NMDC Limited, in partnership with the Chhattisgarh government, has launched the NMDC Swarojgar Yojana, a transformative CSR initiative aimed at promoting self-employment and economic empowerment in Kondagaon, a tribal district in Chhattisgarh.
With an initial budget of Rs. 1 crore, the program has already disbursed Rs. 40 lakh in its first phase, benefiting over 40 individuals. The initiative focuses on equipping youth and women with resources and skills to establish businesses like dairy farming, tea stalls, and mobile repair shops. Beneficiaries have reported sustainable monthly incomes ranging from Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 30,000, signaling a significant socio-economic transformation in the region.
Highlighting the program’s impact, Ms. Babita Sarkar from Jugani Camp Village utilized funding to start a dairy business, earning Rs. 20,000–Rs. 25,000 monthly, enabling her to support her daughters’ education. Similarly, Ms. Lakshmi Nisad, a tea stall owner in Baderajpur, now earns Rs. 800–Rs. 1,200 daily, marking a substantial improvement in her livelihood.
The program operates under the supervision of the district administration and utilizes a revolving fund mechanism to ensure continuous reinvestment in future entrepreneurs. This approach ensures sustainability and long-term impact.
NMDC’s broader CSR initiatives, including the Balika Shiksha Yojana and Saksham, underline its dedication to sustainable development and community welfare. The NMDC Swarojgar Yojana stands as a testament to the power of focused interventions in driving transformative change in rural India, fostering a brighter and self-reliant future for Kondagaon.
The National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC), a Government of India enterprise under the Ministry of Steel, is the country’s largest iron ore producer and exporter. Established in 1958, NMDC is committed to sustainable mining practices and fostering socio-economic development through its extensive CSR initiatives.
