By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, 30 Jan: At the request of District Magistrate Savin Basnal, ONGC has approved an amount of Rs 1.5 crores under its CSR for Project Utkarsh of the state government aiming at modernisation of government schools in Dehradun. The initiative aims to equip schools, even in remote areas, with modern furniture, digital screens, whiteboards, outdoor sports facilities, and other essential infrastructure.
It has been stated by the district administration officials that ONGC has approved Rs 1.5 crores under its CSR fund for the financial year 2024-25 and has also sanctioned funds for 2025-26. Meanwhile, a Rs 3 crores proposal, submitted to HUDCO is in its final stages, with plans to install smart LED screens in schools.
Under the direction of the District Magistrate, Chief Development Officer Abhinav Shah is actively coordinating with HUDCO and ONGC officials in this regard. Their continuous efforts have garnered increasing interest from these institutions, accelerating the modernisation drive.
It may be recalled that Savin Bansal had successfully implemented Project Utkarsh in Nainital while he was posted as the district magistrate there, earning statewide recognition. Now, the initiative is gaining momentum in Dehradun, with noticeable improvements expected in government schools soon.
The DM has allocated Rs 1 crore to the Chief Education Officer for enhancing school infrastructure, including whiteboards, LED lights, furniture, and outdoor sports facilities in various government schools in the state. He has also urged social organisations and major establishments to support the initiative. Additionally, the administration has made purchase of or subscription to newspapers, magazines, dictionaries, and biographies of great leaders compulsory in schools to promote vocational education and inspire students.
