Companies in India have adopted different methodologies in planning and implementing their mandated CSR interventions, within the ambit of the CSR law. Two broad trends have emerged - the first being partnering with an external not-for-profit implementation agency and the second being direct implementation through own registered corporate foundation.

Thrive addresses some of the most asked questions on Ambuja Foundation's corporate partnerships through a conversation with Manoj Agarwal - DGM at Ambuja Foundation.

Given the increasing trend of corporates partnering with external CSR implementing agencies to execute their CSR, the task of ascertaining the credibility and efficacy of an implementing NGO is daunting for many corporates.

On 20th May'2020, the eastern part of India, especially Kolkata and its surrounding 5 districts (East Midnapore, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Howrah and Hooghly), was devastated by a powerful cyclone named AMPHAN.

First held in 1974 by the UN to raise awareness on environmental issues, World Environment Day

So why is research so important? With so many stakeholders taking a focused, localized view to tackling problems, there is a need for larger players to play a leadership role in looking at India's problems with a macro lens view.

With the increasing amounts of money being given to social causes, social impact assessment has been a key area of concern for charities and philanthropic foundations, for some time now.

Subrata Mondal, Chief General Manager of NABARD, East Regional Office, Kolkata along with Sulekha Roy, Assistant General Manager visited Ambuja Foundation projects in Sankrail, West Bengal - spending the day with farmers, women, SEDI students and Self-Help Group members.

The recently released 'Global Philanthropy Report - Perspectives on the Global Foundation Sector' has found that an increasing number of Foundations (42%) recognise the importance of 'partnerships with other philanthropic institutions' as a key element to achieving their goals.

Ambuja Foundations efforts in strengthening the value chain for cotton farmers was showcased at the recent Global Economic Summit, held in February in Mumbai.

Godrej Agrovet Ltd and Ambuja Foundation have come together to 'double farmer's incomes' and improve standards of living via a Sustainable Livelihood Development Initiative in the Raipur district of Chattisgarh.

As I extend my warm and heartfelt New Year wishes to you, I also take the opportunity to reflect upon the year gone by.