Axis Bank Foundation

Watershed management and agricultural productivity form the core of ABF's rural livelihood strategy, focusing on rain-fed regions in the country. This approach recognizes the significance of watersheds in ensuring economic, social, and ecological security for rural communities. ABF works to enhance agriculture productivity, manage watersheds effectively, aggregate inputs and produce for better market outcomes, and promote community-led governance for equitable access to natural resources. The foundation places particular importance on empowering women in rural economies by fostering collectivization through Self Help Groups and Federations, enabling them to actively participate in decision-making processes and contribute their local knowledge alongside technical expertise to drive economic decisions at various levels.

Livestock enhancement is a vital component of ABF's rural initiatives, offering rural households an additional income source alongside agriculture. These activities encompass poultry and duck farming, as well as the rearing of goats, pigs, and cattle. The programme focuses on various interventions, including animal health care, feed and fodder management, selective breeding, newborn care, milking techniques, and vaccinations. ABF also promotes dairy development by establishing value chains and connecting producers with markets. To support livestock health, para-vets (pashu sakhis) are trained to provide essential veterinary care. Ownership of livestock among marginalized farmers contributes to economic stability and enhances the sustainability of farming. ABF facilitates this by offering revolving funds for livestock purchases and educating farmers about available government schemes to help them access benefits.

In response to India's challenge of a substantial portion of its workforce lacking employable skills, ABF initiates Vocational Training Projects. These projects address the critical issue of limited skills among the youth population, with only 2% of the Indian workforce considered skilled, compared to other nations like China, Japan, and South Korea. With a vast youth population entering the workforce annually, the existing training capacity falls far short. ABF recognizes the importance of skill development in driving economic growth and social progress and aims to empower school dropouts, unemployed rural youth, tribal communities, and women by offering vocational skills training. The objective is to create employment opportunities, enabling individuals to lead self-sustained and economically independent lives, thus bridging the significant skill gap in the country.

In India, the disabled population often faces a lack of access to specialized skill training and employment opportunities, making it challenging for them to become self-reliant and productive individuals. While there has been some progress in raising awareness about the needs of this marginalized community, much remains to be accomplished. Currently, only 2% of persons with disabilities (PwD) are educated, and merely 1% are employed. Limited awareness among parents about special schools that cater to PwDs hinders their skill development. Additionally, the stigma associated with educating a special child can hinder their growth. ABF addresses these challenges by providing market-linked training and employability support to PwDs, empowering them to earn a livelihood and achieve financial independence.

Axis Bank Foundation believes in the transformative power of equitable and high-quality education as the foundation for a life of dignity and opportunities. Through partnerships with over 80 non-profit organisations across India, ABF has contributed to enhancing the learning experience, particularly in rural areas with prevalent child labour. The programme has focused on two vulnerable groups: economically disadvantaged girls facing gender bias and children of sex workers in urban areas. ABF has also supported remedial, differential, and special education for children with various disabilities, including intellectual disabilities. Furthermore, the Foundation has empowered its partners and fostered an ecosystem to scale up best practices from these interventions.