Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Limited (Crompton) has been honoured with the Mahatma Award 2026 in the Community Initiatives category for its social impact work through the Crompton CSR Foundation (CCF), the company said.

The Mahatma Award 2026, an initiative of the Mahatma Foundation hosted by Liveweek Group, recognised CCF’s work in strengthening water security and rural livelihoods through Project Jal Jeevan, and in expanding women’s access to technical careers through Project Saksham.

The award recognises CCF’s approach of addressing community needs through sustained interventions, local partnerships and measurable outcomes. Its initiatives span water conservation, skills development, education and community care.

PROJECT JAL JEEVAN

Project Jal Jeevan addresses water insecurity in Ahilyanagar in Maharashtra and in Sirohi and Pali in Rajasthan, where declining groundwater levels and variable rainfall affect agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods.

The programme combines water harvesting, rejuvenation of water structures, groundwater recharge, participatory water budgeting and improved agricultural practices. Water Security Committees, women farmers and self-help groups (SHGs) contribute to local planning and water management.

During FY 2024–26, the project rejuvenated 378 water structures, creating storage potential of 27,315 lakh litres. It added 2,253 acres to cultivation and reached 1.67 lakh farmers, including more than 50,000 women. It engaged 1,468 SHGs and reported a 16% increase in household incomes in intervention areas.

An independent third-party impact assessment found that water in wells and borewells became accessible at depths 20–60 feet shallower, while crop yields increased by 100%. It reported that 84% of farmers diversified into higher-value crops, and that the share of households earning Rs.1.5–2 lakh annually rose from 13% to 25%. Seasonal migration stopped for 70% of the households covered by the assessment.

PROJECT SAKSHAM

Project Saksham focuses on expanding women’s participation in traditionally male-dominated electrical and technical occupations. Implemented with Tata STRIVE, it combines technical training, workplace exposure, certification and placement support.

During FY 2024–26, the project supported 102 women through Assistant Electrician training, and 92 secured employment, a placement rate of about 90%. Based on first-year salaries, the placements represent annualised income opportunities of Rs.1.01 crore. The project also supported 75 women employed in manufacturing facilities in Goa and Baddi to strengthen their technical and supervisory capabilities.

“At Crompton, we believe that meaningful social impact comes from addressing community needs through sustained interventions and practical solutions,” said Anita Pansare, Head – Innovation and ESG & Chief Technology Officer at Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Limited.

“Our focus remains on working closely with communities and implementation partners to build local capabilities, create sustainable livelihood opportunities and contribute to long-term development,” she said.

Through Jal Jeevan and Saksham, CCF addresses distinct but interconnected development priorities, linking environmental sustainability with rural livelihoods and women’s economic participation, the company said. The Mahatma Award 2026 recognises these sustained, partnership-led efforts.