The Business Bytes
Mumbai, November 28, 2024 (TBB Bureau): LTIMindtree Foundation, the CSR arm of LTIMindtree, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Centurion University of Technology & Management (CUTM) to launch the ‘Shelter to Habitation’ project. This transformative initiative aims to construct over 80 all-weather homes and community infrastructure in cyclone-prone tribal villages of Odisha’s Gajapati district, benefiting approximately 3,000 residents across Alajhola, Gayaljuba, and Rashika Rajpur.
The project, fully funded by LTIMindtree Foundation under its CSR mandate, focuses on providing sustainable housing with climate-resilient designs and modern features like solar lighting and rainwater harvesting. Each home will include essential amenities such as a bedroom, living room, kitchen, and toilet, offering a dignified living environment.
In addition to housing, the initiative will develop vital infrastructure such as village roads, a community center, an Anganwadi (childcare center), solar street lighting, and a drinking water system. This comprehensive approach aims to address both immediate and long-term needs, ensuring a robust foundation for community development.
The project actively involves local villagers in the construction process, enabling them to earn fair wages while acquiring valuable skills. This participatory model fosters a sense of ownership, sweat equity, and sustainability within the community, contributing to its long-term resilience.
Paneesh Rao, Chief Sustainability Officer, LTIMindtree, emphasized: “This project reflects our commitment to empowering communities by addressing their most pressing needs. Beyond offering sustainable housing, we are creating opportunities for active community involvement, helping them develop skills, take ownership, and shape their future.”
Dr. Supriya Pattanayak, Vice Chancellor of CUTM, added: “This partnership aligns with our mission to drive meaningful societal impact. By addressing critical housing needs, we are laying the groundwork for sustainable development in these underserved communities.”
The first batch of homes is expected to be completed by mid-2025, with the entire project slated for completion by early 2026. This collaboration underscores the importance of partnerships in fostering resilience, sustainability, and long-term growth for marginalized communities.
The ‘Shelter to Habitation’ project represents a significant step towards improving the quality of life and ensuring a sustainable future for Odisha’s tribal populations.
