Key Highlights
- Award for Sustainability: Roots Foundation awarded in the ‘Reaching the Unreached’ category at INDIAdonates Annual CSR Meet 2024 for its initiatives in sustainable agriculture.
- Extensive Reach: The foundation has impacted over 1 million farmers across 15+ states in India, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
- Diverse Initiatives: Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR), Crop Residue Management (CRM), and Farmer Field Schools have enhanced agricultural sustainability.
- Beyond Agriculture: The foundation also focuses on educational and sports programs that benefit students in Punjab, Haryana, and Karnataka.
Recognizing Sustainable Agricultural Practices
The Roots Foundation was recognized at the Synergy and Sustainability Symposium III, part of the INDIAdonates Annual CSR Meet 2024, for its exceptional work in promoting sustainable agriculture across India. The ‘Reaching the Unreached’ award acknowledges the foundation’s efforts in providing agricultural support to remote regions, impacting over 1 million farmers.
Empowering Farmers with Sustainable Methods
Roots Foundation’s initiatives, including the Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) and Crop Residue Management (CRM), have introduced farmers to sustainable practices that conserve resources and enhance yields. “Our hydroponic classrooms and curriculum strive to encourage students to explore opportunities and experiences in STEM. We are committed to empowering a new generation of scientists, climate advocates, and community leaders,” said Manuela Zamora, NY Sun Works Executive Director.
The DSR program has saved 1,125 million liters of water and involved over 2,000 women in modern agricultural practices. The CRM initiative has also had a significant impact, reaching 50,000 farmers and preventing farmland burning across 500,000 acres in Punjab and Haryana.
Contributing to Education and Sports
In addition to agriculture, the foundation has made strides in education through its School Sports Program (SSP) and Innovative Learning Centres (ILCs), aiming to develop sports skills and academic proficiency among students. “Together, we empower our youngest learners to be agents of change in a warming world,” stated PS 147 Principal Sandra Noyola.
A Unified Effort for Sustainable Development
The INDIAdonates Annual CSR Meet 2024 highlighted the collective efforts of various organizations, including Roots Foundation, in driving societal change through sustainability. “Over the past 10 years, a collaboration between PS 147 and NY Sun Works has brought students a significant understanding of the natural world and keen awareness of the environmental issues impacting our globe,” mentioned Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, reflecting on the importance of educating the younger generation on environmental sustainability.
Forward Momentum for Roots Foundation
The recognition from INDIAdonates underlines the Roots Foundation’s dedication to sustainable rural development and its ongoing commitment to improving the lives of farmers and rural communities through sustainable agricultural practices. This acknowledgment is expected to motivate the foundation and its partners further to continue their impactful work in the agricultural sector and beyond.
