Lumshnong, Feb 16: Dalmia Bharat Foundation (DBF), the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Ltd (DCBL), is enabling the marginalised communities through digital and financial literacy initiatives in Meghalaya.
These projects entail a variety of training programmes tailored for men, women and youth to enhance their digital skills and improve their income prospects. One of their notable digital literacy endeavours is the ‘World on Wheels’ (WoW) programme, which involves equipped buses with digital literacy labs to provide e-education and digital resources in rural areas.
Additionally, the Common Service Lab (CSL) in Lumshnong hosts special sessions focused on digital and financial literacy modules. These initiatives have made a significant impact, positively transforming the lives of over 250 individuals and paving the way for sustainable livelihoods.
Merida Bareh, a beneficiary from Mynkre village in Meghalaya, was a daily wage worker who got a job as a skilled office assistant in an organised sector through participation in the CSL programme.
“Acquiring computer skills and securing employment in the organised sector truly transformed my life. Today, I am happily married, residing in a rented house with my husband and continuing to support my aunt and younger brother,” said Bareh.
Commenting on the company’s initiatives in the region, Raju Ranjan Prasad, Asst. Executive Director, Dalmia Cement emphasized, “At Dalmia Cement, we are deeply committed to promoting well-being and socio-economic development in the communities surrounding our region of operations… Through these programmes, we aim to bridge the digital gap in underserved communities by providing access to digital education and services, empowering them towards self-reliance and better livelihoods.”
The World on Wheels (WOW) initiative is a collaborative effort between HP Inc and the Government of India’s Digital India Initiative.
