Government, Corporates and NGOs unite at the 2nd NE CSR Connect 2025 to drive impactful CSR programmes
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) hosted the 2nd edition of the North East CSR Connect 2025 in New Delhi today, bringing together senior government representatives, corporate leaders, NGOs, and development agencies to strengthen CSR engagement in the Northeast. Speaking at the Inaugural session through a virtual message, Shri Jyotiraditya M Scindia, Hon’ble Minister for Communication and Development of North Eastern Region, underlined CSR’s role as a catalyst for bridging gaps and building strengths, identifying three priority areas—infrastructure and basic services, livelihoods and skills, and environment and sustainability—to position the region as a model of inclusive and sustainable growth.
Shri Lalnghinglova Hmar, Hon’ble Minister of State for Labour, Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship; Sports and Youth Services, Tourism, Excise & Narcotics, Government of Mizoram, emphasized that CSR investments in Mizoram can transform entire communities, create visible and measurable stories of change, and leave a lasting legacy. He further noted that sports development represents a key CSR opportunity, capable of nurturing youth talent, building confidence, and opening pathways to livelihoods and recognition. He also highlighted that Government of Mizoram is in the final stages of launching a CSR matchmaking platform called Mizoram CSR Connect, an AI based interactive digital tool that will connect companies with investable projects, verify legal partners, and real time progress dashboards. This platform is designed to make CSR in Mizoram not just easier, but smarter, more transparent and impactful.
Smt Hekani Jakhalu, Hon’ble Advisor, Industry & Commerce, Government of Nagaland, while mentioning about the CSR activities in the state, thanked CII in connecting for their efforts in providing skill training programmes for the youths in the state. She further remarked that the Northeast has huge potential and that can be leveraged through investments in skill development, entrepreneurship, livelihood creation through CSR funding. She stressed that the Government is not only focusing on the Northeast but also ensuring that it is not left behind as India advances towards Viksit Bharat 2047.
Shri Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh, Director General and Chief Executive Officer, Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs, called for greater CSR spending in the Northeast to match the region’s development needs. He proposed the establishment of a dedicated CSR Authority in each state to ensure better coordination, transparency, and alignment of CSR projects with local priorities.
While setting the context for the North East CSR Connect 2025, Mr R Mukundan, President Designate, welcomed all the dignitaries and mentioned that through this CSR Connect has been positioned as a 4–6 year transformative platform to direct CSR funding towards healthcare, education, infrastructure, and livelihoods in the Northeast, showcasing impactful projects and fostering long-term partnerships. He further added that the programme, once stabilizes will bring a connection for each state where all theeight states will have specific programmes. CII is creating an impactful CSR vision for the northeast before pushing it forward to the state specific level.
Shri Pradeep Bagla, Chairman, CII North East Council reaffirmed CII’s commitment to positioning the North East as a priority region for CSR and sustainable development. He stressed that CSR is not merely an obligation but a strategic opportunity for corporates to partner with governments and communities in building inclusive growth models. He underlined that through the Connect platform, CII will continue to facilitate dialogue, share best practices, and create a collaborative ecosystem that maximizes CSR’s role in the transformation of the North East.
The inaugural session also witnessed the release of the report “CII CSR Investment in Northeast India: Understanding Barriers and Way Forward”, setting the tone for meaningful deliberations and partnerships.
An exhibition was also organized by the NGOs and Corporate foundations at the venue to showcase impactful CSR projects in the Northeast.