Vedanta Championed the Cause of Differently Abled at Jharsuguda, Odisha

IndiaCSR News Network

JHARSUGUDA: In the continued commitment of giving back to the society through its community development programmes, Vedanta’s Aluminium & Power business in Jharsuguda today reached out at the district level to provide much needed free of cost artificial limb ‘Jaipur Foot’ support to 44 beneficiaries.

The program was partnered by Bhagwan Mahavir Bikalang Sahayata Samiti (BMBSS.) and with active support of District administration through the District Social Service Office.

The three day workshop which started with a district wide campaign and screening camp on 29 and 30 March 2016 culminated on April 9, 2016 with an assistance ceremony organised at Satsang Bhawan.

The Chief Guest Bibhuti Bhusan Patnaik, District Magistrate & Collector of Jharsuguda and Abhijit Pati, CEO, Aluminium Business, Vedanta Limited graced the ceremony in the presence of Kamal Poddar, MD, BMBSS.

The program evoked emotive appreciation from the beneficiaries and guests who welcomed the move by Vedanta. Gokul Patel of Debadihi village, who lost both his legs to an unfortunate railway accident was the first recipient of the limb on the occasion and was supported with symbolic gesture of limb fitting by District Collector, standing on his feet post correction. Filled with emotion Mr. Patel said “ I lost all hope 3 years ago and, today I thank Vedanta for making this day come true for me. I see a future today as I am standing again’.

Speaking on the occasion Patnaik, District Magistrate & Collector of Jharsuguda urged corporate houses to emulate such models of collaboration and extend urgent support to needy beneficiaries while partnering the government.

Abhijit Pati mentioned that Vedanta remains committed to the critical needs of the community despite business adversities. He assured that Vedanta is ready to work as an equal partner with government to explore sustainable livelihood models to provide skill development training and livelihood for differently abled and their families.

Poddar commended the efforts of Vedanta and expressed satisfaction for partnering of all support to their core cause and assured cooperation in future at a broader scale. Also present on the occasion were Mr. Dilip Ranjan Sahoo , Head Business HR , Aluminium Business, citizens of Jharsuguda, Vedanta employee volunteers and the families of the beneficiaries.