For these learners from rural and educationally underserved communities, the examinations mark far more than an academic milestone. They represent a second chance to complete their education, pursue their aspirations, and build a more independent future after having previously dropped out of school.

Through its Pragati program, Educate Girls identifies adolescent girls and young women aged 15–29 who have left school and supports them in re-entering the education system through flexible second-chance learning opportunities. The program is currently implemented in the districts of Dhar, Barwani, Khargone, and Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. Across these four districts, 2,654 learners have been identified, enrolled with MPSOS, and are now taking their Class 10 board examinations.

Working closely with families, communities, local stakeholders, and government partners, Educate Girls has helped these learners overcome barriers to education and return to formal learning. Their participation in the examinations reflects months of preparation, determination, and the transformative impact of providing girls with the opportunity to continue their education.

Sixteen-year-old Nikita, a Pragati learner from Ujjain shared her experience and said, “All the hard work I put in truly paid off in the examination. The learning I received during the preparation camp, along with the guidance and encouragement of the Educate Girls team, helped me prepare well. Today, I have more confidence in myself than ever before.”

Dr. Ramakant Tiwari, Assistant Director, Madhya Pradesh State Open School Education Board (MPSOS), said, “I encourage all learners and their parents to approach these examinations with thorough preparation and complete dedication. Believe in yourselves, remain confident, and give your best.”

Ranjeet Nath, State Lead, Educate Girls, Madhya Pradesh, said, “Every learner appearing for the MPSOS Class 10 board examinations is a reminder that no educational journey is beyond revival when young women are supported with the right opportunities. At Educate Girls, we believe every girl deserves the chance to complete her education and realise her potential. We wish all our learners the very best for their examinations and the future that lies ahead.”

Karnataka/Bengaluru, 8 July 2026: ACC, the cement and building materials company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, along with the Adani Foundation, is empowering rural youth with the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in the defence services.

Shrishail, an 18-year-old from Kundanoor village in Wadi, grew up in a financially constrained household where his father’s daily wage income was barely sufficient to meet basic needs. Limited resources made it difficult for him to access quality training or explore structured career opportunities.

Driven by his aspiration to serve the nation, Shrishail joined the Adani Foundation’s pre-police and army training programme after being mobilised through a community outreach initiative. The programme provided structured physical training, theoretical coaching, mock drills, personality development sessions, and continuous mentorship to prepare candidates for defence recruitment.

Despite initial challenges and lack of access to private coaching, Shrishail remained committed to the rigorous training process. With consistent guidance and dedicated effort, he developed the discipline, physical fitness, and confidence required to compete successfully.

His perseverance paid off with his selection as an Agniveer in the Indian Armed Forces, marking a significant milestone in his journey towards a stable and dignified career.

Shrishail’s journey reflects how Adani Foundation’s focused support is enabling rural youth to transform aspirations into meaningful career opportunities.

For these learners from rural and educationally underserved communities, the examinations mark far more than an academic milestone. They represent a second chance to complete their education, pursue their aspirations, and build a more independent future after having previously dropped out of school.

Through its Pragati program, Educate Girls identifies adolescent girls and young women aged 15–29 who have left school and supports them in re-entering the education system through flexible second-chance learning opportunities. The program is currently implemented in the districts of Dhar, Barwani, Khargone, and Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. Across these four districts, 2,654 learners have been identified, enrolled with MPSOS, and are now taking their Class 10 board examinations.

Working closely with families, communities, local stakeholders, and government partners, Educate Girls has helped these learners overcome barriers to education and return to formal learning. Their participation in the examinations reflects months of preparation, determination, and the transformative impact of providing girls with the opportunity to continue their education.

Sixteen-year-old Nikita, a Pragati learner from Ujjain shared her experience and said, “All the hard work I put in truly paid off in the examination. The learning I received during the preparation camp, along with the guidance and encouragement of the Educate Girls team, helped me prepare well. Today, I have more confidence in myself than ever before.”

Dr. Ramakant Tiwari, Assistant Director, Madhya Pradesh State Open School Education Board (MPSOS), said, “I encourage all learners and their parents to approach these examinations with thorough preparation and complete dedication. Believe in yourselves, remain confident, and give your best.”

Ranjeet Nath, State Lead, Educate Girls, Madhya Pradesh, said, “Every learner appearing for the MPSOS Class 10 board examinations is a reminder that no educational journey is beyond revival when young women are supported with the right opportunities. At Educate Girls, we believe every girl deserves the chance to complete her education and realise her potential. We wish all our learners the very best for their examinations and the future that lies ahead.”

Kuppam (Andhra Pradesh): 06^th July, 2026: The Adani Foundation, the socio-economic and development arm of the Adani Group, has joined the Government of Andhra Pradesh’s (AP) P4 initiative as a Margdarshi (guide and enabling partner) to support Bangaru Kutumbams, or underprivileged families, in Kuppam Mandal of Chittoor district. The partnership will help households improve their incomes through locally relevant enterprises and better access to government welfare programmes.

The P4 (Public-Private-People Partnership) initiative is the AP government’s flagship programme to accelerate poverty reduction by connecting underprivileged families with mentors, institutions and organisations that can help them build sustainable livelihoods.

The initiative, titled “Transforming Lives Together: A P4 Model for Holistic Progress of Bangaru Kutumbams in Kuppam Mandal,” covers all 29 Gram Panchayats and urban clusters. It focuses on enterprise creation, financial literacy and stronger linkages to welfare schemes. Andhra Pradesh Mahila Abhivruddhi Society (APMAS) is the implementation partner.

The Adani Foundation works across nearly 150 villages in AP in the areas of education, health and nutrition, sustainable livelihoods, climate action and community development. The initiative builds on this work by supporting the state’s efforts to help vulnerable households achieve economic self-reliance.

Visiting the programme in Kuppam, his Assembly constituency, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri N. Chandrababu Naidu, handed over sewing machines, portable welding kits, embroidery machines to Bangaru Kutumbams.

The Hon’ble CM praised the Adani Foundation for its holistic development approach, describing it as embodiment of the true spirit of Government’s P4 Zero Poverty Initiative. Addressing the gathering, he said, “I congratulate the Adani Foundation for its commitment to strengthening leadership and promoting sustainable livelihoods for Bangaru Kutumbams. This initiative exemplifies shared social responsibility, creating lasting impact for the community. My sincere appreciation to the Adani Foundation for this exemplary contribution to inclusive development.

In a special message, Dr. Priti Adani, Chairperson, Adani Foundation, said, “Lasting progress begins at the household level. When families have the opportunity, the right support and the confidence to build sustainable livelihoods, they create stronger futures not just for themselves, but for generations to come. Our partnership with the Andhra Pradesh government under the P4 initiative reflects a shared commitment to helping Bangaru Kutumbams become more self-reliant.”

Under the programme, households will receive livelihood assets suited to their skills and local market opportunities. These include kirana stores, livestock, sewing machines and other micro-enterprise support designed to generate sustainable incomes.

Each household will be supported by Bangaru Mitras, trained community mentors who will help prepare business plans, improve financial literacy, develop enterprises and connect beneficiaries with relevant government schemes.

By combining community mentoring, enterprise development and access to public welfare programmes, the initiative aims to help households build sustainable incomes. The model is designed to be scalable and supports AP’s vision of reducing poverty through locally driven solutions that can be replicated across the state.

Karnataka/Bengaluru, 6 July 2026: ACC, along with the Adani Foundation, is helping farmers adopt sustainable agricultural practices and improve their livelihood security through community-focused development initiatives in and around Thondebhavi.

Agriculture had become increasingly difficult to sustain for Harish, a farmer from Tapasmakanahalli village. Cultivating marigold on his one-acre farm required annual investments of nearly Rs. 1.5 lakh. However, labour shortages, rising input costs and fluctuating market demand made returns on such a heavy investment uncertain. With his income heavily dependent on seasonal and festival demand, financial stability often remained out of reach.

Seeking a more sustainable alternative, Harish participated in an Adani Foundation-supported initiative promoting drumstick leaf cultivation. As part of the programme, farmers received exposure and training on cultivation practices, income potential and market opportunities. This initiative was designed not only to support individual farmers but also to encourage the wider adoption of drumstick cultivation, with plans to scale the model across more than 300 acres in the region.

Today, Harish has transitioned to drumstick leaf cultivation with approximately 7,000 plants on his farm. The crop requires relatively low maintenance and is supported by an assured buyback arrangement with Nora Agro Tech, reducing market uncertainty. His annual production is projected at 2,240 kg, generating revenue of approximately Rs. 2.24 lakh. With cultivation costs estimated at just Rs. 26,000, this model is expected to deliver a net annual income of nearly Rs. 1.98 lakh while providing a productive lifespan of up to 15 years.

For Harish, this shift represents a pathway to greater income stability and long-term financial security. For Adani Foundation, this initiative reflects the importance of supporting farmers with sustainable solutions that strengthen rural livelihoods, improve resilience and create opportunities for lasting economic progress.

Poornima holds profound spiritual significance in the Hindu calendar, symbolizing peace, prosperity, and selfless service. Aligned with these timeless values, Bikanervala Bangalore embraced the sacred principle of “Annadanam Mahadanam”—the belief that feeding the hungry is the highest form of charity—by serving freshly prepared, nutritious meals to more than 500 underprivileged people.

Nourishing the Body and Soul:

The food distribution drive, which took place between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM, saw a joyful turnout of poor women, children & the old. Prioritizing hygiene, quality, and taste, the culinary experts at Bikanervala curated a traditional, wholesome menu that resonated deeply with the values of the company.

The beneficiaries were served a hearty spread consisting of fluffy, golden Puris, a rich and savory Mixed Vegetable Curry, a fragrant Vegetable Pulao accompanied by a refreshing Pachadi and a traditional sweet finale of rich Besan Chakki along with Clean, packaged Drinking Water

Reflecting on the success and emotional impact of the initiative, Mr. Pramod Murarka,  Director of Bikanervala Bangalore, stated:

“At Bikanervala, our relationship with society extends far beyond serving quality food through our outlets. We believe in serving humanity with dignity and care. Poornima is an occasion of gratitude and reflection, making it the perfect time to give back to the community that has always supported us. Witnessing the smiles on the faces of over 500 people today reinforces our belief that when food is served with love, it nourishes not only the body but also the soul. We are deeply grateful to Sri Salasar Balaji Seva Samiti for partnering with us to make this noble endeavor possible.”

Deepening Community Impact

The Annadanam Seva successfully achieved its core objectives of reinforcing Bikanervala’s long-term dedication to social responsibility and fostering a culture of collective kindness. By bridging corporate resources with grassroots community needs, the event significantly bolstered the ongoing social welfare efforts of the Sri Salasar Balaji Seva Samiti.

Both organizations worked in seamless coordination to ensure that the event was conducted smoothly, respecting the dignity of every single beneficiary. This drive marks another milestone in Bikanervala Bangalore’s overarching vision to create a meaningful, positive impact on society, proving that a business truly thrives when it uplifts the community around it.

As part of the programme, the commemorative Shilaphalakam was jointly unveiled by the dignitaries, senior officials from the Port and Adani Foundation, in the presence of village leaders and community members. On the same occasion, two RO (Reverse Osmosis) water plants were inaugurated at GVMC Ground, Gangavaram, and ZPHS School, Gangavaram. These facilities are expected to enhance access to safe and potable drinking water for the local community and school children.

The port expanded its clean water access network in nearby villages, including Jalari Pallipalem and Dibbapalem, ensuring steady supply of potable water to fishermen and local families. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from village representatives and community members, reflecting Adani Gangavaram Port’s continued commitment to community development and social welfare.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Palla Srinivasa Rao, Hon’ble MLA, Gajuwaka Constituency, emphasized that community development is possible through improved infrastructure and education. He further reiterated the importance of strengthening educational and infrastructure facilities in coordination with the Government of Andhra Pradesh and corporate partners such as Adani Foundation.

Speaking on the initiatives, Adani Gangavaram Port Limited management said, “We are proud to contribute meaningfully to the communities around us. Whether it is road safety or healthcare, we are dedicated to building a safer, healthier society through sustained CSR efforts. We thank our teams and community partners for their unwavering support.”

Bengaluru, 24 June 2026: ACC, along with the Adani Foundation is creating pathways to livelihood and economic independence for persons with disabilities through its Adani Skill Development Centre (ASDC) at its Thondebhavi plant.

For years, Channamma K.S., 36-year-old woman with a physical disability and speech disorder, carried a determination that far exceeded the opportunities available to her. She had worked hard to complete a Bachelor of Arts degree, hoping education would open the door to meaningful employment. Yet despite her qualifications, finding a job proved to be difficult.

At home, Channamma relied on the support of her family. Her father worked as a farmer and her brother earned a living as a daily wage labourer. While they stood by her through every challenge, she wanted the chance to contribute financially and build a life defined by independence.

Her turning point came when she enrolled in the Saksham programme at the Adani Skill Development Centre (ASDC). Over the course of three months, she received training designed to strengthen her employability, workplace readiness and confidence. This programme equipped her with practical skills while helping her navigate the challenges that had previously limited her access to opportunities.

As her capabilities grew, so did her confidence. With the support of the programme and guidance from the ASDC team, Channamma successfully secured employment as a back-end executive in Marathahalli. Today, she earns Rs. 15,000 per month and receives free food and accommodation, providing her with both financial security and professional stability.

Reflecting on her journey, Channamma says, “ASDC gave me the skills and confidence I needed.”

For Channamma, this job along with a steady income is a testament to her resilience, determination and belief in her own potential. Adani Foundation at ACC Thondebhavi, demonstrates how targeted skill development and inclusive opportunities can help individuals overcome barriers and participate more fully in the workforce.

एक छह साल की बच्ची, जो ठीक से खेल भी नहीं पाती थी। थोड़ी दूर चलने पर ही हांफने लगती थी और जिसका बचपन बार-बार की बीमारियों के साये में सिमट रहा था—आज वह स्कूल जा रही है, सहेलियों के साथ हंस-खेल रही है। यह कहानी मध्य प्रदेश के सुदूर सिंगरौली जिले के सरई गाँव की रहने वाली मासूम प्रांजलि प्रजापति की है। प्रांजलि की यह नई जिंदगी केवल एक बच्ची की रिकवरी नहीं, बल्कि कोल इंडिया की अनुषंगी कंपनी नर्दन कोलफील्ड्स लिमिटेड (एनसीएल) के उस अटूट संकल्प की बानगी है, जो ‘नन्हा सा दिल’ कार्यक्रम के जरिए सुदूर ग्रामीण और आदिवासी अंचलों में जीवन का उजियारा फैला रहा है।

अज्ञानता का अंधेरा और बेबसी के आंसू

प्रांजलि के पिता संतोष प्रजापति पेशे से किसान हैं। महीने में बमुश्किल 5,000 से 6,000 रुपये कमा पाने वाले इस परिवार के लिए जिंदगी हमेशा से एक कड़ा संघर्ष रही है। प्रांजलि जब भी बीमार होती, माता-पिता उसे स्थानीय स्वास्थ्य केंद्रों में ले जाते। लेकिन अंदरूनी इलाकों में उन्नत चिकित्सा सुविधाओं और विशेषज्ञों की कमी के कारण कोई यह नहीं बता पा रहा था कि आखिर इस मासूम की जान पर क्या आफत है।

ग्रामीण भारत के अधिकांश हिस्सों की तरह संतोष का परिवार भी ‘जन्मजात हृदय रोग’ (Congenital Heart Disease – CHD) जैसे गंभीर शब्द से पूरी तरह अनजान था। जब बीमारी का ही पता न हो, तो महानगर के किसी बड़े अस्पताल में जाकर लाखों का इलाज कराने की बात सोचना भी इन ग्रामीणों के लिए एक डरावने सपने जैसा था। बेबसी इस कदर हावी थी कि उम्मीदें दम तोड़ चुकी थीं और आँखों के आँसू भी सूख गए थे।

जब गाँव पहुंची उम्मीद की ‘संजीवनी’

कहानी में मोड़ तब आया जब एनसीएल की ‘नन्हा सा दिल’ टीम राष्ट्रीय बाल स्वास्थ्य कार्यक्रम (आरबीएसके) के कर्मियों के साथ सरई गाँव में बाल हृदय जांच शिविर लगाने पहुँची। स्क्रीन के दौरान डॉक्टरों को प्रांजलि के दिल में कुछ गड़बड़ी का अंदेशा हुआ। शुरुआती झिझक के बाद, जब कार्यक्रम के समन्वयकों ने संतोष को समझाया, तो वे प्रांजलि को पास के ही सामुदायिक स्वास्थ्य केंद्र (सीएचसी) देवसर में आयोजित ‘इको कैंप’ में ले गए।

वहाँ श्री सत्य साईं संजीवनी अस्पताल के कार्डियोलॉजिस्ट ने जब प्रांजलि का इकोकार्डियोग्राम (Echocardiogram) किया, तो कड़वा सच सामने आया—मासूम के दिल में छेद था।

मुफ़्त इलाज, मुफ़्त सफर: ‘नन्हा सा दिल’ ने संभाली जिम्मेदारी

दिल में छेद की बात सुनते ही माता-पिता के पैरों तले जमीन खिसक गई। लेकिन इसी हताशा के बीच एनसीएल के ‘नन्हा सा दिल’ प्रोजेक्ट के समन्वयकों ने उन्हें संभाला। उन्होंने परिवार को भरोसा दिलाया कि:

“पैसों की चिंता बिल्कुल मत कीजिए। आपकी बेटी को पूरी तरह स्वस्थ करके घर लौटाने की जिम्मेदारी अब हमारी है।”

इसके बाद का सफर किसी चमत्कार से कम नहीं था। सिंगरौली के इस इंटीरियर कोयला बेल्ट से लेकर हरियाणा के पलवल स्थित श्री सत्य साईं संजीवनी अस्पताल तक का पूरा सफर बेहद व्यवस्थित था। काउंसलिंग, आने-जाने का सफर, रहने-खाने की व्यवस्था, सर्जरी और ऑपरेशन के बाद की देखभाल (Follow-up Care)—सब कुछ एनसीएल के सहयोग से पूरी तरह निःशुल्क प्रबंधित किया गया।

कोल् बेल्ट में जागा अटूट विश्वास, बढ़ी जागरूकता

आज प्रांजलि पूरी तरह स्वस्थ है और उसका सामान्य बचपन लौट आया है। लेकिन यह बदलाव सिर्फ प्रांजलि तक सीमित नहीं है। एनसीएल की इस अनूठी पहल ने सिंगरौली के ग्रामीण क्षेत्रों में एक बड़ा सामाजिक बदलाव लाया है:

भ्रम और डर का खात्मा: पहले ग्रामीण बच्चे के दिल की बीमारी को लाइलाज मानकर भाग्य के भरोसे छोड़ देते थे, लेकिन अब वे जांच के लिए आगे आ रहे हैं।

अटूट ग्रामीण विश्वास: सुदूर गाँवों के लोगों में अब यह भरोसा बैठ गया है कि अगर बच्चे के दिल में कोई दिक्कत है, तो एनसीएल और साईं संजीवनी उनके साथ खड़े हैं।

द्वार पर विशेषज्ञ सुविधाएं: कॉर्पोरेट सामाजिक उत्तरदायित्व (CSR) के तहत अब अति-आधुनिक कार्डियक स्क्रीनिंग ग्रामीण और जनजातीय क्षेत्रों के दरवाजे तक पहुँच रही है।

प्रांजलि जैसी सैकड़ों मुस्कुराती जिंदगियां इस बात का प्रमाण हैं कि कोल इंडिया की अनुषंगी कंपनियां सिर्फ कोयला निकालकर देश को रोशन नहीं कर रही हैं, बल्कि ‘नन्हा सा दिल’ जैसी पहलों से देश के भविष्य को भी एक स्वस्थ और सुरक्षित धड़कन दे रही हैं।

@CoalIndiaHQ (Coal India Limited)

@NCL_Singrauli (Northern Coalfields Limited)

@MinistryOfCoal (Ministry of Coal, Government of India)

#CoalIndia #NCL #NanhaSaDil #CorporateSocialResponsibility #CSRIndia #RuralHealthcare #CancerScreening #Singrauli #PublicSectorExcellence