Kolkata, 25 July (H.S.) -In a significant step towards the welfare of children, the West Bengal government, UNICEF, and several corporate bodies have announced a collaborative partnership aimed at advancing holistic child development across the state.
A senior official from the state secretariat confirmed the development on Friday morning, noting that the decision follows a series of meetings involving the state government, UNICEF, and representatives from leading industry associations such as ASSOCHAM, BCCI, Bharat Chambers, FICCI, MCCI, and CII (Eastern Region). Earlier this week, UNICEF representatives also met with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to discuss the initiative.
As part of this collaboration, the state government has launched a dedicated CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) portal to encourage corporate houses to channel their CSR funds into developmental projects identified by the government.
Shashi Panja, the state Minister for Women and Child Development, Social Welfare, Industry, Commerce, and Enterprises, said, “The portal features a portfolio of child-centric projects based on their specific needs. Corporates can browse and choose projects according to their area of interest.”
Highlighting the strategic value of this partnership, Panja added, “The corporate sector constantly seeks innovative solutions, and UNICEF has deep expertise in global child welfare. Together, this tripartite collaboration can deliver tangible results for children.”
UNICEF India Representative Cynthia McCaffrey underscored the organization’s long-standing association with India, stating, “UNICEF has been working with the Government of India for the past 75 years. We believe this dialogue will open up new opportunities and foster hope for children and families.” She also presented an overview of UNICEF’s activities to corporate stakeholders and shared insights from her recent field visits in the state, including Anganwadi centres, health and wellness centres, government hospitals, Kanyashree Clubs, and centres for children with disabilities.
The initiative seeks to explore CSR investments in critical areas such as child health, nutrition, adolescent and youth development, climate-resilient systems, education, skill development, and social protection for marginalized groups.
UNICEF’s Bengal Chief Manjur Hussain expressed optimism that this engagement would help align corporate strategies with UNICEF’s expertise to ensure effective investment in child development.
Sanghamitra Ghosh, Principal Secretary of the state’s Women and Child Development department, revealed that projects worth ₹450 crore have already been uploaded to the portal, and 37 industrial units have registered to participate.
Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh
