CSR MEETING-Jadavpur University
What is “CSR meeting” in this context
“CSR” stands for Corporate Social Responsibility — the idea that companies commit part of profits/resources toward social, environmental, and community development rather than pure business. Under Indian law (Companies Act, 2013), certain companies must spend at least 2 % of their average net profit (over last three years) on CSR activities each financial year. Universities and educational institutions often partner with companies to make use of CSR funds — for infrastructure, labs, research centres, student welfare, community outreach etc.
CSR collaboration at Jadavpur University
There was a “CSR Meet 2025” held at Jadavpur University, organized by All India NGO Welfare Association — people from companies/NGOs likely gathered to discuss CSR-projects, collaboration, funding etc.
As a result of CSR funding from a multinational pharmaceutical company (via an alumnus), a 3,000 sq. ft “unit-operation laboratory” of the Chemical Engineering department was renovated. This upgrade supports teaching and research.
Jadavpur University is also reportedly setting up a multidisciplinary research centre for “sustainable development” using part of the CSR grant — showing how CSR funds can be directed toward long-term institutional growth, not just one-off donations.
During such CSR-oriented meetings, the objectives often include:
Bringing together corporate entities, NGOs, university administration, and sometimes alumni/benefactors to explore potential CSR collaborations.
Discussing needs of the university: e.g. infrastructure (labs, renovation), academic/research projects, student welfare, outreach, sustainable development projects, new centers, community engagement.
Planning how CSR funds would be allocated — deciding priorities: whether to build labs, fund research, support students, community welfare, sustainability projects etc.
Formalising agreements/MOUs between companies/NGOs and the university specifying scope, budget, oversight, timelines, reporting, compliance with law (e.g. as per Schedule VII of the Act)
Monitoring and evaluating impact: ensuring CSR funds are used properly and deliver intended benefits. This may include periodic reviews, transparency and reporting.
Results
Why such meetings matter
Many universities in India (including Jadavpur) face funding constraints — CSR collaborations help fill the gap, enabling improvement of infrastructure, labs, research facilities, student support.
CSR grants bring in external resources (funding, technology, expertise) that help upgrade facilities and academic capabilities — beneficial for students, faculty, and research output.
They foster partnerships between academia and industry/NGOs — which can lead to real-world impact, social contributions, and more holistic education and development.