Mumbai, October 16, 2025: Cosmo Foundation, the community outreach arm of Cosmo First Ltd., in a significant display of its commitment to climate action, has launched a large-scale “Miyawaki & Fruit Bearing Forestry” plantation drive in collaboration with the 25 Battalion Border Security Force (BSF) at its Chhawla campus in New Delhi. The initiative marks yet another major milestone in creating an extensive green cover within the BSF campus, strengthening Cosmo Foundation’s continued dedication to environmental sustainability.

The post Cosmo Foundation and Border Security Force (BSF) Join Hands in Expanding Delhi’s Green Cover with a 15,000 -Miywaki & Fruit bearing Forestry appeared first on newsmantra.in l Latest news on Politics, World, Bollywood, Sports, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Trending news | News Mantra.

At the heart of this journey lies Balmitra, an initiative that trains and deploys local educated women as educators within their own communities. These Balmitras serve not only as teachers but as role models and catalysts of change – bridging the gap between home and school, tradition and progress. They engage with families to dismantle deep-rooted biases, ensuring that every girl child has the right and opportunity to learn.

To create a more inclusive and enabling environment, the Foundation has also introduced a series of interventions – ranging from menstrual hygiene awareness programmes and gender-segregated sanitation facilities in schools to self-defence training that builds both physical and mental resilience. Recognising that education must translate into opportunity, Cosmo Foundation also equips girls with digital literacy, English fluency, and technical skills in emerging sectors such as electric vehicle maintenance and automobile servicing – preparing them to enter and thrive in industries traditionally dominated by men.

Stories like that of Saleha Malek, an 11th-grade student from Karjan, stand testament to this change. Once limited by rural realities, Saleha is now a self-reliant young entrepreneur whose papercraft business supports her education and household, thanks to the Foundation’s mentorship and exposure programmes.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Yamini Kumar Jaipuria, Managing Trustee, Cosmo Foundation and Whole-time Director (Corporate Strategy, ESG and CSR), Cosmo First, said “Over the years, we have seen that true empowerment begins when change is nurtured from within the community. Our girls are not just beneficiaries of education; they are drivers of transformation. When a girl learns to use a computer, speaks English with confidence, or repairs an electric vehicle, she’s not just breaking barriers – she’s redefining what’s possible for an entire village. At Cosmo Foundation, we believe our mission is complete only when every girl has the tools and confidence to write her own story. Because when you educate a girl, you empower a family, a community, and the future. Every girl deserves the chance to rise, shine, and lead.”

Through its sustained initiatives, Cosmo Foundation continues to nurture grassroots change, creating an ecosystem where girls in rural India are equipped not only to dream but to achieve – becoming the architects of a more equitable tomorrow.

The post Cosmo Foundation Marks Girl Child Day by Strengthening Grassroots and Building Future-Ready Rural Girls appeared first on newsmantra.in l Latest news on Politics, World, Bollywood, Sports, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Trending news | News Mantra.

The ‘One Day One Story’ campaign, running from September 7-15, will conduct creative storytelling sessions for 2,000 rural children across Gujarat and Maharashtra, reinforcing the Foundation’s commitment to making quality education accessible to underserved communities. Addressing the critical gap in rural education, the campaign will encourage children from these areas to create a habit of reading by providing access to stories in the language familiar to them such as Gujarati, Hindi, Marathi and English. The initiative features two carefully selected books for the 2025 campaign – ‘I am Not a Cat’ and ‘Surki & Tirki’, which will be distributed free of cost to participating children.

Welcoming this partnership, Ms Yamini Jaipuria, Managing Trustee Cosmo Foundation and Whole-time Director (Corporate Strategy, ESG and CSR), Cosmo First, said, “Every child has the right to enjoy good stories in a language close to their culture. This campaign aligns perfectly with our 3E philosophy as we continue to ensure quality education imparted to students and the change makers of tomorrow. When we provide children with culturally relevant content, we’re not just teaching them to read – we’re helping them discover the joy of learning and opening doors to endless possibilities.”

The ‘One Day One Story’ campaign employs both virtual and offline delivery methods to maximise accessibility. Additionally, Cosmo Foundation’s approach of building grassroots ownership rather than providing one-way assistance, the campaign involves employees, local teachers, and community members in its implementation. This collaborative model ensures that the initiative resonates with local communities and creates lasting impact beyond the campaign period.

The campaign builds upon Cosmo Foundation’s extensive educational initiatives, which have already demonstrated significant impact in rural communities. The Foundation’s existing programs include the Cosmo Digi Pathshaala, Basic English Fluency Development, among others which has engaged students through AI-powered English videos and digital literacy content. Further, the comprehensive teacher training programs have empowered local educators to deliver both English and computer skills instruction.

As Cosmo Foundation continues to evolve, the organization envisions scaling its impact across more states through strategic partnerships with government institutions, educational bodies, and NGOs. The ‘One Day One Story’ campaign serves as a model for how technology-enabled, community-driven initiatives can create sustainable change while honouring local culture and ownership.

The post Cosmo Foundation and Pratham Book Champions Join Forces for International Literacy Day Campaign appeared first on newsmantra.in l Latest news on Politics, World, Bollywood, Sports, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Trending news | News Mantra.

Bengaluru, 15 July, 2025: On the occasion of World Youth Skills Day 2025, Cosmo Foundation, Cosmo First Ltd.’s community outreach arm, reaffirms its dedication to raising a generation that is prepared for the future and has access to technology. For more than 15 years, Cosmo Foundation has been working at grass root level to address digital divide and open up new opportunities for young people, particularly those from underprivileged and rural areas. Cosmo Foundation’s goal to not only provide technical education but also to foster self-reliance, inclusivity, and confidence in India’s youth is in line with this year’s UN theme, “Youth Empowerment through AI and Digital Skills.”

For Cosmo Foundation, this day is a celebration of each person who has changed their life via education, rather than just a symbolic observance. With an emphasis on digital literacy, language proficiency, life skills, and vocational training, Cosmo Foundation has impacted over 50,000 youth in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Delhi since starting its first digital skilling initiative in 2008. The Foundation’s programs aim to give students and youths the skills they need to succeed in the cutthroat, technologically advanced world of today, especially those from marginalised, remote, and tribal communities.

Cosmo Foundation has incorporated AI literacy and sophisticated digital tools into its training modules in response to the growing importance of artificial intelligence. In addition to e-commerce, digital payments, and social media management, young people are now exposed to platforms like Canva, ChatGPT, Gemini, Google Workspace and cybersecurity fundamentals. These AI-powered interventions are combined with fundamental abilities in communication, critical thinking, and computer literacy to make sure students are not only tech-savvy but also prepared for the workplace. Even in areas with poor connectivity, thousands of students can access education through programs like Cosmo Digi Pathshala, a WhatsApp-based learning platform.

Holistic development is the base of the Cosmo Foundation’s work. The Digital Skill Building Program, the Basic English Fluency Program, and vocational programs like the Auto-EV Technician Training and Nari Ki Sawari – a mobility program that teaches women to drive are some of the main initiatives run by Cosmo Foundation. All programs incorporate life skills like time management, leadership, etiquette, financial literacy, and hygiene awareness in addition to digital education. These multifaceted services have a particularly positive effect on women and girls, enabling them to contribute to their communities with confidence.

“World Youth Skills Day is more than a day of recognition – it is a celebration of potential,” said Ms. Yamini Jaipuria, Managing Trustee of Cosmo Foundation, in her remarks on the occasion. “At Cosmo Foundation, we think that the youth should be prepared to lead India’s digital and entrepreneurial future, not just to participate. We take pride in giving them access to contemporary resources, principles, essential skills, and most importantly the opportunities, that are shaping their lives for today and the future.”

Cosmo Foundation has seen thousands of inspiring changes over the years. Once unable to pay for private computer lessons, Ajay Vasava from the Gujarat village of Methi received training through Cosmo’s free digital education program. He now operates a digital service center in his village and oversees IT operations for retail establishments. After finishing the Foundation’s EV Technician Course in Aurangabad, Anisha Suradkar’s life took a significant turn. She now makes INR 15,000 a month working at Bajaj Auto, providing for her whole family and acting as an inspiration to others in her community. Similarly, Sajiya Bapal, also benefitted from Cosmo’s English Tutor YouTube content to pass the IELTS with a 7-band score, and now headed to the UK for her master’s degree in accounting.

“Since our very inception, we have focussed on upskilling the youth and the communities. For us at Cosmo Foundation, we have seen firsthand the impact of these skilling programs and access to digital skills in shaping the future of the youth and turning them into confident individuals. We believe that every village in India has untapped potential, and it is for us to identify these gaps and create opportunities for the youth and take India forward with new talents,” said Ms. Mamta Baxi, Head of CSR, Cosmo Foundation.

Cosmo Foundation’s work has a noticeable effect on socioeconomic and educational results. While enrollment in government schools has increased, especially among girls, school dropout rates have decreased from 35% to just 2% in areas where Cosmo Foundation operates. Young people with trainings from Cosmo have found work as service center managers, teachers, nurses, HR executives, and data entry operators. Currently, almost 34% of beneficiaries work in the public or private sector, and another 18% have started their own businesses in industries like content creation, e-commerce, and digital design. Additionally, more than 80 women have been able to secure employment in electric vehicle companies thanks to vocational training, with monthly salaries ranging from INR 15,000 to INR 29,000.

With a core beneficiary age group of 6 to 24 years old, Cosmo Foundation’s programs has positively impacted over 68,000 students across 155 villages and 55 government schools. Learning is hyperlocal, inclusive, and sustainable – a result of Cosmo Foundation’s cadre of community-based educators and digital facilitators, which includes trained youth and local women.

Looking ahead, Cosmo Foundation is marking World Youth Skills Day 2025 with workshops and events that further elevate digital learning. In Vadodara, a virtual session on “Leveraging AI for Academic Excellence and Professional Growth” is being hosted in collaboration with Navrachna University, while a STEM awareness workshop for rural girls is being conducted in partnership with FICCI FLO.

Cosmo Foundation continues to work towards inclusive progress with each educated student, motivated educator, and strong girl – one in which young people from the most remote regions of India are not only armed with knowledge, and required skills, but also with the self-assurance to direct their own lives and become change agents for the community.

The post Cosmo Foundation Champions Youth Skills for a Brighter, AI-Ready Tomorrow appeared first on newsmantra.in l Latest news on Politics, World, Bollywood, Sports, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Trending news | News Mantra.

Bengaluru, October 21 2024: Cosmo Foundation, a CSR initiative of Cosmo First today launched a major environmental sustainability initiative with a Miyawaki Tree Plantation Drive at the BSF Campus, in Gurugram. The event, which was inaugurated by Shri Daljit Singh Chawdhary, IPS, Director General Border Security Force (BSF), marks another significant step in the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to environmental conservation.

The plantation drive took place at the 95 Bn BSF Campus, Bhondsi, Sohna Road, Gurugram, Haryana. The initiative aims to plant over 15,000 trees using the renowned Miyawaki method, known for creating dense, self-sustaining urban forests and makes green coverage of 5500 square meter of land.

On the occasion of this plantation drive with the BSF, Mr Ashok Jaipuria, Chairman and Managing Director, Cosmo First said, “Sustainability is at the heart of our operations at Cosmo First. We utilise renewable energy and are increasing our capacity to 70% in this front. Additionally, our efforts to enhance product efficiency, reduce harmful emissions and optimize operations and supply chain efficiency not only benefit the environment but also bolster our business. Thus, the plantation drive today gives an impetus to our unwavering commitment towards safeguarding our environment and protecting our vital biodiversity.”

The date of the event, October 19th, holds special significance as it marks the death anniversary of Late Shri Ashwini Kumar, Padma Bhushan, who retired as a Director General of BSF and father of Mrs. Yamini Jaipuria, Managing Trustee, Cosmo Foundation.  

“We are dedicating this plantation drive in the memory of my father Ashwini Kumar. His commitment to public service and love for nature inspires our work at Cosmo Foundation. Furthermore, this initiative represents our continued dedication to environmental sustainability and community engagement. By partnering with BSF, we’re creating green spaces and fostering a sense of environmental responsibility in our community,” said Mrs Yamini Jaipuria, Managing Trustee, Cosmo Foundation.

This latest drive builds upon Cosmo Foundation’s successful track record in environmental conservation, following a previous plantation initiative that also saw more than 15,000 native saplings being planted and created Miyawaki Forest with Indian Army at Delhi. The Miyawaki method, known for growing forests 10 times faster than conventional techniques, will help create a dense, native forest that supports local biodiversity. 

“This is an excellent initiative by the Cosmo Foundation to plant saplings and promote environmental sustainability. I truly believe we are making a tangible impact today and setting a positive example for future generations,” said Shri Daljit Singh Chawdhary, IPS, Director General, Border Security Force (BSF).

The event underscores the Foundation’s long-term commitment to environmental sustainability and its vision of creating lasting green impact in the region and honours the legacy of former IPS officer Shri Ashwini Kumar.

This plantation initiative witnessed the attendance of the Commandant and staff of BSF, retired IPS officers, family of Late Shri Ashwini Kumar, senior employees of Cosmo First, and students of Vidya School, which provides holistic education and life skills to children from slum areas with its state-of-the-art classrooms and curricula, along with students from Jamia Hamdard University who participated and pledged to nurture Mother Earth by planting saplings.

To date, the foundation has planted 1 lakh saplings, including fruit trees with local farmers in Vadodara and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar in Aurangabad, a Miyawaki forest, and a biodiversity hub in New Delhi and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad), respectively. This massive effort has created green cover over 168 acres of land, promoted biodiversity, strengthened the ecosystem, improved air quality, and educated on scientific farming practices to improve farmers’ livelihood.

The foundation has also developed and maintained green spaces under the Karjan flyover at National Highway No. 8 and the Aurangabad Airport, highlighting its commitment to creating sustainable urban environments. Substantial investment is made by creating rainwater harvesting systems and plantation drives with various government schools. Alongside its environmental protection programs, Cosmo Foundation is actively involved in education, health, and sanitation initiatives, demonstrating its holistic approach to community development and sustainable living.

The entire Project of Cosmo Tree Plantation Drive is implemented by a technical partner – Prayas Youth Foundation, which has vast experience and commitment to strengthening the green environment.

The post Cosmo Foundation launches large-scale Miyawaki Forest initiative with BSF, dedicates plantation drive to Late Shri Ashwini Kumar, former DG, BSF  appeared first on newsmantra.in l Latest news on Politics, World, Bollywood, Sports, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Trending news | News Mantra.

The drive witnessed enthusiastic participation from employees of Cosmo First, local corporates, youths, and community members. This 100% voluntary blood donation drive, aimed to inspire individuals to follow the spirit of Seva (selfless service) and Sahyog (cooperation).

Along with it Cosmo Foundation organized massive awareness drive across villages in Vadodara and Chatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad, Maharashtra) focused on demystifying myths related to blood donation. The organization campaigned on ‘Give blood, Give Plazma, Share Life’.

Speaking on the initiative, Ms Yamini Jaipuria, Managing Trustee, Cosmo Foundation said, “20 years ago, the World Health Organisation (WHO) established World Blood Donor Day to honour Karl Landsteiner’s discovery of safe blood transfusions, ensuring more lives are saved. Through this blood donation drive, Cosmo Foundation is proud to contribute to the noble cause in saving lives and promoting a healthier society.”

Nagendra Sharma, Senior Manager, Production, Cosmo First, Karjan, said “I feel humbled to donate blood. I am a consistent donor for last ten years. Thanks to Cosmo First for giving us this opportunity. I am happy that it is going to help someone in need and will save life.”

Beyond the blood drive, previously, Cosmo Foundation extended their care by distributing 4,000 blankets and meals to patients in Delhi hospitals, including Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and others. Demonstrating their commitment to environmental sustainability, Cosmo Foundation has also planted over one lakh trees across India through their ‘Go Green Initiative.’

Cosmo Foundation’s dedication goes beyond healthcare., the foundation provided digital skills, English communication skills, life skills to 65000 rural children and youth, Rainwater harvesting in rural schools and livelihood support 1000 women. Our CSR programs are implemented in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi and Madhya Pradesh positively impacted seven lakh people over the years. These initiatives exemplify the foundation’s commitment to improving lives through education, health, women’s empowerment and environmental programs.

The post Gifting New Life: Cosmo Foundation Thank Donors for Selfless Blood Donation appeared first on newsmantra.in l Latest news on Politics, World, Bollywood, Sports, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Trending news | News Mantra.