Bengaluru, February 8, 2024: United Way Bengaluru (UWBe) and Applied Materials India have launched an integrated rural development drive in Mulbagal taluk, Kolar district. The Rural Rising program aims to enhance the living standards of rural communities and improve available resources for sustainable, long-term impact. Attended by delegates from both organizations, the event featured cultural performances and science project presentations by local youth.
Applied Materials India has been supporting over 200 villages across Bangarpete, Kolar, and Srinivaspur blocks in the Kolar district, reaching over 1.5 lakh beneficiaries directly. This year, the focus has shifted to Mulbagal Taluk, marking the second consecutive year of involvement.
Rural Rising is United Way Bengaluru‘s flagship program, bringing together Gram Panchayats, local communities, volunteers, NGOs, and corporations towards shared objectives. The program addresses Mission Anthodya and Human Development Index (HDI) indicators, focusing on pillars of Education, Health, Livelihood, Women Empowerment, and Environment.
Sharing thoughts on the initiative, Rajesh Krishnan, CEO of United Way Bengaluru, said, “The Rural Rising program is a unique and one-of-its-kind initiative. The saturation approach, which focuses on Gram Panchayat to block and district-level development, makes it a very organized, sustained, and sustainable impact-driven process. I particularly thank our corporate partner, Applied Materials India, who had the vision to make a difference by investing in areas that needed help."
Speaking on the collaboration, Sarika Rath, Head of Communications & Public Affairs at Applied Materials India said, “We endeavor to create a positive and sustainable impact in India’s rural communities through our Rural Rising program. Convergence and collaboration are two key elements for achieving a positive impact and these programs help us to achieve the same. Our purpose drives everything we do and it is shaped by our values and reflected in our actions."
Applied Materials, Inc. specializes in materials engineering solutions for global chip and advanced display production, empowering customers to realize their potential and shape a brighter future.
UWBe, a part of United Way Worldwide, is an NGO dedicated to addressing urgent and enduring social issues. The chapter mobilizes collaborative action among corporations, civic entities, and citizen groups to drive tangible impact and positive transformation.
