VM Connect is a platform to connect local NGO’s with corporate sponsors, funding agencies, and individual donors, was launched on 18th February 2020, with a symposium to provide a better understanding of CSR and also facilitate engagement between corporate organizations and NGOs associated with the Marathon. The symposium included address by Chief Guest Mr. Rajeev Chaba (MD, MG Motor India); and Key Note Address by PadmaShri Dr. M.H.Mehta (Chairman, Gujarat Life Sciences) on the theme “Water Conservation and Ecological Impact”.
Mr. Nishith Dand (Founder, Pagdand) gave a presentation on the VM- Pagdand collaboration - “Chalo Recharge Karein”- for recharging of ground water levels in Vadodara. This was followed by a Panel Discussion on Catalyzing Synergies”, which shed light on all aspects of CSR- compliance & regulatory issues related to CSR funding, sharing of industry & NGO experiences and expectations.
The panelists included representation from industry, NGO, as well as legal compliance of CSR, with PadmaShri Dr. Subroto Das (Managing Trustee, Lifeline Foundation), Mr. Deepak Asher (Director & Group Head, INOX Group of Companies), Mr. Samir Parikh (C.A., Amin Parikh & Co), Mr. Rikesh Desai (Managing Trustee, Mook Dhwani Trust), Mrs. Tejal Amin (Chairperson, Vadodara Marathon & Navrachana Education Society); and moderated by Mr. Harsh Purohit (Founder Director, Cognito). The symposium ended with 15 NGO’s projects for CSR being presented, with these NGO’s connecting with corporate CSR Heads and funding agencies.
Dedication of 4 High Volume Rainwater Recharge Systems was held by Vadodara Marathon via a virtual event on 29th July 2020, in the virtual presence of PadmaShri Dr. M.H.Mehta (Chairman, Gujarat Life Sciences). Vadodara Marathon has created 4 high volume rainwater recharge systems, in collaboration with Pagdand, a local NGO that is specialized in biodiversity and conservation. These 4 rainwater recharge systems are located at Sama Sports Complex, Manjalpur Sports Complex, and Atithigruh and Sambhavnath Marg in Diwalipura.
Details of the project include:
