Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
Punjab State Human Rights Commission has recommended that the state government constitute a dedicated State CSR Authority to ensure that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds are used in a more systematic and effective manner for local development needs and natural disaster management.
The commission said the proposed authority would help improve coordination between the government and the corporate sector, enabling faster deployment of CSR funds for relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction work after floods, droughts, earthquakes and other natural calamities.
The recommendation has been prepared under the leadership of Justice Sant Parkash, Chairperson of the commission, and Justice Gurbir Singh, Member.
Key Recommendations
Create a dedicated State CSR Authority in Punjab on the lines of Gujarat and Assam to strengthen coordination between the government and corporate entities.
Launch awareness initiatives for companies operating in Punjab so that CSR funds are directed towards local needs and community welfare projects within the state.
Issue an advisory to registered companies urging them to reserve a portion of their CSR funds for disaster preparedness and emergency response, including floods and earthquakes.
Request the Central Government to contribute its share to such disaster-relief and reconstruction funding mechanisms to accelerate rehabilitation efforts.
Referring to the devastating floods that hit Punjab last year, the commission noted that the state suffered significant losses due to natural disasters. It emphasized that corporate participation during emergencies can substantially strengthen government relief and rehabilitation operations, ensuring that assistance reaches affected communities more efficiently and according to actual requirements.
