In the realm of financial services, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is often an afterthought, but mPokket is rewriting the script. Over the past seven years, the company has transformed its CSR vision into a force for meaningful change, impacting lives across education, health, and women’s empowerment.
In this exclusive conversation with TheCSRUniverse, Ms. Rajani Jalan, Director of CSR at mPokket, takes us through the company’s flagship initiatives—Roti on Wheels, Adhigam Bhoomi, and partnerships with organizations like Mahavir Seva Sadan and Vihaan. From providing warm meals to families in medical distress to empowering young girls through holistic education, mPokket’s CSR journey is built on the belief that social impact is not just about writing cheques—it’s about driving sustainable change.
Jalan also sheds light on how mPokket is challenging traditional notions of CSR in the financial sector, proving that companies can be both profit-driven and purpose-driven. As a textile designer-turned-CSR leader, her journey brings a unique perspective to social impact, blending creativity with pragmatic strategy to create initiatives that don’t just touch lives but transform them.
Read on to explore how mPokket is setting a new benchmark for corporate social responsibility—one empowered individual at a time.
Q. Over the nine years of mPokket’s CSR journey, what key milestones stand out to you? How have these shaped the company’s approach to social responsibility? Could you share the core vision behind mPokket’s CSR initiatives?
A. Looking back at the past 7 years of our CSR journey fills me with immense pride. It's been an incredible privilege to witness the tangible impact we have made on the lives of so many. While every initiative holds a special place in my heart, two truly stand out.
First, our work with Roti on Wheels. Providing warm meals to families facing the immense stress of a medical crisis is about so much more than nourishment. It's about offering comfort, dignity, and a sense of community when they need it most. I have seen firsthand how a simple act of kindness can alleviate suffering and foster hope.
Second, Adhigam Bhoomi. Watching young girls blossom confidently and dare to dream big is extraordinary. This program embodies our belief in the transformative power of holistic education. By empowering these girls, we're not just shaping their futures, we're investing in a stronger, more inclusive India.
These initiatives have taught us a profound lesson: true social responsibility isn't just about writing a cheque. It's about creating sustainable programs that ignite real change. It's about empowering individuals to break down barriers and build a better future for themselves and their communities. Health, women empowerment, and child education are not just buzzwords for us – they are the pillars of our vision. We have a responsibility to be catalysts for positive social change, driven by empathy and commitment to making a difference. And together, we will continue to do just that.
Q. mPokket has made significant strides in empowering education, particularly through initiatives like Adhigam Bhoomi. Could you elaborate on the long-term impact this has had on the beneficiaries?
A. Imagine a young girl in a rural village, full of potential but limited by circumstances. At Adhigam Bhoomi, we're saying 'no more.' We're bringing quality education and essential life skills directly to these children within the vicinity of their communities. This means they can stay connected to their families and roots while gaining the tools to thrive. It means breaking down barriers and empowering them to become agents of change in their villages. I feel proud to share that 1,000 young girls have already embarked on this journey of empowerment. And this year, we're reaching even further, partnering with over 100 rural schools to share this transformative approach to education.
But Adhigam Bhoomi is about so much more than textbooks and exams. We're nurturing a love of learning, building crucial life skills, and inspiring a generation of young leaders committed to sustainable living. This is how we create real, lasting change. This is how we invest in the future of rural India, one empowered child at a time.
Q. In your view, how important is it for corporate entities to focus on educational and inclusive initiatives? What role does mPokket play in setting an example for others in the financial sector?
A. I've always believed that education is the key that unlocks human potential. It's the foundation for a truly equitable society where everyone, regardless of their background, has the chance to thrive. When we invest in education, especially for those who need it most – like underprivileged children and young women – we're not just empowering individuals, we're strengthening entire communities and building a brighter future for our nation. This belief is at the very heart of mPokket. We're not just about financial freedom; we're about creating opportunities and fostering inclusivity. We've seen firsthand how access to financial resources can be a game-changer, allowing individuals to pursue their dreams and build a better life for themselves and their families.
But we're not stopping there. We want to inspire a movement. We want to show the world that financial institutions can be powerful forces for social change. Imagine a future where every company in the financial sector prioritizes social impact, where everyone has the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. That's the future we're working towards, and we believe it's a future worth fighting for.
Q. “Feeding Hope” through Roti on Wheels has served over 50,000 meals. How has this initiative evolved over time, and what feedback have you received from the community?
A. The Roti on Wheels program has been a truly humbling journey. We started by serving warm meals twice a week outside the Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute. It was a simple act, but it opened our eyes to the immense challenges these families face. The constant worry, the financial strain, the emotional rollercoaster of caring for a loved one battling cancer – it all takes an incredible toll. Seeing their faces light up with each meal, and hearing their heartfelt expressions of gratitude - touched us deeply and inspired us to do more.
Today, we are fortunate to serve families and patients five days a week on their loving request. Every afternoon the patients and their relatives look forward to the meals that are cooked on the site.
Our employees have embraced this initiative wholeheartedly, volunteering their time and energy to make a difference. It's been an incredible privilege to witness their compassion and dedication firsthand. We know that a warm meal can't erase the pain and challenges these families face. But it can offer a moment of comfort, a sense of normalcy, and a reminder that they're not alone. And for that, we are truly grateful.
Q. Your partnership with Mahavir Seva Sadan and the Institute of Neuroscience in Kolkata underscores a strong commitment to health and community care. How do these collaborations enhance the quality of life for the recipients?
A. At mPokket, we believe that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare. It's a fundamental right, not a privilege. That's why health is one of our core pillars, and it drives our partnerships with incredible organizations like Mahavir Seva Sadan and the Institute of Neuroscience in Kolkata. With Mahavir Seva Sadan, we've had the humbling opportunity to help provide artificial limbs to those who need them. To witness the renewed sense of freedom and independence in their eyes - it's a feeling that's hard to put into words. It reminds us that even seemingly small actions can have a profound impact. Our support for the Institute of Neuroscience is another source of pride.
From helping create a new OPD to donating an ultrasound machine, we're working to enhance access to critical healthcare services. We know navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming, and we're committed to doing our part to ease that burden for patients and their families. These initiatives are a testament to our belief that every contribution, no matter how small, can make a real difference in people's lives. We're not just a financial company, but a company that cares. And we'll continue to use our platform to champion health and well-being for all.
Q. Vocational training and financial literacy for women with Dakshini Prayash and support for trafficked women through Vihaan are critical programs. What changes have you witnessed in the lives of these women post-training?
A. It's incredible to witness the transformation that happens when women are empowered to take control of their lives. At Dakshini Prayash, we're seeing women gain confidence, build vital skills, and embrace financial independence. Through vocational training, skill development, and microfinance education, they're not just increasing their earning potential, they're building a brighter future for themselves and their families. And with Vihaan, we're extending a hand to survivors of human trafficking, helping them heal and rebuild their lives. It's an incredibly impactful cause, and seeing these women reintegrate into society, secure employment, and rediscover their strength is truly inspiring.
As a matter of fact, we have a remarkable woman working with us who is a survivor herself. Over the past year, she has not only re-established herself professionally but has become a beacon of resilience and hope for others. These experiences reaffirm our belief in the power of opportunity. When we provide the right support and create a space for individuals to thrive, they can overcome incredible adversity and achieve extraordinary things. It's a privilege to be a part of their journey.
Q. mPokket operates in the financial sector, which traditionally might not be associated with extensive social impact. How do you think mPokket is reshaping perceptions about the role of financial institutions in CSR?
A. We believe that success should be measured not just by profits, but by the positive impact we can have on society. Our philosophy is simple: as we grow, we have a responsibility to lift those around us. Financial success and social impact can, and should, go hand in hand. That's why initiatives like Adhigam Bhoomi, where we're empowering young girls through education, are so close to our hearts. It's why we support organizations like Vihaan, helping survivors of human trafficking rebuild their lives. And it's why we actively encourage our employees to volunteer their time and talent to causes they believe in. We're challenging the traditional notion that the financial sector should solely focus on the bottom line. We're proving that businesses can be a powerful force for good, driving positive change and creating a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.
By weaving social impact into the very fabric of our business strategy, we're not just making a difference in individual lives, we're building a more equitable and compassionate financial ecosystem. We hope to inspire others to join us on this journey.
Q. As a Textile Designer turned CSR leader, how has your diverse background influenced your approach to CSR at mPokket? What personal motivations drive your passion for social impact, and how do you balance creativity with the pragmatic aspects of managing CSR initiatives?
A. My journey into the world of social impact began long before mPokket. Back in my days in the textile industry, I had the privilege of working alongside incredibly talented rural weavers. Witnessing their daily struggles to even put food on the table left an indelible mark on me. It ignited a fire in me to make a difference, to empower those whose voices often go unheard. That experience has profoundly shaped my approach to CSR at mPokket. It's not just about ticking boxes or fulfilling obligations; it's about creating real, lasting change in the lives of those who need it most. Whether it's helping a single individual or an entire community, every positive impact fuels my passion.
I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling life, and that belief drives everything we do. However, balancing creativity with the practical realities of managing CSR initiatives requires a strategic mindset. I strive to think outside the box and to identify those often overlooked causes that truly need our support. We focus on building impactful, sustainable, and scalable projects. This involves meticulous planning, strong collaboration with our partners, and constant evaluation to ensure we're achieving our goals and making a tangible difference.
Q. How does mPokket ensure the sustainability of such programs, ensuring that the women continue to benefit long after the initial training or support, and what plans do you have to further sustainability?
A. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at mPokket. We're not interested in quick fixes or short-term gains. We're committed to building long-term support systems for underserved communities, whether it's in healthcare, women's empowerment, or child education. Every project we undertake is more than just a financial investment; it's an investment of our time, energy, and passion. We don't just fund programs; we become active partners, working alongside our collaborators to ensure their success from the ground up.
We're there every step of the way, witnessing their growth, celebrating their achievements, and adapting our support as needed. Because true sustainability isn't just about creating impact; it's about nurturing that impact and ensuring it thrives for generations to come.
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