Vedanta support for the vision of a truly healthy and educated India

To fulfill the line with the commitment to support the women and child welfare department, Vedanta has joined hands with Anganbadi programmes in Karnataka. Now Vedanta is all set to work through its Foundation and handed out the first set of uniforms, pre-school education material and play material to children who are a part of the ICDS Anganwadi programme being run by the Government of Karnataka. Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dr. Veerappa Moily presided over the function, held in Chickballapur District, on the outskirts of Bangalore.

Speaking at the function Dr. Veerappa Moily, said, "By making available better infrastructure and facilities at the anganwadis we are enabling better future for children from the bottom of the pyramid. It is indeed heartening to see Vedanta Foundation Sesa Goa come forward to support the vision of a truly healthy educated India."

Ms. S Chaamundi, National Project Head, Vedanta Foundation said, "Karnataka as a state occupies a special place within the heart of the Vedanta Community. It is a matter of great pride for us to be associated with this project and hope that our small contribution will help take the anganwadi project to a higher level."

It is noted that Vedanta through its Foundation had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the District Administration of Chickballapur, Bangalore Urban, Bangalore Rural and Ramnagara Karnataka to adopt and support 2635 Anganwadi Centres.

As a part of its commitment, Vedanta Foundation will make available to these children uniforms, pre-school textbooks, play material etc and also help increase the nutritional value by providing one extra meal a day to anganwadi children.

It is noted that through 167 formal partnerships with NGOs, government bodies, academic institutions and hospitals, Vedanta through its foundation has reached out to 2.7 million people in 550 villages. The group has invested more than INR 180 Crores in various programmes through 2010 - 11. 10 lakh students have benefited through its computer education programme.