NTPC Bongaigaon has signed an MoA with Zankla Foundation to launch Project SRIJAN, a ₹15 lakh CSR initiative that will train beneficiaries in eco-friendly toy making and embroidery. The programme aims to promote sustainable livelihoods, women empowerment and preservation of indigenous cultural heritage in Assam.
Key Highlights
- NTPC Bongaigaon signs MoA with Zankla Foundation to launch Project SRIJAN.
- ₹15 lakh CSR initiative will train beneficiaries in eco-friendly toy making and embroidery.
- Project will support sustainable livelihoods and preserve indigenous Bodo cultural heritage.
- Women beneficiaries will receive continuous mentoring through Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club.
New Delhi, July 13: NTPC Bongaigaon has partnered with the Zankla Foundation, the CSR arm of Zankla Studio, by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to implement Project SRIJAN, a community-focused Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. The programme is designed to promote sustainable artisan livelihoods while preserving the rich indigenous cultural heritage of Assam through eco-friendly toy making and embroidery art.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Arnab Maitra, Executive Director and Head of Project, NTPC Bongaigaon, V. Jayanarayanan, Chief General Manager (HR, CSR, LA & R&R), NTPC Limited, and P. K. Sahu, AGM (CSR), NTPC Limited, along with senior officials from NTPC Bongaigaon and representatives of the Zankla Foundation.
Under Project SRIJAN, 15 beneficiaries from two NTPC project-affected villages will receive structured training, skill development and capacity building in sustainable toy making and embroidery. Beyond technical training, the project includes continuous mentoring, market-oriented guidance and handholding support, enabling participants to convert their newly acquired skills into long-term income-generating livelihood opportunities.
A unique feature of the initiative is the active involvement of the Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club, NTPC Bongaigaon, which will mentor and regularly engage with women beneficiaries throughout the programme. This sustained support aims to encourage entrepreneurship, build confidence and help participants establish sustainable micro-enterprises based on traditional craftsmanship.
The project leverages the expertise of Zankla Studio, an Assam-based creative and social enterprise founded by Kirat Brahma, an alumnus of the National Institute of Design (NID). Renowned for its heritage-inspired handcrafted soft toys and cultural storytelling, the studio has empowered more than 70 artisans and positively impacted over 30 livelihoods by blending contemporary design with the traditions of the Bodo community and Northeast India.
Speaking on the occasion, Arnab Maitra emphasised the importance of CSR programmes that create long-term livelihood opportunities at the grassroots through skill development, creativity and market linkages. Kirat Brahma said Project SRIJAN would nurture local talent while preserving indigenous heritage through sustainable craftsmanship. Supported by NTPC’s financial assistance of up to ₹15 lakh plus applicable GST for a 12-month period, the initiative seeks to transform local creativity into economic empowerment and cultural pride.
Conclusion
Project SRIJAN reflects NTPC Bongaigaon’s commitment to inclusive development by combining skill development, sustainable livelihoods and preservation of indigenous heritage through innovative CSR initiatives.
