New Delhi, Dec 4, 2024: Neetu Rawat, a Class X student from Ajmer, was born with a hearing impairment. Coming from a family of six children and limited financial means, Neetu’s parents were disheartened when they realized her condition would make everyday interactions and learning difficult. Her life then began to change when Hindustan Zinc in collaboration with Noida Deaf Society (NDS), introduced her to Indian Sign Language (ISL), literacy on life skills, and new technologies. Neetu now confidently communicates with her classmates, participates actively in school, and even teaches ISL to her siblings to foster better understanding at home.
Launched in 2017, Hindustan Zinc’s Jeevan Tarang program is dedicated to addressing the educational needs of children with special abilities. Covering four schools across Ajmer, Bhilwara, and Udaipur, the initiative has reached over 900 children, transformed their learning experiences and promoted holistic development. Over 600 children have been trained in ISL, and more than 100 visually impaired children have gained technology skills using DAISY players, smartphones, and computers.
Like Neetu, Hindustan Zinc’s Jeevan Tarang program brought a remarkable change in Manish’s life as well. Manish Kumawat, a Class VII student from Bhilwara, also faced the challenge of being born with hearing impairment. As the only child in his family with this condition, he struggled to communicate his thoughts and understand those around him. With guidance from NDS trainers, he learned ISL and improved his foundational knowledge. Today, he dreams of a brighter future.
Further, the team of Jeevan Tarang conducts sessions on menstrual health, financial literacy, career counselling, and safety, alongside sports activities that foster teamwork and mental resilience. Students learn practical skills like art & craft, beautician training, and home science to encourage independence & entrepreneurial thinking. Additionally, Hindustan Zinc has extended its efforts by initiating ISL training to employees, business partners, and community members, fostering a society of inclusivity for people with special needs.
Through focused investments in education, sports, skill-building, rural infrastructure, and sustainable livelihoods, Hindustan Zinc has positively impacted over 20 lakh lives across 3,700 villages in Rajasthan and Uttarakhand. As one of India’s Top 10 CSR spenders, the company remains committed to creating self-sustaining ecosystems that uplift communities and drive holistic rural development.
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