RGVN Executive Director Urges Big 4 Companies To Collaborate On CSR Projects In Northeast

Guwahati: The Executive Director of Rashtriya Gramin Vikas Nidhi (RGVN) Amiya Kr. Sharma recently discussed the challenges of securing corporate social responsibility (CSR) funding for grassroots organizations in the Northeast.

During an exclusive interview with Business North East (BNE), the executive director highlighted the limited work given to organizations like RGVN, the lack of funds, and the need for innovative projects to address inadequacy in the Northeast. He also talked about the challenges NGOs face and that companies like EY (Ernst and Young) and KPMG should collaborate on CSR projects in the northeastern reg

 "Approaching corporations for funding involves much effort as we need to write proposals, leverage networks, and identify internal champions, which are mandatory within these companies," Amiya Kr. Sharma told BNE, emphasizing the need to balance agriculture with non-traditional livelihood sectors. He stressed integrating agriculture with non-traditional sectors like fisheries and handloom development to balance income generation. 

Amiya Kr. Sharma said he was initially optimistic about CSR rules mandating 2 per cent of profits for social initiatives. However, the reality has been underwhelming, especially for organizations outside metro hubs like Delhi or Mumbai. “The competition is intense,” the executive director said.

“A skilled team amid uncertain funding is a major challenge for organizations like RGVN. They prioritize minimizing risk and securing consistent projects to keep their team engaged. They focus on innovative project designs, such as poverty alleviation programs, to benefit recipients. However, funding remains the biggest obstacle,” Amiya Kr. Sharma said.

RGVN aligns its goals with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on poverty alleviation, gender empowerment, and climate resilience. They also prioritize cross-cutting issues like gender equality, digital literacy, and addressing the specific needs of vulnerable communities. However, limited funding often restricts their ability to scale up and innovate further.
 
One successful project RGVN has implemented is reviving Eri cultivation, which had been abandoned due to cultural stigmas. By introducing a program for end-to-end Eri production, they created a sustainable livelihood option and a brand.

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“RGVN's strength lies in its grassroots approach, tailoring initiatives to the specific needs of each community. This approach ensures impactful and sustainable projects. The challenge remains to generate resources to execute these ideas effectively and help deserving beneficiaries without compromising quality,” Amiya Kr. Sharma said.

“Working in this sector is both rewarding and challenging. Sustainable growth requires consistent funding and support. RGVN urges investors and organizations to recognize and support innovative, community-driven efforts, building a more inclusive and sustainable future,” the executive director of RGNV further said during the exclusive BNE interview.