New Delhi: In a continued effort to drive social transformation through sports, Indian Oil Corporation launched Phase X of its ‘Parivartan – Prison to Pride’ initiative and Phase VII of ‘Nayi Disha – Redefining the Future’ today across various locations in India. The event, attended by State Government officials and prison authorities, highlighted the collaborative efforts to rehabilitate incarcerated individuals and children in correctional homes.
Launched initially on August 15, 2021, and January 26, 2023, respectively, both initiatives underscore Indian Oil’s commitment to using sports as a medium for positive societal change. The new phase aims to benefit over 1,000 individuals across 22 prisons and five children’s correctional homes, providing them with structured sports training to enhance their skills and foster personal development.
As the next phases of #Parivartan and #NayiDisha unfold, hear from our project stakeholders as they share the positive impact of these transformative initiatives. From fostering resilience to igniting hope, their voices are a testament to the power of second chances.#Parivartan… pic.twitter.com/AfqbDq4to0
— Indian Oil Corp Ltd (@IndianOilcl) March 18, 2025
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Indian Oil Chairman AS Sahney emphasized the wider impact of these programs. “Our biggest achievement with this programme is the belief that there is always a second chance,” he said. “By exposing participants to coaching in various sports, followed by their participation in national and international tournaments, we are offering them an opportunity to showcase their talent and channel their energy positively. Through this initiative, we hope to instill a sense of discipline, purpose, and hope, ensuring that inmates are reintegrated into society with dignity.”
The participating State Government officials and prison authorities expressed their gratitude towards Indian Oil for its unique approach to empowering inmates and children in correctional facilities, enabling them to reintegrate into society and contribute meaningfully.
Since their inception, these initiatives have provided support to over 200 prison locations, impacting more than 10,000 individuals across 29 states and Union Territories. The success of the programs is evident, with participants winning accolades such as gold and bronze medals at the World Chess Federation (FIDE) chess tournament in 2024. Indian Oil’s commitment to social good through sports has earned the company prestigious recognitions, including the Sportstar Aces Chairperson Award 2023 and the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards. The World Chess Federation also acknowledged Indian Oil’s efforts during the Chess for Freedom Conference in Chicago in 2023.
In addition to sports training, Indian Oil is also promoting social reintegration through its ‘Umeed – A Hope’ project, in partnership with State Prison Departments. As part of this initiative, 63 fuel stations are being operated by current and former inmates, fostering a sense of belonging and pride.
Through these initiatives, Indian Oil continues to demonstrate its strong commitment to social responsibility, leveraging the power of sports and vocational opportunities to create a meaningful impact in the lives of incarcerated individuals and children in correctional homes, paving the way for their successful reintegration into society.
