NEW DELHI (India CSR): In an era where corporate responsibility is more crucial than ever, Orient Cement Limited (OCL) stands out with its steadfast dedication to societal well-being and sustainable development. For the financial year 2024-25, OCL has made significant strides in its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, investing Rs 5.88 crores to uplift communities and foster inclusive growth. This commitment goes beyond statutory obligations, as the company also dedicated an additional Rs 11.31 crores to vital rural infrastructure development, education, and other community programs, showcasing a profound human-centered approach to nation-building.
Orient Cement’s CSR performance in FY 2025:
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | Orient Cement Limited (OCL) |
| CSR Expenditure (FY 2025) | Rs 5.88 crores |
| Additional Social Investment | Rs 11.31 crores for rural infrastructure, education & welfare |
| Total Community Beneficiaries | Approx. 75,000 people |
| Key Focus Areas | Education, Healthcare, Rural Development, Infrastructure, Sustainability |
| Major Educational Milestone | Devapur school upgraded to CBSE, 10th standard |
| Women Empowered via Literacy Programme | Over 3,600 women under New India Literacy Programme |
| Medical Outreach | 496 senior citizens served, 500 blood donors participated |
| Rural Development Projects | Market yard, 6 borewells, 2 RCC roads in Devapur, roads & community halls |
| Sustainability Action | 1.2 lakh MT waste co-processed, saving 1.47 lakh MT coal |
| Renewable Energy Target | 50% renewable use by 2030 |
| Net Zero Emissions Target | By 2070 |
| CSR Committee Meetings (FY25) | 3 meetings held to oversee and monitor CSR implementation |
| Recent Corporate Development | Acquired by Ambuja Cements (Adani Group) |
A Foundation of Purpose: OCL’s CSR Philosophy
Orient Cement’s CSR policy is deeply rooted in its vision to provide optimum benefits to various deserving sections of society. The company’s efforts are strategically channeled into key areas such as education, healthcare, rural development, and infrastructure enhancement. This integrated approach aligns with OCL’s broader ethos of building a resilient and future-ready organization that honors its heritage and contributes meaningfully to India’s progress. The company operates on the principle that sustainable value creation is inseparable from societal well-being, consistently demonstrating its ethical responsibilities. Its practices are regularly monitored by a dedicated CSR Committee, which met three times in FY 2024-25 to oversee the implementation and recommend projects.
Nurturing Minds: Investments in Quality Education
Education remains a cornerstone of OCL’s CSR efforts, recognized as a powerful catalyst for change. In Devapur, Telangana, the company’s school is now CBSE-accredited up to the 10th standard, featuring modern digital infrastructure, new classrooms, labs, and sports facilities. This initiative ensures a quality educational environment for students from all walks of life. Beyond physical infrastructure, OCL actively supported a government girls’ high school and hostel construction in Chittapur, Karnataka, further expanding educational access. In Jalgaon, the company equipped primary schools with LCD projectors and built essential washrooms and drinking water facilities to improve hygiene and learning conditions. The Nashirabad Public Library, a 108-year-old institution, received vital resources such as reading tables, cupboards, and fans, benefitting approximately 70 students who regularly utilize its facilities. A notable achievement includes the New India Literacy Programme in Devapur, which empowered over 3,600 women by enhancing their craft skills and improving Telugu literacy. These initiatives highlight OCL’s dedication to fostering a strong educational foundation for future generations.
Promoting Well-being: Health and Community Welfare
Orient Cement’s commitment extends to the health and wellness of local communities, with numerous initiatives aimed at improving public health infrastructure and access to medical care. In Chittapur, the company renovated the Government Hospital, significantly enhancing medical services for residents. Free medical camps were regularly organized around plant premises, providing essential healthcare services to villagers. A special health camp in Jalgaon offered free medical tests and medicines for 496 senior citizens, with a remarkable 62% of beneficiaries from vulnerable and marginalized groups. In Devapur, nutrition-focused medical camps were conducted for tribal schoolchildren, addressing critical health needs. Collaborating with the Indian Red Cross Society, OCL organized a blood donation camp that saw the participation of 500 volunteers, demonstrating a strong community spirit. Additionally, the distribution of sanitary pads to high school girls underscores the company’s focus on menstrual hygiene and overall well-being. The company also ensures medical facilities are available within its plants for employees.
Building Stronger Foundations: Rural and Infrastructure Development
Beyond direct social programs, OCL actively champions rural development through robust infrastructure projects. The company has been instrumental in constructing roads, borewells, and community halls in villages surrounding its plants, directly enhancing local infrastructure and connectivity. In Chittapur, a dedicated market yard was developed to support local vendors and hawkers, providing a safer and more organized space for business. To combat water scarcity, particularly during the summer months, six borewells were installed across various villages in Devapur, ensuring access to essential water resources. The construction of two new RCC roads in Devapur village further improved accessibility and safety for the local community. These tangible improvements underscore OCL’s holistic approach to rural upliftment, fostering environments where communities can thrive.
A Holistic Approach: Sustainability and Integration
Orient Cement’s CSR efforts are integrated with its broader sustainability strategy, which aims for Net Zero emissions by 2070 and a target of 50% renewable energy use by 2030. The company’s commitment to a circular economy, evidenced by its significant utilization of fly ash, alternative fuels, and low-grade limestone in cement production, further demonstrates its responsible approach. During FY 2024-25, OCL co-processed 1.2 lakh metric tonnes of waste materials in its kilns, conserving approximately 1.47 lakh metric tonnes of Indian coal. The recent acquisition of Orient Cement Limited by Ambuja Cements Limited, an Adani Group company, is poised to unlock new opportunities for innovation and operational excellence. This strategic synergy is expected to enhance OCL’s market presence and capacity, while also reinforcing its commitment to sustainability by leveraging the Adani Group’s extensive infrastructure in energy, logistics, mining, and digital technologies. The integration means OCL will align even more closely with ambitious sustainability goals, ensuring responsible growth that benefits the planet, uplifts communities, and upholds the highest standards of governance.
Looking Ahead: Continued Impact and Responsible Growth
Orient Cement’s CSR programs are a testament to its philosophy of creating shared value, benefiting approximately 75,000 beneficiaries through its diverse initiatives. The company emphasizes stakeholder engagement, continuously gathering feedback to refine its programs and address community needs effectively. With its robust governance framework, commitment to ethical practices, and proactive community engagement, Orient Cement is poised for continued impactful contributions. The company’s focus on RESQ—Reliability, Environment, Safety, and Quality—serves as its operational compass, guiding every decision and reinforcing its promise to uphold the highest standards for all stakeholders. Through these sustained efforts, Orient Cement not only builds durable structures but also fortifies the social fabric of the nation, one community at a time.
(India CSR)
