March 08, 2026 : Reaffirming its commitment to women’s empowerment and inclusive community development, NTPC Lara organised a vibrant Mahila Utsav on the occasion of International Women’s Day as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The event brought together Self Help Group (SHG) women, NTPC employees and villagers from surrounding areas to celebrate talent, entrepreneurship and social progress.
The programme was attended by Shri Neeraj Jalota, Executive Director (Unified Shared Services Centre) and Regional Executive Director (Western Region–II), along with Shri Subhash Thakur, Head of Project, NTPC Lara. Other dignitaries present included Smt. Rekha Thakur, President of Prerita Mahila Samiti; Shri Keshab Chandra Singha Roy, General Manager (Operations and Maintenance); Shri Ashok Mishra, General Manager (Operations and Fuel Management); Shri Hemant Pawagi, General Manager (Projects); and Shri Jakir Khan, Assistant General Manager (Human Resources). Senior members of Prerita Mahila Samiti, women employees of NTPC Lara, Self Help Group members and villagers from nearby communities participated enthusiastically in the celebration.
Addressing the gathering, Neeraj Jalota highlighted the importance of collective participation in community development and encouraged continued involvement in initiatives that promote social upliftment. He noted that empowering women is central to national progress and stressed that supporting women-led entrepreneurship and self-reliance helps build stronger and more resilient communities.
The programme featured a series of cultural performances by Self Help Group women, who presented theme-based acts reflecting the resilience, aspirations and achievements of rural women. Adding energy and excitement to the celebrations, SHG members also participated in a ramp walk that symbolised confidence, empowerment and the growing self-belief among women in rural communities.
One of the most inspiring segments of the event was an experience-sharing session by Self Help Group women involved in mushroom cultivation under a CSR initiative supported by NTPC Lara. Participants spoke about how the initiative has increased their income, strengthened their entrepreneurial skills and provided greater financial independence for their families.
The venue also hosted exhibition stalls set up by Self Help Group members showcasing a variety of locally produced and handcrafted items. These included traditional Dokra art, eco-friendly fly ash products, homemade pickles and other edible products, along with fresh mushrooms. The stalls reflected the creativity and dedication of rural women while highlighting sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The Mahila Utsav served as a meaningful platform to celebrate women’s empowerment, rural entrepreneurship and community participation. The event also strengthened NTPC Lara’s engagement with nearby villages. Through such initiatives, the organisation continues to go beyond power generation by supporting livelihoods, empowering women and promoting sustainable community development.
