03 September 2015, National:India suffers from gender disparity in primary and secondary education, and is yet to achieve the gender parity in tertiary education, outlined in the millennium development goals. Recognising this need, Tata Power has implemented special projects in schools — such as e-learning, adult literacy and scholarships — in line with government’s Sarv Shiksha Abhiyan.
Tata Power has aligned its women-centric initiatives in line with the Modi government’s ‘Beti Padhao’ scheme, thereby, working on a centered strategy that focuses on scholarships, literacy, and empowerment, to slacken gender discrimination.The initiative aims to promote girls’ education, and ensure zero school drop-outs due to economic or social reasons.
About this initiative, Anil Sardana, MD and CEO, Tata Power, said ‘Tata Power’s community development initiatives have always focused on a holistic development of women, which include healthcare, sanitation, education and livelihood. Tata Power has always endeavored to promote the well-being of its stakeholders and communities by undertaking initiatives that benefit people in more ways than one. We hope that, through our efforts, we are able to boost the government’s efforts towards educating and protecting girl child.’
The high rates of child marriage in India, is one of the core reasons behind maternal deaths.Tata Power’s efforts in educating women has not only helped in the development of the community but has also helped to reduce child marriages.
Tata Power has also initiated various skill development and employment opportunities for women to ensure the community women have access to livelihood options in addition to education opportunities. In addition, the company has also introduced remedial coaching centres for secondary class students from underprivileged sections of the society. The programmes are currently active in Mumbai, Jojobera, Haldia, Khopoli and Dherand.