CSR leadership is gaining prominence in India as companies recognize the integral role it plays in societal impact. CSR is not just a responsibility; it's an opportunity to create a positive impact and build a legacy of social change. Sandeep Kumar, GM CSR at Indo Count Industries, is one such luminary with over 27 years of profound experience in the CSR domain across diverse organizations nationwide. Holding a postgraduate degree in Rural Management from Xavier Institute of Social Service (XISS - Ranchi), he received the MOEF's National Fellowship from the Nehru Foundation for Development (NFD) and completed the International Training program in Environment Education.
Sandeep's journey in social development, from grassroots NGOs to corporate giants like Tata Motors and Reliance Foundation, reflects a commitment to bring about Social & Environment change with impactful initiatives. His expertise in skilling, waste management, and environmental projects and overall Program Management underscores a holistic approach. Notably, he has been part of various national-level events as a speaker and jury member for CSR-related awards, showcasing his leadership in the field. He is ex. Cricketer and represented a State and University in Inter State and Inter University Tournaments. In an exclusive with Industry Outlook Leaders, Sandeep Kumar delves into his traits and CSR initiatives at Indo Count Industries.
Give a brief overview of your professional background and experience in the field of CSR?
Heading Indo Count's CSR for three years under the able guidance of Board of Directors, I've instigated a strategic shift and initiated various innovative projects, leveraging 27 years of CSR experience across diverse organizations nationwide. My journey spans NGOs, International Development agencies, Crompton Greaves, Tata Motors, Reliance Foundation, Setco Automotives and NEPRA. I've led impactful initiatives—in the areas of tree plantation, transforming wasteland into Greenland, and water conservation for climate resilience through Natural Resource Management, pioneering & promoting safe drinking water project for community, Promotion of on farm and off farm livelihoods as well as Digital learning and earning accolades like Tata Group's TAPP Assessor.
At Reliance Foundation, I pioneered a national skilling model for youth to get trained and job placed. Engaging with NEPRA, an Ahmedabad-based Waste Management startup, added another facet. This enriching journey fuels my passion for impactful CSR. ‘It’s easier to take than to give. It’s nobler to give than to take. The thrill of taking lasts for a day. The thrill of giving lasts a lifetime’. These words inspire me to take on challenges and contribute towards betterment of others.
How has your expertise contributed to the development and implementation of CSR strategies within Indo Count Industries?
Leveraging my experience with industry giants like Tata and Reliance, I've crafted a robust CSR framework at Indo Count. Over the past three years, our CSR initiatives expanded beyond conventional health vans, and E-learning systems. We now delve into diverse activities, aligning them with various SDGs. Our standout program involves innovative model around Miyawaki Plantations, converting wastelands into green spaces, and championing rainwater conservation. By aiding farmers and engaging stakeholders—government agencies, NGOs, and Panchayats—we're catalyzing a broader societal and environmental impact.
I've spearheaded the development of the company's CSR policy, shaping its vision and mission, and we're diligently implementing innovative projects with far-reaching implications, developing various partnerships with GO and NGOs. Our organization has done an MoU and a tripartite collaboration with the Government of Maharashtra and Dr. Punjab Rao Deshmukh Agricultural University, we are in process to establish a Center for Excellence in Cotton Farming, aiming to enhance cotton quality and quantity nationally for Textile Industry to be Sustainable, showcasing CSR's strategic and expansive role. We have in recent past constructed State of Art a Vaccination Centre for Govt. hospital and helped an organization construct a Planetarium at Kolhapur.
It’s easier to take than to give. It’s nobler to give than to take. The Thrill of taking lasts for a day. The Thrill of giving lasts a lifetime
In what ways has your company positively impacted the local communities and share specific sustainability initiatives that you have spearheaded.
We work in a team and our company surpasses mere legal compliance in environmental stewardship, maintaining a 'B'score on the global CDP platform, showcasing coordinated climate actions. Noteworthy achievements in the Higg’s Index and recognition from Hohenstein for water conservation underscore our holistic approach. Our commitment to GHG reduction is evident through Project Gigaton, earning us the title ‘Giga Guru’. Aligned with the Paris Agreement through SBTi, our climate targets exemplify our dedication. Engaging with the UN Global Compact and aligning our BusinessPlan 2030 with SDGs highlights our multifaceted sustainability pillars.
The Gagan Project positively impacts 20,000+ cotton farmers, fostering quality and sustainability. Our Miyawaki Forest initiative transforms industrial wasteland into thriving ecosystems, showcasing our commitment to environmental stewardship. Our CSR initiatives focus on health, deploying vans, upgrading hospitals, and supporting COVID relief, benefiting over 2 lakh patients annually. Nutritional kits, water purifiers, community toilets, and digital education in schools underscore our dedication to community well-being, aiming for positive social and environmental impacts in the communities we serve.
What emerging trends and innovations do you foresee in the CSR and sustainability landscape and how do you plan to adapt or lead in response to these changes?
In the dynamic landscape of CSR and sustainability, addressing climate challenges is paramount. Natural resources, people, and advanced technical solutions play key roles. Investments in sustainable models are essential for harmonizing business growth with environmental conservation. Many folds and in many areas, we have to create platforms for people to acquire new age skills in order to earn and adapting to new-age workforce needs are crucial. We emphasize staff well-being, continuous learning, and health in response to changing lifestyles. With a dedicated focus on long-term impact, 90 percent of our CSR investments are being made in the operational areas of plant locations, ensuring the fulfilment of various community needs, thereby garnering goodwill of organization. Constant needs assessment guides our approach, ensuring meaningful contributions to both local communities and the environment.
Sandeep Kumar, GM CSR, Indo Count Industries
Sandeep Kumar, GM CSR at Indo Count Industries, is a visionary leader with over 27 years of experience in CSR, ranging from grassroots NGOs to corporate giants like Tata Motors and Reliance Foundation. His expertise in skilling, waste management, and environmental projects reflects a holistic commitment to social and environmental change, with a focus on impactful initiatives and strategic leadership.
We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Read more...
