Tag: CSR initiative

Gemini Edibles & Fats India Ltd celebrates World Environment Day 2024

Hyderabad: 06th June, 2024: Gemini Edibles & Fats India Ltd the makers of Freedom Oil, conducted environment awareness programs on the occasion of World Environment Day

as a part of their CSR initiative. GEF India has implemented significant initiatives aimed at protecting and preserving the environment. These efforts are part of their ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and aligned with global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainability.

gef

GEF India has implemented a series of advanced environmental protection measures to enhance sustainability and reduce its ecological footprint. These initiatives include the Nano Neutralization Process, which significantly lowers water consumption in refining, and the installation of a 3-stage bag filter system at the boiler stack to tackle dust pollution. A rooftop rainwater collection system has been set up to harvest rainwater for process needs, and a sludge drier system at waste points reduces landfill waste. An online effluent monitoring system, connected to the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) site, ensures continuous environmental oversight. Additionally, an elevated effluent treatment system prevents land pollution, while a new Agitated Thin Film Dryer (ATFD) boosts the efficiency of the Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) system. Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) have been fitted to high-rated motors to reduce energy consumption and improve efficiency. A pneumatic ash handling system for boiler ash and a mechanical dust collector in the husk conveying system mitigate air pollution. Finally, thermosiphons have replaced conventional heating systems in edible oil refining to cut fuel consumption, highlighting GEF India’s commitment to sustainable operations and environmental stewardship.

The company had an installation of a Zero Liquid Discharge System (ZLD). This advanced system ensures that all waste water generated in the plant is treated and recycled, leaving zero discharge of liquid waste into the environment. This not only conserves water but also significantly reduces pollution, setting a new standard for environmental responsibility in the industry.

GEF India has developed a robust Green Belt around the plant recognizing the importance of green spaces, Approximately 6,500 saplings have been planted both inside and along the periphery of the facility. Over time, these saplings have matured into flourishing trees, creating a natural barrier that enhances air quality, provides habitat for wildlife, and contributes to the overall aesthetic and ecological health of the area.

According to Mr. P Chandra Shekhara Reddy, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Gemini Edibles & Fats India Ltd, “We at Gemini Edibles & Fats India Ltd are committed to environmental protection and sustainability. We have undertaken several initiatives to preserve the environment and enhance the green belt. By implementing the Zero Liquid Discharge System, expanding our Green Belt, and undertaking land restoration projects, we are not only reducing our ecological footprint but also paving the way for a more sustainable future. We are proud to take these steps and hope to inspire other companies to join us in protecting our planet.”

From Aspiration to Action: ‘Rural Rising’ brings positive change in Wayanad’s Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat, Sulthan Bathery Block, Kerala

Rural Rising Wayanad

Broadcom, under its CSR initiative, in collaboration with NGO United Way of Bengaluru (UWBe) and Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat, proudly announced the official inauguration of the ‘Rural Rising,’ an innovative integrated rural development program at Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat in Sultan Bathery block, Wayanad. The Noolpuzha Gram Panchayat has a population of 14,133. It is the second largest tribal-populated gram panchayat in the state. Recognizing the pressing need for comprehensive interventions, ‘Rural Rising’, an integrated rural rising program, was kickstarted.

Grounded in a meticulous need assessment, the initiative strategically addresses critical needs such as the health and nutritional needs of children through a unique Cooked Meal intervention and early education facilities for children.

Addressing the health and nutritional needs of children, particularly those malnourished and from the tribal communities, the Cooked Meal intervention was conceived to ensure the availability and accessibility of nutritious meals three times a day, six days a week, benefiting 315 children across 26 Anganwadi Centres. Six Community Kitchens have also started in six Anganwadi Centers, involving mothers in food preparation to foster healthier food habits at home.

Fifteen nutrition promoters, serving as influencers, are actively engaged in community mobilization under this initiative. They play a crucial role in conducting awareness sessions for mothers emphasizing the importance of consuming healthy and nutritious meals.

The positive outcome of the Cooked Meal intervention is evident, with a substantial improvement in children who were initially underweight. In September 2023, 79% reached a normal height-to-weight ratio, marking a positive trend with 81% in October and an impressive 85% in November.

Addressing the need to create a conducive early learning environment for children, 26 Anganwadi Centres have been revamped, aligning with ICDS guidelines. The transformation of Anganwadi Centres to safe and conducive learning spaces includes new facilities and services, infrastructure support, and the establishment of play areas.

Recognizing the crucial role of Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs), the ‘Rural Rising’ initiative also focussed on building the capacities of 200 AWWs and AWHs in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) related skills. This is helping to enhance the quality of services at the AWCs and interactions between caregivers and children, making the entire Anganwadi ecosystem child-friendly.

As expressed by one of the retd. Anganwadi Workers, “In my 39 years of service, I have seen many AWCs located in the forest area grapple with challenges. Today, I express heartfelt gratitude for the positive changes in the AWCs – the introduction of play areas and other improvements ensures a nurturing and vibrant environment for children’s growth and well-being. “

For the initiative, a new milestone was achieved today, as one of the refurbished Anganwadi Centres was inaugurated in the presence of Dr. Renu Raj IAS, the District Collector and District Magistrate, who was present at the event. Dr. Raj said, “Ensuring kids aged 0-6 grow up in a safe and nurturing environment is crucial. This early phase is a big chance for positive development. Investing and putting effort into these early years can build the foundation for a thriving society in the next 20 years.”

Other delegates present today included govt. officials from the Women and Child Development Department, representatives of the Panchayat and team from United Way Bengaluru.

“The intervention is designed on a ‘convergence model,’ focussing on the strength of every stakeholder. In partnership with the local administration and our CSR partner Broadcom, this collaborative effort is significantly contributing to SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being and SDG 4 – Quality Education,” said Rajesh Krishnan, CEO, United Way Bengaluru.