Alstom, a renowned global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, has taken a significant step towards empowering and uplifting the communities in and around Madhepura, Bihar. The company has introduced three key initiatives aimed at providing education, skill development, and healthcare awareness to local children, youth, and women. These impactful projects, launched in collaboration with The American India Foundation Trust (AIF), SEEDS Impact, and Learning Links Foundation (LLF), are set to benefit over 3,300 individuals residing in seven villages near Madhepura.
Olivier Loison, the Managing Director of Alstom India, expressed the company’s commitment to making a positive impact on the Madhepura community. He stated, “Madhepura is India’s eloco capital, hosting our world-class electric locomotive manufacturing facility. Understanding the needs of not only Madhepura but also the surrounding towns and villages, we have consistently contributed to CSR initiatives over the years. This year, our projects focus on healthcare, education, and skill development, laying the foundation for a stronger and more sustainable society.”
The first initiative, in partnership with AIF, addresses women’s health and hygiene. Anemia and poor menstrual hygiene practices have adversely affected young adolescent girls in rural India. Alstom aims to impart menstrual hygiene practices to over 2,500 girls through sensitization and orientation sessions. The girls will receive reusable sanitary napkins and a lucky iron leaf designed to infuse iron while cooking meals, thus combating anemia and enhancing mental and physical capacity, ultimately improving work and educational performance.
The second initiative, in collaboration with SEEDS Impact, aims to provide industry-endorsed vocational training to youth in Madhepura. The training will focus on trades such as Sewing Machine Operation, Solar PV Installation, and Electrician work. After receiving formal certification, the youth will have better employment prospects, leading to social and economic empowerment. SEEDS Impact targets around 270 rural youth, aiming to offer employability opportunities to a minimum of 70% of certified individuals.
The third initiative, led by LLF, focuses on implementing the STEAM Shakti program in Government schools in Madhepura, benefiting over 600 students. This program aims to promote an innovation mindset, scientific temperament, and 21st-century life skills, fostering holistic development among rural students. The program also equips teachers with the skills to integrate STEAM practices into their teaching approaches.
Alstom has a strong commitment to improving the living conditions and economic possibilities of communities around its facilities. The company has been instrumental in providing better infrastructural amenities to schools, offering training programs for children, and spreading awareness on sanitation and hygiene. These initiatives are carried out in collaboration with local and international NGOs that have a successful track record of implementing impactful projects.
Alstom, known for its comprehensive portfolio of sustainable mobility solutions, generated revenues of €16.5 billion for the fiscal year ending on 31 March 2023. In India, Alstom continues to be a strategic partner in supporting the country’s rail revolution, introducing breakthrough technologies and contributing to the vision of Make-in-India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
By launching these community initiatives, Alstom reaffirms its dedication to fostering a brighter and more promising future for the residents of Madhepura and exemplifies the spirit of corporate social responsibility.