The Business Bytes
Bhubaneswar, October 21, 2024 (TBB Bureau): In a powerful display of community service and compassion, the Jindal Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Jindal Steel & Power, marked Seva Divas across the country to celebrate the birthday of its Chairperson, Shallu Jindal—an acclaimed philanthropist, social leader, and renowned Kuchipudi danseuse.
Seva Divas, observed on this special occasion, reflected the Foundation’s unwavering mission to build a more inclusive India by uplifting vulnerable and underprivileged communities, helping them lead lives of dignity and fulfillment. The day was packed with social initiatives spanning various states, embodying Smt. Jindal’s lifelong dedication to community empowerment and the betterment of society.
In an inspiring message to community service partners, Smt. Jindal expressed her heartfelt gratitude, stating, “I am truly thankful for your warm wishes and the dedicated service activities honouring my birthday. Your support strengthens my resolve to work even harder for societal betterment. Together, we can create a positive impact and bring smiles to those in need.”
In line with Smt. Jindal’s vision, the Jindal Foundation rolled out numerous activities in states including Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, and Haryana, benefiting the most marginalized sections of society.
Medical camps, veterinary health services, and nutrition support were organized for senior citizens, hospital patients, and children in care homes. Recognizing the importance of environmental sustainability, thousands of trees were planted by community volunteers, students from OP Jindal University, and local eco-leaders, reinforcing efforts to restore ecological balance. Additionally, mosquito nets and blankets were distributed to underprivileged families to provide essential protection and comfort.
The Foundation’s flagship hospitals, including OP Jindal Hospitals in Chhattisgarh, hosted multiple healthcare camps in senior citizen homes, orphanages, and shelters, underlining their commitment to accessible healthcare for all.
At OP Jindal Schools in Raigarh, Angul, Patratu, and Barbil, students led Swachh Bharat Abhiyan initiatives, conducted tree plantation drives, and organized creative arts activities, while also distributing food and clothing to orphanages and hospitals, extending their reach to the most vulnerable.
In tribal areas such as Tensa and Kasia, the Foundation organized friendly football matches for local youth and introduced a new ambulance service to cater to these underserved regions. Children from the Jindal Sports Hostel in Deojhar and Barbil, both tribal-dominated areas, enthusiastically participated in creative activities, including a poster-making competition in honor of Smt. Jindal.
Other notable events included Nukkad Nataks to promote skill development, community property repairs by Skill Centre students, health check-ups at orphanages, and sports training camps—all of which showcased the spirit of teamwork and service.
The nationwide observance of Seva Divas reflected Shallu Jindal’s deep-seated values of kindness, selflessness, and dedication to social causes. Through the Jindal Foundation’s efforts, her birthday was celebrated not only as a personal milestone but as a day of giving back to society.
Beyond her leadership at the Jindal Foundation, which has positively impacted over 15 million lives through its wide-ranging social upliftment programs, Smt. Jindal holds several prestigious positions. She serves as the Chancellor of OP Jindal University in Chhattisgarh and the Vice-President of the Flag Foundation of India. She is also the ex-chairperson of the National Bal Bhawan and Founder President of the Young FICCI Ladies Organisation (YFLO).
Her contributions to society have been recognized with numerous national and international accolades, including the Golden Peacock Award for social leadership in London, the CMO Asia Best Social Entrepreneur Award in Singapore, the International Woman of the Year award in Chicago, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from CSR Times.
As a true cultural icon, Shallu Jindal continues to inspire with her work, seamlessly blending her passion for the arts with a deep commitment to social leadership. The initiatives undertaken on Seva Divas stand as a testament to her enduring impact on society and her resolve to uplift the lives of the most disadvantaged.
