16 February 2024, Balotra: In a significant move aimed at enhancing community well-being, Syngenta India has announced plans to transform a piece of land adjacent to the Balotra Railway station into a park. Set to feature amenities such as walking paths, children’s swings, an open gym, and lush flower-bearing hedges and trees, the park aims to offer a haven for locals to enjoy clean air and bolster their health and wellness. Additionally, the initiative seeks to provide a safe space for elders and residents to socialize, fostering a sense of community cohesion and camaraderie.
The upcoming park, named VANDE BHARAT PARK, adjacent to the Balotra Railway station, is set to prioritize safety and convenience for its users. Fencing will enclose the park on all sides, ensuring a secure environment, while the installation of electricity poles will provide ample lighting for safety and security during evening hours. The park’s ambiance will be further enhanced by vibrant flowering plants and trees, adding to its allure. Additionally, provisions for separate male and female toilet blocks and a drinking water station will cater to the comfort of visitors. The foundation stone for VANDE BHARAT PARK was laid by Shri Kailash Chaudhary, MP Barmer-Jaisalmer and Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, marking a significant step towards community enhancement and well-being.
Hailing Syngenta India’s CSR move, Chaudhary said that access to safe and clean areas for walking, jogging or strolling is essential for improving the quality of life for all, particularly the children, women and the elderly. He highlighted that the Honorable Prime Minister has repeatedly stressed on the importance of exercising for good health and mental wellbeing. He urged the people of Balotra to make good use of the park.
“Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives from companies like Syngenta India, encompassing provisions such as electricity, drinking water facilities, improved marketing yards, solar irrigation, and soil health testing, play a pivotal role in addressing various socio-economic challenges and fostering sustainable development,” stated Chaudhary. He emphasized the significant impact of such initiatives in both rural and urban communities, underscoring their role in enhancing overall well-being.
Chaudhary highlighted Syngenta India’s proactive response during times of crisis, including the Covid-19 pandemic and floods, where the company extended crucial support to alleviate the hardships faced by people. Through CSR funds, Syngenta India provided essential supplies such as food packets, safety kits, and even hospital beds and advanced medical diagnostic equipment, demonstrating a commitment to community welfare during challenging times.
Susheel Kumar, Managing Director and Country Head of Syngenta India, extended his heartfelt wishes on the occasion and emphasized the company’s unwavering commitment to supporting rural communities and society at large across the country. He highlighted Syngenta’s initiatives, including the installation of hand pumps and RO facilities in various locations for the benefit of the people.
Kumar further underscored Syngenta India’s proactive stance in times of adversity, citing instances where the company provided essential support to communities in need. This included the distribution of safety kits, installation of CT Scan machine at Ambah Civil Hospital Morena to help the local community, distributing medicines, groceries, and other essentials during floods, droughts, or any other calamities, reflecting the company’s ethos of corporate responsibility and community welfare.
Dr. KC Ravi, Chief Sustainability Officer at Syngenta India, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting its potential to empower women, children, and the elderly to enhance their physical, mental, and social well-being. He extended gratitude to the Nagar Palika and the Railways for entrusting Syngenta with the opportunity to elevate the quality of life for the people of Balotra. This project marks a significant departure for Syngenta, as its previous initiatives have primarily focused on farmer education, safety, and rural infrastructure.
Prominent among those present on the occasion were dignitaries which included Dr Arun Chaudhary, MLA, Pachpadra, Smt Sumitra jain, Chairperson and Smt Hemlata Sundesh, Co Chairperson, Balotra Nagar Palika and Shri Babusingh Rajguru, Zila Adhyaksh Balotra and Shri Hanuman Chaudhary, Head of Jodhpur and Pawan Kumar Sikarwar, Head Barmer region of Syngenta India Pvt Ltd.
