- ESL Steel Limited celebrated Raksha Bandhan with 25 women beneficiaries in Bokaro, promoting jute-based livelihoods, entrepreneurship, economic independence and sustainable community development through Project Jivika.
Jharkhand News : As part of its Raksha Bandhan celebrations, ESL Steel Limited organised a special programme at the Jute Model Centre in Gidhtand (Hutupather) under Project Jivika. The programme brought together 25 women beneficiaries engaged in jute-based livelihood activities.
The initiative was organised under ESL Steel’s Employee Volunteering programme, which encourages employees to actively participate in and contribute to community development initiatives. The programme focused on promoting women’s entrepreneurship, self-reliance and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
ESL Steel Officials Visit Jute Model Centre
The programme was attended by Mr. Durga Prasanna Panda, Factory Manager, ESL Steel Limited; Mr. Binod Kumar, Head-Safety & Sustainability; Mr. Rakesh Mishra, Manager-Public Relations & Stakeholder Management; and Mr. Kunal Daripa, Head-CSR, ESL Steel Limited.
The dignitaries visited the centre, interacted with the women beneficiaries and observed their production activities. They also reviewed the range of jute products developed by the women.
Focus on Sustainable Livelihood Opportunities
The CSR team presented an overview of Project Jivika and the Jute Model Centre. The initiative focuses on creating sustainable livelihood opportunities and strengthening women-led enterprises.
During the interaction, the beneficiaries shared their experiences, achievements, challenges and aspirations for expanding their businesses.
Women Empowerment Strengthens Communities
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ravish Sharma, CEO & Whole-Time Director, ESL Steel Limited, said, “Raksha Bandhan is a celebration of trust, care and enduring bonds. Through Project Jivika, we are extending that spirit beyond the traditional celebration by building stronger bonds with the communities around us.”
He said that when women gain the skills, confidence and opportunities to become economically independent, entire families and communities move forward.
“Our endeavour is to create sustainable livelihood pathways that enable rural women to transform their capabilities into lasting economic opportunities,” he added.
The dignitaries appreciated the determination and progress demonstrated by the women beneficiaries. They encouraged them to continue their journey towards self-reliance, entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods.
Emphasis on Collective Entrepreneurship
Ms. Basanti Devi, CEO, Jivika Srijan Shakti Producer Company Limited, highlighted the importance of collective entrepreneurship. She also stressed the need for stronger market linkages and collaborative efforts to create sustainable and scalable opportunities for women-led enterprises.
The programme concluded with a traditional Rakhi-tying ceremony, symbolising mutual respect, trust and the strong bond between the community and ESL Steel.
A Celebration Beyond Raksha Bandhan
The occasion served as a platform to recognise the entrepreneurial spirit of rural women and reaffirm ESL Steel’s commitment to inclusive growth, women empowerment and sustainable community development.
Through Project Jivika, ESL Steel continues to support women in building skills, strengthening livelihoods and creating greater economic opportunities, contributing towards a more resilient and self-reliant rural community.
