Amazon India’s GRC caters to individuals with hearing, visual, and locomotor disabilities, utilizing Amazon’s technology expertise and Sarthak’s experience in disability skill development.
BENGALURU (India CSR): Amazon India is demonstrating its commitment to community service and inclusivity through its annual Global Month of Volunteering (GMV) and ongoing initiatives aimed at empowering people with disabilities (PWDs). Since its launch in December, 2023, Amazon India and Sarthak Education Trust have already trained over 10000 beneficiaries and have provided employment opportunities to over 6000 in the last 6 months, the company informed.
A Global Force for Good
Amazon’s GMV is a worldwide event now in its third year in India, emphasizing education, food security, sustainability, and women empowerment throughout May. This initiative unites Amazon leaders, employees, partners, and customers in collaborative efforts to support impactful causes. With over 150 volunteering opportunities available through partnerships with more than 40 non-profit organizations such as DonateKart, Rosy Blue Foundation, and CRY Foundation, Amazon fosters a culture of community engagement and inclusivity.
CSR: Equitable and compassionate culture for all
Manisha Patil, Amazon India’s CSR Lead – Community Engagement, stated, “Amazon’s Global Month Volunteering cultivates a sense of belonging and unity, ultimately creating a more equitable and compassionate culture for all through embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity. We truly believe that our volunteering efforts underscore our dedication to empowering PWDs and creating a more inclusive society where they are offered opportunities for dignified employment.”
Empowering People with Disabilities
In addition to GMV, Amazon India supports PWDs through the Global Resource Center (GRC), launched in December 2023 in collaboration with Sarthak Education Trust. This center, inaugurated by the Honorable Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, provides specialized training programs, assistive technologies, mentorship, and job placement services aimed at fostering inclusivity and leveraging diverse talents in the workforce.
A Vision for Inclusion and Empowerment
Patil further highlighted the impact of the GRC: “The GRC is a groundbreaking initiative that will empower people with disabilities across India. Investing in training for PWDs unlocks a powerful two-way benefit. For individuals, it equips them with relevant skills, expanding job opportunities and leading to greater financial independence and self-sufficiency. Society as a whole gains as well. By empowering PWDs to actively participate in the workforce, companies like Amazon benefit from a diverse pool of talent with unique perspectives, fostering innovation and creativity.”
Dr. Jitender Aggarwal, Founder & CEO of Sarthak, added, “We are incredibly proud of the progress made by the Global Resource Center in just a few short months. The collaboration between Amazon and Sarthak Education Trust is a powerful example of how businesses and NGOs can work together to empower people with disabilities and foster a more inclusive society.”
Building a Brighter Future for All
The GRC caters to individuals with hearing, visual, and locomotor disabilities, utilizing Amazon’s technology expertise and Sarthak’s experience in disability skill development. The programs offered include capacity building in technology, e-commerce, logistics, and more. The Rozgarsarthi app, a key component of this initiative, connects PWD candidates with job opportunities at Amazon and other organizations, further supporting their integration into the workforce.
Since its launch, the GRC has trained over 10,000 beneficiaries and provided employment to over 6,000 individuals.
Key Facts about Amazon India’s Initiatives
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Global Month of Volunteering 2024 | Focus areas: Education, Food Security, Sustainability, Women Empowerment |
| Partnerships | Over 40 non-profit organizations |
| Volunteering Opportunities | Over 150 across India |
| Global Resource Center (GRC) Launch | December 2023, in collaboration with Sarthak Education Trust |
| Beneficiaries Trained | Over 10,000 since December 2023 |
| Employment Opportunities Created | Over 6,000 in the last 6 months |
(India CSR)
