December 2024, India : Roots Foundation’s Community Development Project, being run in partnership with Exide Industries Limited, received the Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCC&I) Social Leadership Award 2024 for Rural Development Category during the 3rd Edition of BCC&I Social Leadership Conclave in New Delhi.

The distinguished award recognises Roots Foundation and Exide Industries; efforts to catalyse transformation in Polanahalli and Cheemachanahalli villages, Devanahalli, Karnataka. The award underscores the Project’s commendable interventions in five key areas: Holistic Education, Holistic Wellness, Environmental Initiatives, Rural Infrastructure, and Women’s Empowerment.

Devanahalli, a rural taluk near urban Bangalore, faces challenges such as limited infrastructure, inadequate healthcare, under-resourced schools, deforestation, and restricted opportunities for women. In response, various initiatives were designed in consultation with community members to address these pressing issues. Roots Foundation’s efforts were focused on enhancing school infrastructure to create a safe and supportive learning environment for students, improving healthcare access and overall well-being for the community, and empowering women with livelihood opportunities to foster economic independence and resilience. These targeted interventions have positively impacted more than 2,500 community members, demonstrating the power of collective action in promoting sustainable and inclusive rural development.

On the occasion, Ritwik Bahuguna, Managing Director, Farlense; Founder, Roots Foundation, expressed, “We are truly honoured to receive the prestigious BCC&I Social Leadership Award 2024 for our Community Development Project in partnership with Exide Industries. This recognition highlights our commitment to driving transformative change through holistic community development. At Roots Foundation, we believe in empowering communities to become self-reliant and resilient. We aim at advancing inclusive growth by addressing local needs, building capacities, and creating sustainable pathways for a brighter future.”

Instituted by the Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a reputable non-governmental trade association and advocacy group based in West Bengal, India, the Social Leadership Award celebrates organisations that demonstrate exemplary social leadership and impact.

In partnership with Exide Industries, the Community Development Project has implemented impactful initiatives across multiple focus areas. In education, the project improved local school infrastructure and awarded scholarships to underprivileged girls, enhancing access to quality learning. Healthcare efforts have included health camps benefiting over 900 community members, nutritional support for pregnant and lactating women, and menstrual health awareness sessions. Environmental initiatives involved plantation drives and the creation of kitchen gardens in schools, fostering sustainability. Self-Help Groups (SHGs) were trained in livelihood skills such as candle-making to empower women. Additionally, infrastructure upgrades, including installing streetlights and RO plants, have directly improved the lives of community members, contributing to a safer and healthier environment.