CII KARNATAKA CSR CONCLAVE 2024 – A Decade of CSR in Karnataka; Learning from the Past; Shaping the Future
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Karnataka CSR Conclave, held on November 25, 2024, themed: “A Decade of Learning, A Future of Impact: Shaping the Trajectory of CSR.” The event brought together industry leaders, changemakers, and CSR personnel to foster meaningful progress and explore transformative strategies, marking a significant step toward driving impactful societal change.
It was a profound honour to have our revered founder of the Sri Sathya Sai Annapoorna Trust, Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai, grace the CII Karnataka Annual Conclave 2024. His presence was both inspiring and deeply significant.
Sadguru Ji, delivered an inspiring address as the special guest of honour of the event, emphasizing the power of partnerships and collaboration to address societal challenges. He reminded everyone that “the ability to respond to the needs of society is true responsibility.”
He shared transformative examples of systemic interventions in healthcare, education, and nutrition—from fortified morning meals benefiting millions of children to empowering organic farmers by integrating millet-based nutrition into school programs. He also stressed the urgent need to address gender disparity by providing free higher education for rural girls, unlocking untapped economic and social potential.
In his closing remarks, with great reverence to the wisdom of the Upanishads, Sadguru shared a profound message, stating: “May all be happy, may all be healthy, may no one experience sorrow.”
It was a true call to action for all industries and organizations to foster sustainable impact through CSR initiatives.
Among participants were distinguished leaders from renowned organizations such as Hitachi, Biocon Foundation, Embassy Group, GRAAM, United Efforts, Volvo, NIMHANS, and others, many who took part in panel discussions and addressed the gathered audience, offering valuable insights.
In one of the panel discussions on ‘Education & Skilling,’ the role of CSR in promoting digital literacy, improving infrastructure in rural areas, and providing skills and inclusive education for disadvantaged sections of society was thoughtfully explored.
Sri Anand, Executive Secretary & Trustee of Sri Sathya Sai Annapoorna Trust, during the discussion, shared insightful thoughts on the importance of nutrition. He recounted a touching story from a nutrition drive at a school, where children were unable to see the board due to poor vision. After an eye screening, it was discovered that a few children had eyesight issues. Essilor generously provided spectacles, and the touching moment when one child, who had never seen his mother, experienced the joy of seeing her for the first time, deeply moved the entire team.
Sri Anand emphasized the importance of morning nutrition, highlighting that if adults struggle with hunger, how can young children who are 8 or 10 years old even cope?
He shared a simple calculation of cost per child over 10 years: providing morning nutrition at Rs. 2 per day for 250 school days over 10 years would cost just Rs. 5000 per child. This small investment not only improves health but also reduces future government healthcare costs.
He urged parents present during the session and outside to educate children on saving and to consider visiting government schools with them, where children will have first hand experience of interacting & gain insights.
The CII Karnataka CSR Conclave 2024 concluded with a resounding call to action for all stakeholders to embrace collective responsibility and drive meaningful change.
