Concrete

We believe that every step makes a significant impact

Published

4 years ago

May 13, 2022

admin

Shashikant Kumar, General Manager (HR & IR), Udaipur Cement Works (a subsidiary of JK Lakshmi Cement), speaks about initiates taken and challenges faced in implementing corporate social responsibility programmes.

What is the vision of your organisation in terms of CSR?
To strengthen community relationships and to bring sustainable change in the quality of life of neighbourhood communities through innovative solutions in education, health, livelihood and community development. We define Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as the way a company balances its economic, social and environmental objectives, while addressing stakeholder expectations and enhancing shareholder value.
In continuation of the philosophy followed by JK Lakshmi Cement of giving back to the society much before the term corporate social responsibility was coined, Udaipur Cement Works, too, is actively involved towards social causes since its inception by working towards enriching the community living around the plants and mines, especially where the weaker sections of rural and tribal population have limited access to even the basic amenities. The community sustainable development programmes aim at the integrated development of such villages.

How does your organisation zero down on the projects it decides to take up for CSR activities?
CSR action plan is based on the survey reports, consultations with stakeholders and need identification. Based on this mapping, UCWL works closely with the communities to help prioritise their needs in three categories i.e., immediate plan, short term plan and long-term plan, so that the initiatives have effective and positive outcomes for the benefit of the community at large.

Tell us about the budgets allocated for CSR in the current and next financial year.
The procedure for budget allocation is based on priorities and need based analysis of the community. We do ensure that the allotted budget is utilised for the purpose and in the manner for which it is approved and expected to spend within that financial year. Our main verticals for CSR fund are health, water facility, education, learning and skill development. These verticals are covered under different projects such as UCWL Aryogya, UCWL Vidya Project, UCWL Kaushal Prashikshan Project, UCWL Swajal and Swachata Project and UCWL Gramin Vikas Project.

What social responsibilities and community building programmes are your organisations currently working on?
The major focus areas of intervention are education, healthcare, livelihood and community development and commitment towards the social cause which is positively contributing towards human development index.

What significant changes have your CSR activities brought in communities you support?
We believe that every small step makes a significant impact under social responsibility and community development. We created a real life changing story by supporting the community. During the Covid-19 period, we helped them out by distribution of masks, sanitiser and food kits. We are trying to cover all relevant subjects for community support such as skill development, education on sanitation, literacy, eye care, oral hygiene
Few examples are:
For Livelihood:

Selection of 75 Micro/ Small farmers
Six Workshops on ‘Agriculture Input for Rabi Crop’ participated by 125 beneficiaries
Soil testing at State Government Laboratory of all 75 Micro- Small farmers beneficiaries
Developed 75 Individual Farmer Development Plan
Pesticides support to 16 farmers
Door-to-door Veterinary Programme wherein 1711 cattle treated for free, and which

benefited 454 cattle owners

Veterinary Camp treated over 50 cattle
25 girls were trained in the 6-month training programme and 14 placed in BPO sector
26 Women beneficiaries trained in stitching

Community Infra:

Electrification of six Aanganwadi around the mines’ periphery
Toilet facility at Government Senior Secondary School, Mandesar
Repair and maintenance of Government Primary School, Talai, Mandesar

Medical

Organised 15 Medical Camps,which benefited 602 patients
Organised 2 Eye Camps, wherein 249 patients underwent eye check-up and 53 patients were provided with spectacles
Cotton masks, oximeter and PPE kits were provided to four Gram Panchayats, three hospitals and one government school

Tell us about the steps taken by your organisation to achieve net zero. How far have you achieved your targets?
Serving the society towards improving the quality of life of the community at large has always been a priority of the company. The concept of socially responsible business is deeply ingrained into our corporate DNA right from the initial years and till date we have pioneered and delivered several CSR projects for needy and vulnerable communities and families. The company works towards overall development and welfare of the society by focusing on areas such as health, sanitation, water, education, skill development and livelihood interventions. As the beginning of the financial year saw the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic, the company responded to this unprecedented crisis by taking several initiatives in collaboration with local panchayats and district administration. Number of food kits, sanitisers, cotton masks and hand wash were distributed to the needy families as well as sessions and meetings were organised to create awareness on Covid-19. The company also undertook multiple CSR activities like medical camps, skills training for the women and girls and supporting them for income earning under its flagship project ‘Swavalamban’, among others. Projects like farmers’ training, exposure visits and veterinary camps were organised to improve agricultural and cattle rearing practices to strengthen livelihoods of the marginalised families. These CSR projects have positively impacted the lives of the beneficiaries around the plant.

What is the expertise you employ to implement your CSR plans?
Currently we have recruited CSR professionals having more than 10 years of experience in
the development sector and two project experts as consultants.

How has the pandemic impacted your community building activities?
We stood up strongly with our stakeholders and nearby community. Although activities were stuck for a small period during complete lock down when movement was restricted. However, it was momentary. That time was crucial for everyone from an individual to an industry, everyone. Overall, the pandemic was a lesson for all of us and an opportunity for awareness among people about the importance of hygiene and sanitisation. We met with the local panchayat and district administration. We conducted awareness sessions, distributed a number of food kits, sanitisers and cotton masks for safety towards Covid-19 pandemic.

Tell us about the awards and accolades won by your organisation for CSR.

UCWL recognised with ‘National Award for Excellence under CSR in Best Community Action Category’
UCWL was awarded ‘Winner for 8th CSR India Award 2021’
UCWL received an Appreciation Certificate for contribution in ‘Ghar Ghar Aushadhi Vitran

Yojna’ of the Department of Forest; Government of Rajasthan. This scheme was designed for distribution of medicinal plants to state citizens.

What are the future plans for building communities and giving back to society?
Currently we are working in 6 villages only and planning to increase the number of villages to 27, with an integrated approach of socio-economic development for the community. Some major proposed projects are as mentioned below:

Project 1

Name of CSR Projects Project Planned Activities Frequency of activity Total number of units
UCWL Aarogya Project,

Purpose Statement: To deliver affordable/quality health care services & door stapes MMU MMU modal in partnership with H2H foundation 2 Camps per day (Monthly 25*2 camps) 600

Project 2

Name of CSR Projects Project Planned Activities Frequency of activity Total number of units
UCWL Vidya Project,

Purpose Statement: To support around 300 needy students with a school kits simultaneously support Govt schools in primarily mines area with teachers support to bridge the shortfalls of teachers
Education School kit support – in 3 Govt primary Schools One time 300
Teacher support – 5 Govt Sr Secondary Schools Monthly 2
Repair & maintenance of Govt up-primary school, Bajajnagar – Plant area One time 1
PCC work @ Govt Primary school, Talai One time 1

Project 3

Name of CSR Projects Project Planned Activities Frequency of activity Total number of units
UCWL Aajivika Project,

Purpose Statement: Promoting Farm & Allied livelihoods through institution building, capacity building, skill development training, support services & other related initiatives. Animal Husbandry Door to door vet service Monthly 2500
Artificial insemination for cattle Monthly 1428
Vet Camp (Daroli, Toos, Ghupadi & Majawada) Qtr 16

Project 4
Name of CSR Projects Project Planned Activities Frequency of activity Total number of units
UCWL Aajivika Project,

Purpose Statement: Promoting Farm & Allied livelihoods through institution building, capacity building, skill development training, support services & other related initiatives. Agriculture Development Agriculture Development Setting up Vermi Bed (Soil Improvement) One time 50
Capacity Building & Training of Farmers Monthly 24
Seed & pest support Twice in a Year 30
Exposure visit – Other district / State One time 50
Exposure visit – Inter district One time 50
Spray Pump with motor One time 4
Repair & maintenance cost of spray pumps One time 4
Spray Pump manual One time 4
Repair & maintenance cost of spray pumps One time 4
Plantation (SA) One time 1000
Access to Govt scheme One time 35
Training on Agri-allied activity to promote small business like Goatry/ Poultry/ Rabbit Keeping / Beekeeping / Mushroom Farming / Dairy Development – AI One time 60
Support to trained beneficiaries of agri-alied activity to promote small business – Goatry/ Poultry/ Rabbit Keeping / Beekeeping / Mushroom Farming / AI One time 30

Project 5

Name of CSR Projects Project Planned Activities Frequency of activity Total number of units
UCWL Kaushal Parshikshan Project,

Purpose Statement: Provide Skill training & coaching support to 350 youths in various trades. Skill Development RSCIT – Rajasthan State Course In Information Technology Diploma to increase the IT education level for Job Readiness.
Three months training, Examination & certification Qtr 120
Skill training for women (Beautician & Tailoring) Qtr 120
Salary of teacher Competitive / coaching classes & other running exp Monthly 50
Projector One time 1
Computer for teacher One time 1
Training in Technical trades Qtr 10

-Kanika Mathur

Up Next

Creating Value through CSR

Don't Miss

Our mission is to positively impact as many lives possible

Concrete

Cement Makers Reaffirm Commitment to Sustainable Growth

Published

5 days ago

June 5, 2026

admin

World Environment Day spotlight on innovation and circularity

On World Environment Day, the Indian cement industry reiterated its commitment to supporting India’s climate ambitions through sustainable manufacturing, resource efficiency and the adoption of cleaner technologies.

The Cement Manufacturers’ Association (CMA) said the sector remains aligned with the Government of India’s Net Zero commitments and is accelerating efforts to reduce its environmental footprint while supporting the country’s infrastructure and development agenda.

Parth Jindal, President, CMA and Managing Director, JSW Cement, said the industry is increasingly adopting cleaner technologies, improving energy efficiency and expanding the use of alternative fuels and raw materials. He also highlighted the growing importance of circular economy practices, where industrial by-products and waste streams from one sector are utilised as resources in another.

“The Indian Cement Industry is aligned to the Government’s commitments on carbon mitigation and is accelerating the adoption of cleaner technologies, resource efficiency and circular economy practices while actively exploring the potential of Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) as a critical pathway for deep decarbonisation,” said Jindal.

He added that coprocessing industrial waste and by-products helps conserve natural resources, reduce disposal requirements and lower the environmental footprint across multiple sectors.

According to Jindal, sustainability is no longer limited to manufacturing processes but is increasingly influencing investment decisions, innovation strategies and long-term growth plans within the industry.

Echoing similar views, Dr Raghavpat Singhania, Vice President, CMA and Managing Director, JK Cement, said sustainable development extends beyond emissions reduction and must also focus on responsible resource utilisation and waste minimisation.

“Sustainability in the built environment cannot be measured by emissions alone. It is equally about how efficiently we use resources, how effectively we minimise waste and how responsibly we create the infrastructure that will serve future generations,” said Singhania.

He noted that the cement industry is advancing its sustainability agenda through greater resource efficiency, increased circularity, technological innovation and continuous improvements in manufacturing practices. As a key contributor to India’s infrastructure development, the sector has a critical role to play in balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.

On the occasion of World Environment Day, industry leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting India’s climate goals while delivering the materials required for resilient, durable and sustainable infrastructure.

Concrete

Building a Greener Future Together

Published

6 days ago

June 4, 2026

admin

Environmental sustainability requires immediate action, not just long-term commitments and discussions. Recycling, circular economy practices, and technology-driven waste management can help industries reduce environmental impact while supporting sustainable growth.

Author: Jignesh Kundaria, Director and CEO, Fornnax Technology

World Environment Day serves as an important reminder that environmental sustainability can no longer remain confined to discussions, reports, or long-term commitments. The environmental challenges facing the world today demand immediate, measurable, and collective action. Across industries and communities, waste generation continues to outpace our ability to process it responsibly, placing increasing pressure on ecosystems, natural resources, public health, and the well-being of future generations.

One of the most significant shifts required today is a change in how society perceives waste. Rather than being viewed as a material to be discarded, waste must be recognised as a valuable resource that can contribute to both economic growth and environmental protection when managed through the right technologies and systems. This mindset forms the foundation of the circular economy model that countries across the world are increasingly adopting to reduce landfill dependence, recover valuable materials, and create more sustainable industrial ecosystems.

India has made meaningful progress in strengthening awareness around sustainability, recycling, and environmental responsibility over the past decade. Significant efforts are being made to formalise the recycling sector through improved infrastructure, technology adoption, policy implementation, and broader stakeholder participation. These developments are creating a stronger foundation for responsible waste management and resource recovery across the country.

However, achieving long-term environmental impact requires collaboration from all stakeholders. Industries, policymakers, technology providers, and communities must work together with greater accountability to strengthen recycling ecosystems, encourage responsible waste management practices, and create sustainable outcomes through consistent execution rather than temporary interventions.

As someone closely associated with the recycling industry, I firmly believe that technology will play a decisive role in addressing future environmental challenges. Advanced recycling systems have the potential to recover valuable resources, reduce pollution, minimise landfill burdens, and conserve energy, creating a more sustainable future for generations to come. This belief is deeply reflected in Fornnax’s motto, “Committed to Create a Green Future,” which embodies our commitment to building long-term environmental value through innovation and responsible action.

At the same time, technology alone cannot deliver meaningful change. Real progress requires intent, awareness, participation, and a shared sense of responsibility. Sustainable development can only be achieved when innovation is supported by collective action and a genuine commitment to environmental stewardship.

On this World Environment Day, let us move beyond conversations and take meaningful steps towards creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable planet. By embracing innovation, strengthening recycling ecosystems, and acting responsibly today, we can create lasting environmental impact and secure a better future for generations to come.

Concrete

JK Lakshmi Advances LC3 Cement Expansion

Company highlights commercial production and research partnerships

Published

1 week ago

June 1, 2026

admin

The meeting reviewed progress in limestone calcined clay cement (LC3) technology and its commercial adoption in India’s cement sector, focusing on low-carbon alternatives to conventional binders. JK Lakshmi Cement noted that limestone calcined clay cement can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 40 per cent compared with conventional cement and said this reduction supports industry decarbonisation. The company highlighted that it was among the first two cement manufacturers in India to move LC3 into commercial production after the Bureau of Indian Standards approved the technology as a cement standard.

Vinita Singhania said the transition of LC3 from research to commercial production reflected collaboration between industry, academia and international institutions. Maya Tissafi acknowledged JK Lakshmi Cement’s role in advancing LC3 adoption in India and its contribution in taking the technology from laboratory trials to commercial implementation. Both representatives underlined the growing relevance of sustainable construction materials as India expands infrastructure and urban development.

The meeting explored continued collaboration with Swiss research institutions such as EPFL, EMPA and ETH Zurich alongside Indian academic partners and development organisations. JK Lakshmi Cement has been associated with the LC3 initiative since 2014 and worked with EPFL, IIT Delhi, IIT Madras, Development Alternatives and Technology and Action for Rural Advancement. The company conducted one of the earliest industrial trials of LC3 and recently announced commercial production of Green Pro LC3 cement from its Jaykaypuram plant in Rajasthan.

India remains the world’s second-largest cement producer and expansion of infrastructure, urbanisation and housing demand continue to support long-term sector growth, increasing interest in low-carbon technologies. The company reported an annual turnover of more than Rupees (Rs) 60 bn and current cement capacity of about 18 million (mn) tonnes (t) per annum, with a target of reaching 30 million (mn) tonnes (t) by 2030. Apart from grey cement, the company also makes ready-mix concrete, gypsum plaster, wall putty, primers, adhesives and fly ash blocks, and both sides concluded on the need for continued collaboration to develop sustainable construction solutions.