Building Champions and Communities: Vedanta's Holistic Approach to Sports

How Vedanta's sports programs reflect its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.

RITU JHINGON

President, Anil Agarwal Foundation

At Anil Agarwal Foundation, how do you prioritize CSR initiatives, particularly those related to sports? What drives your strategy?

When it comes to prioritizing CSR initiatives at the Anil Agarwal Foundation, especially in sports, we focus on where we can truly make a difference and create a lasting impact. Sports has always been close to our hearts because we’ve seen firsthand how it can transform lives and communities with a special focus on areas where Vedanta operates. Our strategy is deeply rooted in the belief that sports can drive social change and bring people together. By building grassroots programs and nurturing young talent, we’re not just investing in future athletes—we’re investing in the future of our communities. It’s important to us that our efforts align with national goals, empowering the next generation to thrive.

Vedanta has a strong focus on social impact through its entity Anil Agarwal Foundation. Can you share how sports are integrated into your CSR programs and how they contribute to community development?

Sports is an integral part of our community development approach to empower youth, particularly from underserved communities. We’ve established residential academies in Rajasthan and Goa, and community playing centres across several states. These facilities not only provide access to quality training but also promotes fitness, good health, discipline, and teamwork. For instance, our archery academies in Jharkhand and Odisha are tapping into local talent and traditions. By integrating sports into our CSR programs and organizing sports events and tournaments, we’re creating pathways for youth development and community engagement.