CII Foundation

New Issue: CII Foundation Perspectives – The Viewsletter “Emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, have the potential to further strengthen digital inclusion. Voice-enabled systems, real-time captioning, adaptive learning platforms and accessible financial interfaces can significantly improve usability. However, accessibility must be built into design from the outset, rather than being treated as an add-on.” - Ms. Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Additional Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. This edition explores the theme ‘Digital Empowerment and Financial Inclusion’ — highlighting how technology, accessibility, and community-led interventions can bridge systemic gaps and enable inclusive development for underserved communities. Also featured is the inspiring journey of Rupali Shinde, a CII Foundation Woman Exemplar from Maharashtra, who is empowering women through digital and financial literacy — helping them build confidence, independence, and informed decision-making within their communities. 📖 Read the full issue here: ciifoundation.in/uploads/newsle… . #DigitalInclusion #FinancialInclusion #CIIFoundation #Viewsletter #WomenEmpowerment #InclusiveGrowth #DigitalEmpowerment #CSR #CommunityForChange #SocialImpact #DisabilityInclusion . @sunilmisra @PShirali @jvbakshi @sarbanichakrav1 @yukti_b14 @seematweet @IndiaBusinessDN

As part of our commitment to #WorldEnvironmentDay, CII Foundation is dedicating this month to highlighting the partnerships and initiatives that are driving meaningful environmental impact across communities. Creating cleaner air and more sustainable farming systems requires solutions that work at scale and are rooted in community participation. In partnership with @HDFCBankCSR, CII Foundation has been working with farming communities across Punjab and Haryana to promote sustainable crop residue management practices. Through awareness campaigns, farmer engagement, capacity building, and access to appropriate agricultural machinery, the initiative is supporting a transition towards environmentally responsible farming. What makes this effort meaningful is not just the adoption of new practices, but the collective commitment of farmers, local institutions, and partners working together to reduce environmental impact while strengthening rural livelihoods. Together, we are building climate-resilient communities and advancing pathways for sustainable agricultural growth. Through this month-long series, we celebrate the collective efforts of our partners and communities who are helping create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future. . #SustainableAgriculture #ClimateAction #CleanAir #CommunityForClimate #CIIFoundation #CropResidueManagement #ClimateResilience #RuralDevelopment . @followcii @sunilmisra @PradhanCK @cii4nr @CleanerBetter @moefcc

As part of CII Foundation’s ongoing Education Initiative, efforts are focused on strengthening school infrastructure and creating enabling learning environments that support student growth and development. With the support of #KASAIndia Private Limited, CII Foundation has strengthened the learning environment at Government Model Higher Secondary School, MMDA Colony, Chennai through infrastructure upgrades, classroom renovations, and the transformation of the kindergarten into a vibrant, child-friendly space. The school was honored by the visit of Rajmohan, Hon'ble Minister for Education, Government of Tamil Nadu. He was accompanied by Chandra Mohan, Secretary, Education Department; Kannapan, Director, Education Department; and M. Kabir, Chief Education Officer, Chennai. The dignitaries visited various sections of the campus to review the completed development works, formally inaugurated the newly renovated kindergarten facility by cutting the ribbon and interacted with school representatives. The enhanced campus now provides students with a safer, more engaging, and conducive environment for learning, creating spaces where children can learn, grow, and thrive. Together, we continue to build stronger foundations for quality education and brighter futures. . #EducationForAll #StrengtheningEducation #CIIFoundation #QualityEducation #ChildFriendlySchools #LearningSpaces #CommunityImpact . @followcii @sunilmisra @CII4SR @EduMinOfIndia

Under the Empowering Champions of Change (ECC) Program, led by CII Foundation and supported by #ApraavaEnergy, grassroot women leaders in Rajasthan are driving community action to address one of the key concerns identified during the leadership trainings and through our baseline study — nutrition amongst women and adoloscents. With poor dietary diversity and anaemia continuing to impact rural communities, nutrition emerged as a priority issue highlighted by the 15 women leaders participating in the program. In response, CII Foundation Woman Exemplar Rama Sharma partnered with Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) across all 10 project districts to train nearly 1,500 women on developing and sustaining nutri gardens. Through trainings, exposure visits, and demonstrations, women learned practical, water-efficient cultivation techniques suited to Rajasthan’s local context, while also exploring linkages with government schemes. Today, nutri gardens are flourishing across project villages, supported through the distribution of seeds and protective sheds. Through convergence with Anganwadis, women leaders are also promoting awareness on nutrition and adolescent health — turning learning into action and strengthening community well-being. . #NutritionForAll #NutriGardens #WomenLeadership #CommunityAction #ECCProgram #CIIFoundation . @FollowCII @CII_IWN @CIICWL @MinistryWCD @sunilmisra @CII4WR

As part of the ongoing Waste Management Initiative in Ladakh, CII Foundation, in collaboration with the Municipal Committee Choglamsar and supported by @HDFCBankCSR, marked World Environment Day 2026 with a Mega Clean-Up Drive in Choglamsar under the theme “Inspired by Nature: For Climate, For Our Future.” Bringing together students, teachers, local shopkeepers, community members, municipal representatives, and HDFC Bank employees, the drive reinforced the importance of responsible waste management, environmental stewardship, and community participation in maintaining cleaner public spaces. The campaign also promoted sustainable living through the distribution of cloth bags, encouraging a shift away from single-use plastics. This effort is part of CII Foundation’s broader commitment to strengthening waste management practices, fostering environmental awareness, and building climate-resilient communities across Ladakh through sustained community engagement and collective action. #WorldEnvironmentDay #InspiredByNature #WasteManagement #CommunityAction #ClimateAction #SustainableFuture #CleanEnvironment #HDFCParivartan #CIIFoundation #Ladakh . @followcii @sunilmisra @PradhanCK @cii4nr @CleanerBetter @moefcc @DoWRRDGR_MoJS

World Environment Day 2026 serves as a global reminder that addressing climate change requires immediate, united, and sustained action. By strengthening partnerships and encouraging innovation-driven solutions, the campaign aims to inspire a cleaner, greener, and more resilient future for the world. Read the #CIIblog to know more: shorturl.at/W950U #WorldEnvironmentDay #ClimateAction #Sustainability #WasteToWorth

On #WorldEnvironmentDay, we reflect on the collective actions needed to build a more sustainable and climate-resilient future. This year's theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”, reminds us that addressing climate challenges requires collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to protecting our natural ecosystems. From sustainable agriculture and cleaner air initiatives to water conservation and community-led environmental action, every effort contributes towards strengthening resilience and safeguarding our shared future. Because every mindful action today helps shape a healthier, greener tomorrow. #WorldEnvironmentDay2026 #ClimateAction #InspiredByNature #CommunityForClimate #CIIFoundation #Sustainability #ClimateResilience . @followcii @sunilmisra @PradhanCK @cii4nr @CII4SR @cii4wr @cii4er @CleanerBetter @moefcc @DoWRRDGR_MoJS

Shifting from Habit to Evidence-Based Farming: transforming farmer lives in Ballari, Karnataka Malli Gouda, a red chilli farmer from Orvai village in Ballari, Karnataka, followed a common local practice—spraying crops every few days simply because neighbouring farmers were doing the same. Over time, this increased input costs, excessive chemical use, and the risk of pest resistance. Through CII Foundation’s project “Strengthening Sustainability of the Spices Value Chain through FPOs”, implemented with @CropmintApp, Malli Gouda was introduced to scientific scouting and sticky-trap-based pest monitoring. With regular field guidance, hands-on training, and data-driven recommendations, he learned to make decisions based on actual pest incidence rather than assumptions. Sprays were applied only when required, reducing unnecessary applications and improving overall crop health. The impact extended beyond his own field. Spray frequency reduced by 20–25%, crop protection costs declined by 12%, and crop health improved due to more precise applications. His visible results also sparked interest among neighbouring farmers, encouraging wider adoption of scientific scouting and sticky traps within the community. What changed? Not just one farmer’s practices—but the mindset around crop protection. Because real transformation happens when science replaces assumptions in the field. Read the full Case Study at shorturl.at/rHpJk . #SustainableFarming #EcoFriendlyFarming #GreenAgriculture #ChilliFarming #SpiceValueChain #KarnatakaAgriculture #RedChilliSuccess #FarmerSuccessStories #FPOEmpowerment #AgriInnovation #SmartFarming #ExportReadyProduce #ClimateResilientFarming #CIIFoundation . @FollowCII @sunilmisra @VickeyNimbal @malatheshjm @cii4sr

From Guesswork to Precision: transforming farmer lives in Ballari, Karnataka Soma, a red chilli farmer from Gonahal village in Ballari, Karnataka, faced a major challenge when heavy rainfall triggered wilting in his crop. Like many farmers, he initially relied on visible symptoms and dealer recommendations, risking incorrect diagnosis and unnecessary expenditure. Through CII Foundation’s project “Strengthening Sustainability of the Spices Value Chain through FPOs”, implemented with @CropmintApp, Soma received timely field support and scientific crop advisory. Using systematic scouting and root-level inspection, the actual issue—nematode infestation—was accurately identified. With targeted recommendations and practical guidance, Soma adopted corrective measures that improved crop recovery and reduced avoidable input use. The intervention delivered measurable results. Yield increased from an estimated 10 quintals to 14 quintals, revenue improved to ₹2,42,600, and the farm shifted from a potential loss scenario to a net profit of ₹60,300. Targeted applications also improved input-use efficiency and reduced unnecessary expenditure. What changed? Not just the diagnosis—but the entire approach to decision-making in the field. Because precision and timely intervention can turn uncertainty into resilience. Read the full Case Study at shorturl.at/dX2w5 . #SustainableFarming #BioInputs #EcoFriendlyFarming #ResidueFreeProduce #GreenAgriculture #ChilliFarming #SpiceValueChain #KarnatakaAgriculture #RedChilliSuccess #FarmerSuccessStories #FPOEmpowerment #AgriInnovation #SmartFarming #ExportReadyProduce #ClimateResilientFarming #CIIFoundation . @FollowCII @sunilmisra @sarbanichakrav1 @VickeyNimbal @malatheshjm @CII4SR

Under the Empowering Champions of Change (ECC) Program, led by CII Foundation and supported by #ApraavaEnergy, grassroots women leaders across Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh are being equipped to drive change within their communities. Building on the first phase, the second round of trainings focused on strengthening leadership, community engagement, and field-level action. Baseline findings highlighted limited participation of women in decision-making, low awareness around financial literacy and rights, and restricted access to information on health, nutrition, and safety. Today, women leaders are already taking action on the ground — from addressing nutrition in Rajasthan to building safer communities in Madhya Pradesh — by mobilising groups, conducting awareness sessions, and engaging with local institutions. . #WomenLeadership #CommunityAction #GrassrootsLeadership #FinancialLiteracy #CommunityDevelopment #CIIFoundation . @FollowCII @CII_IWN @CIICWL @MinistryWCD @sunilmisra @CII4WR

Building Confidence through Scientific Advisory: transforming farmer lives in Ballari, Karnataka Maremma, a red chilli farmer from Orvai village in Ballari, Karnataka, relied heavily on neighbouring farmers and local input dealers for crop protection decisions. Sprays were often applied without proper diagnosis, leading to rising costs and inconsistent results. Through CII Foundation’s project “Strengthening Sustainability of the Spices Value Chain through FPOs”, implemented with Farmitopia's @CropmintApp, her farming journey took a more scientific direction. With regular field visits, timely advisory support, and practical guidance on pest and disease diagnosis, Maremma learned to use the right input at the right time, in the right dosage, and only when required. The impact was visible both in the field and in farm economics. Pest and disease pressure reduced through targeted applications, crop health improved, and input use became more efficient. Most significantly, Maremma recorded a net profit of ₹1,25,100—transforming a potential loss situation into a profitable outcome. What changed? Not just her crop management practices—but her confidence as a farmer. Because sustainable farming begins with informed decisions and trusted support. Read the full Case Study at shorturl.at/iYEcj . #SustainableFarming #BioInputs #EcoFriendlyFarming #ResidueFreeProduce #GreenAgriculture #ChilliFarming #SpiceValueChain #KarnatakaAgriculture #RedChilliSuccess #FarmerSuccessStories #FPOEmpowerment #AgriInnovation #SmartFarming #ExportReadyProduce #ClimateResilientFarming #CIIFoundation . @FollowCII @sunilmisra @sarbanichakrav1 @VickeyNimbal @malatheshjm

This #InternationalBiodiversityDay, we celebrate the delicate balance that sustains life — our forests, waterbodies, soil, pollinators, and every living ecosystem that communities depend upon. At CII Foundation, our interventions across sustainable agriculture, waterbody restoration, climate resilience, afforestation, and community-led conservation are rooted in one belief: protecting biodiversity is essential to securing livelihoods and building resilient futures. From reviving traditional waterbodies to promoting sustainable farming practices that reduce ecological stress, every collective action contributes towards restoring harmony between people and nature. Because conserving biodiversity is not just about protecting nature — it is about protecting our shared future. 🌱 #BiodiversityDay #HarmonyWithNature #ClimateAction #SustainableCommunities #CommunityForClimate #CIIFoundation #EnvironmentalSustainability . @followcii @sunilmisra @PradhanCK @cii4nr @CII4SR @cii4wr @cii4er @CleanerBetter @moefcc @DoWRRDGR_MoJS

For Shalini, this recognition was not just an award — it was a moment of gratitude, renewed purpose, and greater responsibility. Congratulations to Shalini on winning the CII Foundation Woman Exemplar Award 2026 — a recognition of her unwavering commitment to supporting children affected by HIV and creating more compassionate communities. Currently working with 150 children affected by HIV, Shalini hopes to bring greater hope, courage, and support to many more children and families. She also speaks about the urgent need to break the fear, stigma, and misconceptions surrounding HIV, so that individuals living with HIV are treated with dignity, empathy, and acceptance. She believes that through collective support and stronger community awareness, meaningful social change is possible. Join us in celebrating and supporting Shalini’s journey of compassion, courage, and community-driven impact. . #CIIFoundation #WomanExemplarAward2026 #WomenExemplars #WomenLeadership #CommunityLeadership #PeerLearning #SocialImpact #GrassrootsLeadership #EmpoweringCommunities #CII4India . @FollowCII @CII_IWN @CIICWL @MinistryWCD @sunilmisra @sarbanichakrav1 @cii4sr @thebetterindia @shethepeople @YourStoryCo @brutindia @FeminisminIndia @JagbaniOnline

What began as a moment of surprise soon turned into a deeply meaningful milestone for Arundhati. Congratulations to Arundhati on winning the CII Foundation Woman Exemplar Award 2026 — a recognition of her unwavering commitment to supporting farming communities and creating meaningful impact at the grassroots level. For Arundhati, this recognition is not just a personal achievement — it is a promise to continue standing beside fellow women farmers and farming communities whenever support is needed. She believes in staying connected, offering help wherever possible, and contributing towards stronger, more resilient communities across the country. Join us in celebrating and supporting Arundhati’s journey of service, solidarity, and grassroots leadership. #CIIFoundation #WomanExemplarAward2026 #WomenExemplars #WomenLeadership #CommunityLeadership #WomenFarmers #CII4India #GrassrootsLeadership #SocialImpact #EmpoweringCommunities . @FollowCII @CII_IWN @CIICWL @MinistryWCD @sunilmisra @sarbanichakrav1 @cii4wr @thebetterindia @shethepeople @YourStoryCo @brutindia @FeminisminIndia @JagbaniOnline

Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) convened a National Consultation on Migrant Workforce in New Delhi today, with Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, Hon’ble Minister of Labour & Employment and Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, Smt Shobha Karandlaje, Minister of State for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Labour and Employment, Government of India and Smt Vandana Gurnani, Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment, Government of India. #MigrantWorkforce #LabourWelfare #InclusiveGrowth #SocialProtection #WorkforceDevelopment #CII #IndustryForDevelopment #CII4India #PublicPrivatePartnership #SkillDevelopment #WorkerWelfare . @followcii @sunilmisra @sarbanichakrav1

What began as a moment of surprise soon turned into a moment of pride and possibility for Kranti. Congratulations to Kranti on winning the CII Foundation Woman Exemplar Award 2026 — a recognition of her commitment to driving meaningful change within communities. In this heartfelt reflection, Kranti shares how unexpected the win felt, and how this journey has opened doors to connect with an inspiring network of women leaders from across the country. For her, this is not just an award, but an opportunity for collaboration, shared learning, and collective action towards building stronger communities. She believes that when women working across diverse issues come together, they create powerful pathways for social transformation — not just for themselves, but for society as a whole. Join us in celebrating and supporting Kranti’s vision of collective leadership, peer learning, and community-driven change. . #CIIFoundation #WomanExemplarAward2026 #WomenExemplars #EducationForAll #GirlsEducation #Mewat #CommunityLeadership #GrassrootsLeadership #SocialImpact #EmpoweringCommunities . @FollowCII @CII_IWN @CIICWL @MinistryWCD @sunilmisra @sarbanichakrav1 @cii4nr @thebetterindia @shethepeople @YourStoryCo @brutindia @FeminisminIndia @JagbaniOnline

From being told that girls’ education did not matter, to becoming a voice of change for thousands of girls in Mewat — Jasmeen’s journey is one of quiet courage, persistence, and purpose. Congratulations to Jasmeen on winning the CII Foundation Woman Exemplar Award 2026 in the Education category — a truly inspiring achievement that reflects her unwavering commitment to empowering girls through education. Receiving this award was not just a personal milestone for her, but a reminder of how far determination can go despite barriers. In this heartfelt moment, Jasmeen reflects on the emotions of winning, remembering her father, and sharing her dream of building greater support systems for girls who are still denied opportunities. Her vision is simple yet powerful — that no girl should have to fight alone for her right to education. Join us in celebrating and supporting Jasmeen’s mission to make education accessible for every girl in Mewat and beyond. Together, we can help create stronger pathways for girls to learn, grow, and lead. . #CIIFoundation #WomanExemplarAward2026 #WomenExemplars #EducationForAll #GirlsEducation #Mewat #CommunityLeadership #GrassrootsLeadership #SocialImpact #EmpoweringCommunities . @FollowCII @CII_IWN @CIICWL @MinistryWCD @sunilmisra @sarbanichakrav1 @cii4nr @thebetterindia @shethepeople @YourStoryCo @brutindia @FeminisminIndia @JagbaniOnline @DainikBhaskar

Pride for Maharashtra 🇮🇳 Kolhapur’s Arundhati Patil was felicitated by Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Hon’ble Minister of Education, GOI, with the prestigious @CIIFoundation Woman Exemplar Award 2026 at the CII Annual Business Summit . Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra Shri @Dev_Fadnavis also addressed the Special Plenary Session at the CII Annual Business Summit in New Delhi, highlighting Maharashtra’s vision for growth, innovation and inclusive development. @CMOMaharashtra @mieknathshinde @SunetraA_Pawar @abitkar_prakash @dbmahadik @dpradhanbjp @EduMinOfIndia @CollectorKolha1 @MahaDGIPR @FollowCII @KDMahadik @CIIEvents #CIIAnnualBusinessSummit26 #CII4India #TheFuture #GlobalEconomy #Industry #Society @CIIFoundation #CIIFoundation #CII4India #NariShakti #kolhapur #krishnamahadik #WomanExemplarAward2026 #Maharashtra #WomenEntrepreneurs #RuralDevelopmen

The first leadership training of our Women Exemplars 2026 was not about teaching women how to become leaders. It was about helping them recognise the leader they already are. Through conversations, reflection, laughter, and honest questions, women challenged common myths around leadership - beyond stereotypes and the usual assumptions we grow up with. One of the most powerful moments of the session was when the women wrote letters to themselves, pausing to appreciate their own strength, resilience, journeys, and impact. In a world where women are often taught to be self-critical before self-compassionate, the activity became a quiet but important reminder to acknowledge themselves with the same kindness and encouragement they so freely give to others. The women also created mini podcasts in pairs, capturing each other’s stories, turning points, and leadership journeys. In listening to one another, they didn’t just document stories. They celebrated courage, and community leadership. Another special moment came when the women came together to build a symbolic bridge, reflecting on how individual journeys, when connected, create the collective strength of #WomanExemplarNetwork. . . #WomenExemplars2026 #CIIFoundation #WomenLeadership #GrassrootsLeadership #LeadershipJourney #WomenChangemakers #CommunityLeadership #WomenEmpowerment #LeadershipDevelopment #VoicesOfChange #StorytellingForChange #WomenSupportingWomen . . @FollowCII @CII_IWN @CIICWL @MinistryWCD @sunilmisra @sarbanichakrav1 @cii4nr @cii4er @cii4wr @cii4sr

Congratulations to all the winners of the CII Foundation Woman Exemplar Award 2026 and to every inspiring grassroots leader recognised at the CII Annual Business Summit 2026. Your work across #Health, #Education, #CommunityStrengthening and #MicroEnterprise reflects the power of community-led change and the extraordinary impact of women’s leadership at the grassroots. We look forward to working together to deepen social impact, strengthen communities, and continue building pathways for inclusive and sustainable development across India. #CIIFoundation #CII4India