Jharsuguda: Demonstrating its dedication to impactful community development, Vedanta Aluminium’s Subhalaxmi Cooperative recently honored 50 high-achieving Class 10 students from Jharsuguda for their impressive results in the recent board examinations.
This initiative was launched under the Mahila Kalyan Panthi Fund, a distinctive program by the Subhalaxmi Cooperative that channels contributions from individual members into various community welfare projects.
The award ceremony took place at the District Cultural Office in Jharsuguda, celebrating the academic accomplishments of the students while emphasizing the contributions of women-led organizations in enhancing educational opportunities and community welfare. The event was graced by Yuvraj Singh, CEO of the Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS), Aditya Parida, Branch Manager of IDBI Bank, members of Self Help Groups (SHG), representatives from Vedanta Aluminium, and the students along with their families.
As one of the largest women-led self-help cooperatives in Odisha, Subhalaxmi Cooperative is significantly supported by Vedanta Aluminium. It has empowered thousands of rural women by enabling entrepreneurship, providing access to affordable financing, and fostering sustainable livelihoods. The scholarships awarded were made possible through the Cooperative’s innovative Mahila Kalyan Panthi Fund.
This fund is sustained by a one percent contribution from each loan disbursed to members, creating a community welfare corpus that offers educational scholarships, maternity support, funeral assistance, and loan waivers. Over the years, it has benefitted more than 1,700 members and their families, providing financial aid exceeding 35 lakh rupees.
On this occasion, C Chandru, CEO of Vedanta Aluminium – Jharsuguda, stated, “The remarkable academic success of these young students reflects the strong support systems present in their communities. The Mahila Kalyan Panthi Fund exemplifies how collective efforts can forge significant opportunities, enhance social security, and inspire the next generation to aspire for greater achievements. We take pride in collaborating with Subhalaxmi Cooperative to promote rural education and empower communities through sustainable, women-led growth.”
Yuvraj Singh, CEO of ORMAS, also shared insights on the initiative, noting, “Subhalaxmi Cooperative has shown how women-led organizations can act as powerful catalysts for social change. The Mahila Kalyan Panthi Fund not only provides essential support for member families but also fosters education and higher ambitions among young students. Such initiatives are crucial for building stronger, more resilient rural communities.”
Currently, the Subhalaxmi Cooperative supports over 5,000 women through 440 Self Help Groups and has disbursed more than Rs 2.55 crore in microfinance, aiding over 1,500 women entrepreneurs. It continues to generate new livelihood opportunities through projects like honey production, terracotta crafts, and other community enterprises.
Through initiatives like the Mahila Kalyan Panthi Fund, Subhalaxmi Cooperative has become a successful model for women-led community welfare, promoting education, financial stability, and collective well-being. With the backing of Vedanta Aluminium, the cooperative remains committed to empowering communities and fostering inclusive rural development through sustainable, member-driven solutions.
