Axis Bank Foundation (ABF) has partnered with SELCO Foundation to launch its Sustainable Livelihood Program across Meghalaya, Manipur and Assam. This initiative aims to integrate scientific expertise, advanced technology, and indigenous knowledge in partnership with communities in the Northeast regions to develop resilience against challenges such as geographical isolation and climate adversities like floods and droughts. The primary focus of this program is to deploy solar powered solutions in a manner that develops local leadership and talent, promotes local entrepreneurship, particularly in the farm and non-farm sectors. This initiative will also work towards converging several developmental programs in the region and partner with Government Schemes, Financial Institutions, Civil Society Organizations, Local Innovators and Entrepreneurs, as well as Community led Organizations (Self Help Groups (SHGs), and producer groups) there by building their capacities and reach.
Highlighting the importance of this project, Dhruvi Shah, Chief Executive Officer, Axis Bank Foundation, said, “ Our collaboration with SELCO Foundation is focused towards channelizing human capital in the remotest parts of the Northeast region.
By developing solar-linked systems, developing local leadership and facilitating new livelihood opportunities, we hope to create diversified income channels. Our vision is to contribute significantly towards enhancing the socio-economic landscape of the local communities in the Northeast, thereby nudging them towards self-reliance.”
Through these initiatives, the project will empower rural communities, foster sustainable resource management and improve sustainable livelihoods. Committed to this vision, Axis Bank Foundation along with SELCO Foundation strives to serve as a beacon of positive change and sustainable growth for Northeast India. The program was launched during a 2-day convention that brought together different stakeholders to talk about sustainable livelihood models that encourage the use of renewable energy and last-mile delivery of programs to the rural communities.