Biswanath Sinha

Most useful contemporary Course to strengthen the CSR ecosystem

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Alert: Request for Proposals for Funding Projects in the focus area of Environment & Sustainability- Mangrove Restoration About the opportunity: SBI Foundation hereby invites proposals seeking funding under SBIF CONSERW: for restoration of mangroves in the coastal belts of India. The budget for a proposal should be in the range of Rs.1.00 Cr to Rs. 4.50 Cr. for a support period ranging from 2 to 3 years. Last Date and Time for submission of proposals via email - 25th May 2024 Scope of work: includes the following -         Baseline / study – Conduct baseline study of the potential mangrove restoration sites. -         Identification and finalization of land – Finalization of land for the restoration activities. -         Government approvals – Obtain necessary approvals from government and local authorities for restoration activities. -         Plantation and gap filling activities - Plantation and re plantation of mangroves and other similar shrubs in the coastal belt to keep the coastal ecosystem sustained. -         Partnership and Liaison – To establish partnerships for knowledge sharing with active players or government organizations working for the restoration of mangroves. -         Other activities – Other activities included scoping study in other geographies, mid line or end line study of the project, livelihood activities etc. Locations: Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka,Lakshadweep, Maharashtra, Odisha and West Bengal Eligibility Criteria -         The NGO should have a minimum of 5 years of experience in case of Tree Plantation proposals and should have a presence in the proposed state. -         The NGOs having demonstrated capability to improve measurable outcomes to ensure effectiveness and efficiency of the intervention will be preferred. -         The agency must have an in-house team for project implementation, with more than 5 permanent employees -         The NGO must have completed at least 3 assignments/projects of a similar nature funded by a Public sector/Govt. Organizations/Central/State government authority/ Foundations. -         Annual cumulative revenue of the organization for the last 3 financial years should be more than 5.00 Crores. Note: RFP document is attached Disclaimer: Sharing the opportunity for information and not connected to the opportunity #environment #sustainability #conservation #csr

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The dynamics of #donation are evolving, and Anshu Gupta from Goonj is at the forefront of this transformative journey. In this episode of Impact Dialogues, Anshu challenges conventional views on the donor-beneficiary relationship, offering #insights that could redefine what it truly means to give. Can't wait to hear your #thoughts. Aishwarya Bhatia #contribution #change #dignity #impact #impactinglives #giving #conversationsthatmatter #impactdialogues

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 🌱 Empowering Marginalized Communities through Grassroots Action: A Journey of Hope and Change 🌱 India’s marginalized communities have long faced systemic inequality, but through resilience and strength, they are transforming their futures. One initiative that has made a profound impact is kitchen gardening, allowing families to grow their own fresh, organic produce, improving nutrition, and fostering self-sufficiency. 🌾🌿 Today, 1,500 families are cultivating over 10,000 quintals of vegetables without the use of chemicals, demonstrating the power of community-driven change. Together, we are addressing malnutrition, hunger, and the broader fight for human rights and gender equality. We extend our gratitude to all who have supported this initiative and continue to stand with us on this journey. Link for details: https://lnkd.in/gSVui-sH #EmpowerCommunities #KitchenGardenRevolution #GrassrootsChange #MalnutritionToSelfSufficiency #WomenLeadChange #EqualityForAll #SustainableAgriculture #BreakingBarriers

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Celebrating Social Responsibility Arun Arora, Director of Chetak foundation, along with senior industry leaders, government officials, bureaucrats, and academicians, launched *We the Responsible People* – 14th Indian Edition of CSR Good Book #SustainabilityInAction #CSRGoodBook #ResponsibleLeadership #ChetakGroup"

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In my column for News18 India, I discuss how path dependency has shaped India's agricultural policies, particularly the entrenched focus on wheat and rice production, despite changing consumption patterns. Drawing from the 2023-24 Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES) analyzed by the EAC-PM Working Paper, food expenditure has dropped below 50% of household consumption for the first time, with significant declines in cereal spending—driven by free grain schemes—and rising consumption of higher-value foods such as fruits, vegetables, and proteins. This shift calls for recalibrating agricultural policies, moving public support from cereal-centric models to more diversified cropping systems that align with evolving consumer demand.

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Capacity building is vital towards developing future competencies, taking Central Vigilance Commission - India , initiative/ vision to work towards preventive vigilance rather than punitive through regular workshops and sensitization, with multiple stakeholder involvement, including Police, CBI , Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau , & area experts , to Sensitize officers - a small step towards that direction

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Rural women microentrepreneurs, consumer acquisition, and value delivery: Evidence from a quasi-experiment in rural India Abstract: Gender equality and social impact are gaining significant research attention in marketing. This paper investigates the impact of recruiting rural women microentrepreneurs on acquiring consumers and delivering value to them. We study the outcomes from a quasi-experiment in which a social enterprise recruited a group of women to become microentrepreneurs in 91 out of 164 locations (panchayats) across rural districts in India. We show that the rural locations with more women than men microentrepreneurs experienced a 40.8% increase in consumer acquisition and delivered 64.1% greater value to their consumers. Moreover, these locations with more women than men microentrepreneurs delivered $5,445 more value for women consumers. Men microentrepreneurs who work in inclusive settings with other women microentrepreneurs delivered $25,100 more value to their consumers than men microentrepreneurs working in predominantly male-work environments. This research contributes to the intersection of marketing, social entrepreneurship, and gender dynamics, underscoring the importance of empowering women for better marketing and societal outcomes. #ConsumerAcquisition #ConsumerValueDelivery #MarketingPerformance #SocialEntrepreneurship · #WomenMicroentrepreneurs #EmergingMarkets #QuasiEexperiment ——- You can read this full paper here: https://rdcu.be/dUTpN based on Soochnapreneur program of Digital Empowerment Foundation that is now functional at 2000 locations with as many micro-digital-entrepreneurs having more than 70 percent women entrepreneurs and 25 percent PwD. Would love to discuss this model for if we can work together to make this a tool of poverty alleviation for 300 backward district and 3500 Taluks and blocks. Let me know if you want a copy for yourself to read.

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Empowering Women in Fisheries: A Step Towards Livelihood Enhancement In Araria, we are making waves by empowering women in fisheries through Jeevika's Matasya Sakhi program. With dedicated Matasya Sakhis over ponds under active intervention, we are transforming traditional livelihoods into sustainable enterprises. From training in pond management to promoting innovations like Azolla cultivation and Mola fish rearing, these women are not only enhancing productivity but also taking ownership of their financial growth. This initiative isn't just about fisheries; it's about fostering leadership, resilience, and community development. Together, we are building a future where women lead the way in creating sustainable livelihoods. #WomenEmpowerment #SustainableLivelihood #FisheriesDevelopment #Jeevika #Araria

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Approaches for Circularity in the Textile and Apparel Sector in India On 16th October 2024, from 12:15 hrs to 13:15 hrs, join us at IFAT India for an insightful session presented by ABFRL, GIZ, and CEE. Explore innovative approaches driving circularity in India's textile and apparel sector. This session will highlight key strategies for sustainable production, recycling, and reducing environmental impact. Gain valuable insights into how the industry can transition towards a more sustainable and circular future. Don’t miss this chance to learn from industry leaders! Register for IFAT India 2024 here: https://bit.ly/4e5rTAL #TextileCircularity #SustainableFashion #CircularEconomy #IFATIndia2024

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Alert:  Ananya Birla Foundation (ABF) is inviting applications for projects aimed at enhancing rural women’s participation in the workforce and improving mental healthcare for vulnerable populations. Thematic Areas In this grant cycle, the organization aim to address two pressing societal issues: -         Promoting sustainable livelihoods and entrepreneurship support for rural women. -         Access to mental healthcare for vulnerable populations Funding Amount Each program is eligible for receiving a maximum grant of ₹1.2 crores or up to 25% of the organization's annual budget, whichever amount is lower Funding Amount -         Maharashtra -         Karnataka -         North-eastern states of India. Eligibility Criteria -         Must be registered under trust, society, or Section-8 non-profit organizations in India. -         Possess valid 12A, 80G, and CSR registrations. -         Demonstrate a commitment to addressing social challenges with a preferable presence in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and the North-eastern states of India. To apply visit the link below https://lnkd.in/guEaWFWD Note: Grant Guideline is attached Disclaimer: Sharing the opportunity for information and not connected to the opportunity #livelihood #mentalhealth #grant #csr

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Empowering philanthropy in the Indian landscape necessitates a robust approach to due diligence, as the country’s diverse socio-economic context presents unique challenges and opportunities for charitable giving. With thousands of NGOs operating across various sectors, from education to healthcare, the potential for impactful philanthropy is immense. However, the lack of standardized reporting and regulatory frameworks can lead to disparities in accountability and transparency among organizations. Donors must be vigilant in evaluating how their contributions are utilized, ensuring they support initiatives that genuinely address the needs of underserved communities. By prioritizing due diligence, philanthropists can help foster a culture of accountability, thereby enhancing the overall efficacy of charitable efforts in India. At our organization, we offer comprehensive Due Diligence Services that extend to a meticulous examination and evaluation of societies, trusts, social enterprises, foundations, and institutions. Our team of experts conducts thorough assessments, providing insights into program execution, operations, governance, compliance, and financial practices. This robust framework enables donors and partnering entities to make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and ensure alignment with their values and objectives. By connecting with us, you can navigate the complexities of the Indian philanthropic landscape with confidence, maximizing the impact of your contributions and fostering transparency and accountability in your charitable endeavors. Together, we can create lasting change and uplift communities across India.

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Meghalaya government takes steps to act against sugar-smuggling activities; asks districts to coordinate with BSF In response to the increasing incidents of illegal sugar smuggling along the Indo-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya, the state government has instructed all districts and subdivisions to collaborate with the Border Security Force (BSF) and other relevant departments to curb such activities and control sugar prices. As per media report, the directive was issued by the Department of Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs after a discussion during a meeting of the State Consumer Protection Council on Friday. The meeting, chaired by Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Minister Comingone Ymbon, addressed issues including the promotion of fortified rice and its awareness. It also recommended regular inspections of petrol pumps in response to complaints about fuel adulteration. Minister Ymbon, who also serves as the chairman of the State Consumer Protection Council, urged officials to establish a robust system for conducting consumer awareness programs and educating consumers about their rights at both district and state levels. He further suggested involving self-help groups (SHGs) to spread awareness among grassroots communities. Commissioner & Secretary of the Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Department, Pravin Bakshi, stated that the meeting aimed to evaluate various departmental initiatives such as the Price Monitoring System (PMS), which tracks the prices of 22 essential commodities to provide advance feedback for policy interventions, ensuring the availability of essential commodities, and keeping prices stable at district and subdivision levels. The meeting was attended by members of the State Consumer Protection Council, including MLAs Rupert Momin, Santa Mary Shylla, and Damanbait Lamare, along with other officials. Credit: https://lnkd.in/d44BX3kZ #india #sugar #sugarcane #government #agrimandi #ChiniMandi

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ISDM and GRAAM successfully co hosted an online panel discussion on 'Communitizing Evaluation : Enabling Community Participation in Monitoring and Evaluation'. Our eminent speakers delved into intricacies of participatory M and E, exploring its benefits, challenges; providing anecdotal evidences and substantial impact it can create in fostering accountability, transparency and empowerment. By emphasizing the importance of involving community members and other key stakeholders in the process of M and E, the discussion highlighted how this paradigm shift could enhance relevance, accuracy and sustainability of development interventions. Stay tuned for more updates on ISDMs efforts to strengthen Monitoring Evaluation and Impact Assessment initiatives Trisha Varma; Lajana Manandhar; Dr. Basavaraju R Shreshta; GRAAM India #ISDM #MELIA #impactinitiatives #measuringandsustainingimpact #collaborativeefforts

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There are about a 1000 research papers across 500 experiments in ‘cash transfers’. We, at The/Nudge Institute, continue to be curious about solutions that can impact lives meaningfully and at scale in India, and hence, worked on this report on ‘Direct Cash Transfers’ to make sense of it. So, what happens when you give cash directly in the hands of people? Evidence says a lot can! — A key finding from our research is the debunking of the long-held belief that the poor waste grant money on alcohol and other addictions. In fact, some studies indicate that poverty-induced stress leads to alcoholism, and cash transfers can help mitigate this issue. Cash transfer programs are becoming a popular choice because of their cost effectiveness, multiplier effect, ability to reduce paternalism, fungible nature and relatively easy and efficient implementation. The evidence of impact for each of the studies reviewed is different as the contexts vary to a great extent, but in the short term, the impact of cash transfers appears to be positive. The strength of cash transfers as an intervention lies in the extent to which they enable the development of capabilities and assets (“productive” effects) as well as provide the potential to recover from shocks and stresses (“protective” effects). The evidence regarding long-term effects is mixed, with some studies indicating dissipation of effects over time and others suggest enduring protective and productive impacts. — Shefali Bajpai who heads our Impact Hub led this, along with her team

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