In a glittering event attended by RID 3131 leaders, 29 companies were honoured for their CSR projects in partnership with Rotary clubs across all the focus areas of Rotary.
More than 80 companies had submitted their nominations through an online application process. While the CSR awards had four categories based on the company size as small, medium, large and mega enterprises, there was also a special category for corporates that executed CSR projects although it was not mandatory for them. Even companies that had not submitted nominations but had partnered with Rotary for their CSR projects were recognised by way of certificates of appreciation. All the awards and certificates were handed over by vice-admiral Gurcharan Singh, commandant, National Defence Academy, Pune, who was the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering of 300 invitees, including 100 corporate executives, vice admiral Singh said, “true leadership lies in service. The corporate world has a powerful role in nation-building, and Rotary’s initiative to recognise their efforts is commendable.” The strength of a nation lies not just in its armed forces, “but in the compassion and responsibility shown by its people and institutions. Events like the CSR Awards highlight the spirit of service that bind us all,” he pointed out.
A jury panel consisting of Lt Gen (retd) D B Shekatkar, former state principal secretary Mahesh Zagade, Maher founder Sister Lucy Kurien, Mohan Agashe, a fine arts celebrity, sportswoman Anjali Bhagwat, Ernst & Young director Arvind Sethi and his associate Prasad Giri vetted the shortlisted companies to select the awardees.
In his address, DG Shital Shah said the CSR awards represent a ‘shared commitment to sustainable and inclusive development. Rotary is proud to facilitate such impactful partnerships.” DRFC Shailesh Palekar dwelt on the value of long-term partnerships between corporates and Rotary clubs by highlighting the “mutual benefits of collaboration. That is, while enterprises fulfil their CSR goals, they also contribute meaningfully to Rotary service projects.”
Rotary CSR Awards convener Ravi Kapoor said the “depth, innovation and social commitment reflected in the nominations were remarkable as CSR projects have evolved from the corporates’ obligation to a genuine societal impact.” Seven Rotary clubs of RID 3131 co-hosted the third edition of Rotary CSR Awards in Pune.