In a bold and inspiring move to redefine rural education, Vedanta ESL Steel Limited’s CEO, Ravish Sharma, launched Learning Centres in Bokaro. Backed by Chairman Anil Agarwal’s visionary pledge, this transformative initiative empowers underprivileged children with digital tools, coaching support, and community care. Sharma’s passionate leadership signals a powerful shift toward grassroots upliftment, education-first development, and a brighter future for India’s next generation.
Vedanta’s Philanthropic Vision
The CEO Ravish Sharma highlighted the vision of Vedanta Chairman Anil Agarwal, noting that he has pledged to donate 75% of his wealth to social development. “He (Anil Agarwal) belongs to Bihar, and his commitment to community welfare is deeply rooted,” he stated. One of Vedanta’s flagship initiatives, Nand Ghars, has already transformed thousands of Anganwadi centres across India with smart technology and infrastructure. Follow the currentbokaro channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va98epRFSAsy7Jyo0o1x
Focus on Education Over Infrastructure
While many expect CSR initiatives to focus on roads or electricity, the CEO emphasised that Vedanta’s top priority is education. “An educated child not only stands on their own but also uplifts the entire community,” he said. The company also places strong emphasis on women empowerment through Self Help Groups (SHGs) and local partnerships.
First Field Visit as CEO
This marked the CEO’s first visit outside the company premises for a CSR event. He expressed gratitude to American India Foundation (AIF) and local leaders for selecting Dhandabar and Alkusha villages. He acknowledged that beyond corporate funding, community involvement is vital to sustaining any developmental project.
Partnership is Key to Success
The CEO stressed that true success lies in collaborative action. “When the company, NGOs, and local leaders work together, the outcomes are long-lasting,” he said. He assured families and children that the selected locations will receive not only company attention but also continued support from local ward members and community representatives. Follow the currentbokaro channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va98epRFSAsy7Jyo0o1x
Bridging the Educational Gap
Explaining the objective behind the Learning Centres, the CEO said that many children attend school but fall behind due to lack of teachers or study support. These centres are designed to bridge that gap by offering coaching and academic resources locally. “We’re bringing facilities found in elite schools and coaching centres right here to your village,” he added.
Expansion Plan and Future Commitment
The company plans to open six such centres in the region soon. The CEO emphasised that this is not an act of charity but a responsibility. “This is our way of giving back to the land and community that helped build our plant,” he said. He underscored that the goal is not just to spend CSR funds, but to create sustainable, locally-owned educational platforms.
Corporate Responsibility, Not Charity
He concluded his address by stressing that this initiative should not be seen as a grand favour by the company, but rather as its moral and social duty. “This is a small gesture compared to the contribution the community has made to our growth,” he said. Through similar past efforts like archery training centres, Vedanta has shown that community-inclusive development is at the heart of its CSR philosophy. Follow the currentbokaro channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va98epRFSAsy7Jyo0o1x
(INPUTS provided by ESL spokesperson Sarabjit Kaur)
