The valedictory ceremony was graced by Arnab Maitra, Executive Director & Head of Project, NTPC Bongaigaon, as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, Maitra described GEM as a reflection of NTPC’s commitment to creating opportunities for young girls and enabling them to realise their potential. He appreciated the confidence and talent displayed by the participants through their cultural presentations and interactions.

Maitra highlighted how the four-week residential programme provided the girls with opportunities extending beyond classroom learning. Through educational exposure, creative activities, sports, interactions, workshops and experiential learning, the participants were encouraged to become more confident, expressive and independent. He also thanked the parents, teachers, district administration and all stakeholders whose support contributed to the successful conduct of GEM 2026.

Earlier, Amit Kumar Asthana, Head of HR, NTPC Bongaigaon, welcomed the gathering and spoke about the objectives of the Girl Empowerment Mission and the efforts made to provide the participants with a safe, engaging and nurturing environment. He acknowledged the active involvement of the Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club, GEM Committee members, faculty members, coordinators and various departments of NTPC Bongaigaon in making the programme successful. He also proposed the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to everyone associated with the month-long initiative.

The nearly two-hour cultural programme showcased the skills and confidence acquired by the girls during their stay. The performances included a skit based on noted athlete Hima Das, fusion dance, Assamese Bihu, Bodo folk dance, group songs, mime show, yoga presentations and a grand finale celebrating women’s empowerment. An exhibition featuring handmade art and craft items created by the participants during GEM was also organised alongside the programme.

The formal de-registration and handing-over of the participants to their parents/guardians was conducted on 1 August 2026. As part of the culmination of their GEM journey, certificates and framed photographs capturing memorable moments of the programme were presented to the participants. The concluding activities were held in the presence of Arnab Maitra; Anurag Gupta, General Manager (O&M); Amit Kumar Asthana, Head of HR; distinguished guests, representatives of unions and associations, faculty members, GEM Committee members and coordinators from Tanvi Consultancy Limited.

Conducted from 3 July to 31 July 2026, GEM offered a comprehensive mix of academics and co-curricular learning. Academic inputs included English, Hindi, Mathematics, Science and vernacular languages, complemented by sessions in computer literacy, life skills, yoga, dance, theatre, mime, sports, art and craft, clay and pottery painting, self-defence and other creative activities.

The girls also participated in a range of experiential and awareness-based programmes during the month. Sessions on fire and safety by CISF personnel, health and hygiene by medical professionals, environmental awareness, sports, plantation, public speaking and interactions with role models added to the residential learning experience. Educational and exposure visits further helped the participants explore areas beyond the conventional classroom environment.

GEM 2026 also marked an expansion of the programme at NTPC Bongaigaon, with the annual intake increasing from 40 to 50 girls. With the completion of this year’s edition, NTPC Bongaigaon has empowered 210 girls from communities in and around the station since commencing GEM in 2022.

Launched by NTPC in 2018, the Girl Empowerment Mission has grown into a major residential empowerment initiative for young girls, reaching more than 16,000 participants across the country. Through GEM, NTPC seeks to nurture confidence, creativity, knowledge, leadership and aspirations among young girls while providing them with opportunities to discover their abilities and dream of a wider world.

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CMD BCCL Manoj Kumar Agarwal formally inaugurated the Kanwariya Medical Aid Camp established by BCCL to provide free medical assistance to devotees on the Deoghar–Sultanganj Kanwariya route during the Shravani Mela.

Established under BCCL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, the camp is being operated by the Pradaan Foundation. It will provide first aid, essential medical consultations, medicines, and other healthcare services to pilgrims throughout the fair. Two ambulances, oxygen support, a team of specialist doctors, and other essential medical facilities have been deployed at the camp.

Present on the occasion were Director (Human Resources) Murali Krishna Ramaiah, Director (Technical/Operations) Sanjay Kumar Singh, Director (Finance) Rajesh Kumar, along with Diksha Mahila Mandal President Archana Agarwal, Vice Presidents Purbita Ramaiah and Neeta Kumar. Representatives of the Pradaan Foundation and other distinguished guests were also present.

The inaugural ceremony began with a formal welcome for the guests, Ganesh Puja, and the lighting of the ceremonial lamp. A bhajan programme was presented by local artists, who performed Shiva devotional songs and filled the atmosphere with devotion. The Diksha Mahila Mandal presented the group with a cash award of ₹11,000 in recognition of their outstanding performance.

In his address, Manoj Kumar Agarwal said that the Shravani Mela is a grand festival of faith, service, and devotion. He said BCCL has always remained committed to social welfare and public well-being under its CSR initiatives. In keeping with this commitment, the medical aid camp has been established to provide timely healthcare services to pilgrims during the Shravani Mela and make their journey safer and more comfortable. He also expressed gratitude to all the doctors, healthcare workers, and volunteers involved in the initiative.

Following the inauguration, the CMD inspected the medical aid camp, reviewed the available healthcare facilities, and encouraged the doctors, health workers, and volunteers engaged in service. He interacted with Kanwariyas visiting the camp, enquired about their well-being, and reviewed the facilities being provided. On the occasion, the CMD and the directors served the devotees and distributed fruits among them. Archana Agarwal, Purbita Ramaiah, and Neeta Kumar also distributed fruits and drinking water to the pilgrims.

Earlier, all the dignitaries, led by the CMD, performed ritualistic worship and Jalabhishek at the Shri Baidyanath Dham Temple. They also visited the Mata Parvati Temple and other prominent shrines, praying for happiness, prosperity, good health, and peace for all. The delegation later offered prayers at Basukinath Dham and prayed for the well-being of the BCCL family, the people of the state, and all devotees.

The medical aid camp established by BCCL during the Shravani Mela reflects the company’s continued commitment to public service and social responsibility. BCCL said it will continue undertaking such community welfare initiatives in the future to support society and contribute to inclusive development.

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The medical camp was inaugurated by CCL Director (Human Resources) Harsh Nath Mishra and will remain operational from July 30 to August 28, 2026. The initiative aims to offer free medical consultation, primary healthcare services and essential medical assistance to devotees visiting the revered Baba Baidyanath Dham as well as residents of the surrounding villages.

The inaugural programme began with a traditional prayer ceremony, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and a cultural performance. Harsh Nath Mishra formally inaugurated the camp by cutting the ribbon.

After the inauguration, Mishra inspected the medical facilities and healthcare arrangements at the camp and reviewed the preparedness of the medical team. He appreciated the comprehensive arrangements made for the convenience of pilgrims and local citizens.

Speaking on the occasion, Mishra said that access to quality healthcare assumes great importance during a large religious congregation such as the Shravani Mela. He reaffirmed CCL’s commitment to its social responsibilities and said the company would continue to undertake such public welfare initiatives in the future.

The programme concluded with the distribution of fruits and sweets among devotees and guests present at the event.

The inauguration was attended by the General Manager of Giridih Area, Project Officer, senior officials of the area, members of the Area Consultative Committee (ACC), representatives of various labour organisations, media personnel and other dignitaries.

The medical camp reflects CCL’s continued commitment to community welfare by ensuring accessible and quality healthcare services for thousands of pilgrims and local residents during one of Jharkhand’s largest annual religious gatherings.

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The MoU was signed at BCCL’s Coal Bhawan Headquarters in line with the guidance of the Ministry of Coal and the CSR guidelines of Coal India Limited. The agreement was signed on behalf of BCCL by Surendra Bhushan, Head of Department (CSR), in the presence of officials from the BCCL CSR team and representatives of Pradaan Foundation.

As part of the collaboration, Pradaan Foundation, with support from BCCL, will establish a free Kanwaria Medical Service Camp along the Sultanganj–Deoghar pilgrimage route throughout the duration of the Shravani Mela. The camp will provide first aid, emergency medical assistance, and other essential healthcare services to devotees undertaking the arduous foot journey to the holy shrine.

The Shravani Mela is one of India’s largest annual religious gatherings, attracting millions of devotees from across the country and abroad. Pilgrims carry holy Ganga water from Sultanganj to the Baidyanath Dham temple in Deoghar, covering the distance on foot to offer Jalabhishek to Lord Shiva. The massive influx of devotees makes access to timely medical care a critical requirement during the pilgrimage.

BCCL’s initiative aims to ensure that Kanwariyas receive prompt medical attention and basic healthcare support, enhancing their safety and well-being during the month-long spiritual journey.

The company has been actively implementing various public welfare initiatives under its CSR programme, and this latest effort reflects its continued commitment to community service. By extending free medical facilities during one of the country’s largest religious events, BCCL seeks to combine social responsibility with humanitarian service while supporting an important cultural and spiritual tradition.

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The MoU, signed in Mathura, marks a significant step towards restoring Braj’s ecological and spiritual heritage through the Vraj Vaibhav Abhiyan, an ambitious initiative inspired by the vision of Revered Daaji, Guide of Heartfulness and President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission.

Under the agreement, the two organisations will work together to conserve Braj’s sacred heritage, rejuvenate its fragile ecosystem, enhance biodiversity, promote environmental awareness, and improve community welfare. They will jointly identify, develop, and implement suitable projects in collaboration with technical experts, implementation agencies, CSR partners, academic institutions, and other stakeholders.

A major focus of the initiative will be the restoration of at least ten historic kunds (sacred ponds), including Govind Kund, Gandharv Kund, and Surabhi Kund, through water cleaning and ecological revival. In partnership with ISKCON and the Tata Group, other revered water bodies such as Radha Kund and Milan Kund are also being rejuvenated using bioremediation techniques, sewage treatment systems, and restoration of adjoining ghats.

The project also includes the development of a 7-kilometre eco-friendly Inner Parikrama Path, featuring dedicated lanes for pilgrims walking the sacred route as well as those performing full-body prostration circumambulation.

In another major ecological intervention, nearly 60 hectares around Govardhan Hill will be equipped with an extensive irrigation network and Rain Gun Sprinkler System to support afforestation with indigenous plant species. The initiative will also focus on restoring ancient sacred forests, including the historic Kamail Karhala forests.

To strengthen long-term ecological sustainability, an 8-acre modern nursery is being developed at Sunrakh in Vrindavan to cultivate native plant species and support ongoing afforestation and biodiversity conservation efforts.

Speaking on the occasion, Revered Daaji, President of Shri Ram Chandra Mission and Guide of Heartfulness, said Braj has always represented a sacred space where nature and human consciousness exist in harmony.

“When we care for the land with sensitivity and purity of intention, we also uplift the hearts of the people who live there. This collaboration is an opportunity to serve both the outer environment and the inner condition of humanity, so that future generations may inherit not only a preserved heritage, but a living legacy rooted in responsibility and respect for nature,” he said.

Shailja Kant Misra, Vice Chairman of UP Braj Teerth Vikas Parishad, said Braj has guided seekers and communities for centuries and that the partnership with Heartfulness would strengthen efforts to nurture the region as a centre of sacred heritage, inner well-being, and environmental stewardship.

Lakshmi Nagappan, CEO of UP Braj Teerth Vikas Parishad, said the collaboration would help translate shared intent into tangible community-level outcomes that enhance Braj’s environment, public participation, and cultural vitality.

The MoU also provides a framework for future projects to be undertaken through separate funding arrangements, work orders, and project agreements. Both organisations will retain ownership of their respective intellectual property, trademarks, methodologies, and proprietary materials while collaborating on initiatives aimed at restoring the ecological and cultural legacy of Braj.

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As part of the programme, 40 trolley bags and food packets were distributed among contract labourers to support their daily needs and acknowledge their hard work, dedication, and contribution to society.

Members from the Arpita Mahila Mandal units of Ranchi, Rajhara, Barkakana, and Giridih worked together to ensure the smooth and orderly distribution of the welfare materials, reflecting a strong spirit of teamwork and community engagement.

Speaking on the occasion, Mrs. Preeti Singh, President of Arpita Mahila Mandal, emphasized that respecting and supporting the working class is a moral responsibility of every citizen. She reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to continuing its public welfare initiatives through various socially beneficial activities in the future.

The beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to Arpita Mahila Mandal and its members for the thoughtful initiative, which added to the festive spirit of Sawan while recognizing the invaluable contribution of contract workers.

The programme concluded successfully with the active participation and coordinated efforts of the Arpita Mahila Mandal teams from Ranchi, Rajhara, Barkakana, and Giridih.

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The camp aimed to raise awareness about preventive healthcare, encourage regular health check-ups, and inspire students to adopt healthy lifestyle practices from an early age.

A team of medical experts from Dugdha Coal Washery conducted comprehensive health examinations, including height, weight, vision, and dental health screenings. Students also received health counselling wherever required, ensuring regular monitoring of their physical growth and overall well-being.

The initiative was organized in compliance with the directions of BCCL Chairman-cum-Managing Director Manoj Kumar Agarwal, who, during his visit to Dugdha Coal Washery with the company’s Board of Directors last month, had instructed Saraswati Vidya Mandir, Dugdha, to organize regular health check-up camps for students.

With the motto “Let’s Build a Healthy Future Together!”, BCCL continues to prioritize healthcare, education, and the social development of communities surrounding its mining operations. Such health camps play an important role in creating health awareness among students, facilitating early detection of potential health issues, and providing timely medical guidance.

The camp was led by Dr. Mukesh Kumar, Deputy Medical Surgeon, Dugdha Coal Washery. Project Officer Amit Kumar, along with teachers of Saraswati Vidya Mandir and other school staff members, actively participated in ensuring the successful conduct of the programme.

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The achievement was commemorated at AASTHA CareConnect 2026 in Bengaluru, where senior government officials, healthcare leaders, policymakers, clinicians, patient advocates and development partners deliberated on strengthening patient navigation systems and improving equitable access to healthcare.

Project AASTHA focuses on bridging critical gaps in patient care by helping individuals navigate complex healthcare systems, access government welfare schemes, receive counselling and connect with essential support services throughout their treatment journey.

With India witnessing a rising burden of cancer and rare diseases, the initiative addresses challenges that extend beyond clinical treatment. Patients and caregivers often struggle with hospital procedures, treatment pathways, financial assistance and access to government schemes. Project AASTHA seeks to simplify these processes, ensuring timely and informed access to care.

Key Achievements Since 2022

Over the past four years, Project AASTHA has delivered significant outcomes across the country:

• Supported over 10 lakh patients and caregivers, including 9.25 lakh cancer patients and 75,000 people living with rare diseases.
• Established 15 Cancer Centres of Excellence and five Rare Disease Centres of Excellence to provide patient navigation and support services.
• Helped secure financial assistance for more than 29,000 beneficiaries, while enabling treatment support for over 33,000 patients.
• Extended specialised assistance to nearly 8,000 children, including those affected by genetic and rare diseases.

Significant Impact in Karnataka

The programme has also made a notable contribution in Karnataka by:

• Supporting more than 59,000 patients through patient navigation services.
• Facilitating over 38,000 applications for government healthcare funding.
• Enabling treatment support for more than 33,000 patients, improving access to timely healthcare across the state.

Speaking on the milestone, Meenakshi Nevatia, Country President, Pfizer India, said Project AASTHA demonstrates how timely guidance, counselling and non-medical support can help patients and caregivers navigate complex treatment journeys with confidence and dignity.

“We are grateful to have supported more than 10 lakh patients and caregivers in need. Together with our partners Doctors for You, we remain committed to enabling early diagnosis, simplifying treatment pathways and continuing to improve access to quality healthcare across India,” she said.

Dr. Rajat Jain, President, Doctors for You, said the AASTHA CareConnect 2026 Forum celebrated the programme’s achievements while charting the future of patient navigation in India.

“Patients and families often require support beyond clinical care—from understanding hospital processes and accessing government welfare schemes to receiving emotional reassurance during treatment. We look forward to scaling helpdesk-led patient navigation models to reach many more people,” he said.

At the conclusion of AASTHA CareConnect 2026, Pfizer India and Doctors for You reaffirmed their commitment to building a more accessible, equitable and patient-centric healthcare ecosystem, while strengthening collaboration to improve health outcomes across the country.

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Lokesh Kumar, son of CCL employee Bhuneshwar Munda, was rushed to CCL’s Central Hospital, Dakra, immediately after the snakebite. The medical team acted without delay, administering the required dose of Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) and initiating emergency treatment to stabilize his condition.

Following the initial treatment, Lokesh was referred to CCL’s Central Hospital, Gandhinagar, for advanced monitoring and specialized medical care.

Doctors at Gandhinagar Central Hospital kept him under close observation for two days. Owing to the timely administration of anti-snake venom and continuous monitoring by the medical team, his condition improved steadily. He has now made a full recovery and is being discharged from the hospital.

The successful treatment highlights the preparedness and capability of CCL’s healthcare infrastructure in handling medical emergencies. Equipped with modern facilities, experienced doctors, and round-the-clock emergency services, CCL’s hospitals continue to provide quality healthcare to employees, their families, and the communities living around its operational areas.

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The inaugural programme was graced by Jaikumar Srinivasan, Director (Finance), NTPC Limited, in the presence of Arnab Maitra, Head of Project, NTPC Bongaigaon, Kasturi Maitra, President, Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club, and Anurag Gupta, General Manager (O&M), NTPC Bongaigaon.

This year’s programme has selected 50 girls from 12 neighbouring schools, an increase of 10 participants over previous editions. The month-long residential initiative is designed for girls aged 10–12 years and focuses on building self-confidence, leadership qualities, life skills and social responsibility. The event commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp followed by the NTPC theme song.

Senior officials, including L. N. Meitei, Commandant, CISF, Amit Kumar Asthana, Head of HR, representatives of unions and associations, welfare organisations, teachers, parents and guardians attended the inaugural ceremony.

The event featured a short film tracing the journey of GEM 2026, vibrant cultural performances by girls from the Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club and students of Notre Dame Academy, along with inspiring testimonials from alumni of the GEM 2023 batch. Students also presented a moving performance inspired by the life and ideals of Malala Yousafzai, highlighting the transformative power of education in empowering girls.

Addressing the gathering, Jaikumar Srinivasan emphasised that empowering girls is fundamental to building stronger families and communities. He praised NTPC Bongaigaon for creating a nurturing environment that encourages young girls to realise their full potential. Following the inaugural programme, he visited the residential facilities, interacted with the participants and distributed bicycles to all 50 girls as a gesture of encouragement for their educational journey.

In his address, Arnab Maitra reaffirmed NTPC’s commitment to education, empowerment and inclusive growth, describing the Girl Empowerment Mission as one of the organisation’s flagship community development initiatives that nurtures confident, capable and socially responsible future women leaders.

The four-week residential programme, running from 4 July to 31 July 2026, offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes academic learning, personality development, digital literacy, sports, creative arts, health and wellness sessions, exposure visits and activities aimed at enhancing the participants’ physical, mental and emotional well-being.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Amit Kumar Asthana, Head of HR, expressed gratitude to parents, teachers, volunteers, welfare organisations and the organising committee for their collective support in making the initiative successful.

Since its launch in 2022, NTPC Bongaigaon has empowered 210 girls, including participants in the current edition. A distinctive feature of the programme is that 10 per cent of participants, selected through an independent evaluation conducted by an external agency, are provided free education at the NTPC township school, enabling deserving girls to continue their studies in a supportive learning environment.

Across the country, the Girl Empowerment Mission has benefited more than 13,000 girls at NTPC locations, reflecting the company’s sustained commitment to gender equality, social responsibility and sustainable community development.

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