Latest news with #Majra
The Hindu
7 days ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
State Information Commissioner picks of Haryana govt. opposed by INLD
Controversy has erupted over the appointments of State Information Commissioners by the Haryana government with the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) raising questions over their legality and seeking their immediate cancellation. A petition was also filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Monday by an advocate challenging the appointments. Chief Information Commissioner TVSN Prasad, a former Chief Secretary, and four State Information Commissioners – Amarjit Singh (a retired Haryana Civil Service officer), Karamveer Saini, Neeta Khera and Sanjay Madan – were administered the oath of office and allegiance by Governor Bandaru Dattatreya on Monday. Questioning the appointments, INLD State president Rampal Majra said the choice of Ms. Khera, a former Haryana Public Service Commission member from 2016-22, was in violation of Article 319 (D) of the Constitution, which prohibits appointment of the State Public Service Commission members to statutory posts. Earlier, Kulbir Chhikara, who was a member of HPSC from 2015-2021, was also made State Information Commissioner in 2023 in violation of this provision, said Mr. Majra. The INLD leader also opposed the appointment of Priyanka Dhupar, who faces charges in connection with the gang rape of a minor girl from Assam during her time as a member of the Child Welfare Committee, Bhiwani. 'The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and Haryana Child Protection Commission had recommended suspension of Ms. Dhupar and legal action against her. In a case of money fraud, the Bhiwani Bar Association had also debarred her,' said Mr. Majra in a press statement. Ms. Dhupar, though named one of the five State Information Commissioners, was not invited for the oath ceremony. Mr. Majra accused former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda of collusion with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party saying that he was part of the committee for selection as a representative of the Opposition, but did not raise any objections. Denying the charges, Mr. Hooda said it was for the scrutiny committee to decide on the eligibility of the candidates and if there is any violation of law, it must be examined. Meanwhile, Punjab and Haryana High Court advocate Jagmohan Singh Bhatti has sent a legal notice to Haryana Chief Secretary, among others, against the appointment of the five State Information Commissioners saying that it was violation of Section 15 (3) of the Right to Information Act, 2005 since the committee must comprise the Leader of the Opposition, but the post was lying vacant since September 12, 2024. Praveen Attrey, media secretary of the Haryana CM, told The Hindu that the appointments were made as per legal provisions and the government had taken legal opinion from the Advocate General in this connection. 'We had written to the State Congress unit seeking the name of their leader for the purpose of representation in the committee, and the party had forwarded Mr. Hooda's name,' said Mr. Attrey.
Mid East Info
23-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Majra–National CSR Fund hosts new ‘Impact Lab' session, highlighting key climate action and sustainability advancements in UAE
MAJRA – National CSR Fund, in collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), hosted an interactive session as part of its ongoing 'Impact Lab' initiative to explore notable developments within the domains of climate action and sustainability in the UAE. The event reflects Majra's long-standing vision to instil the values of social responsibility as well as environmental and social governance within the nation's private sector. The session, titled 'Smart Environments and Thriving Communities: Best Practices in Climate Resilience and Sustainability', convened thought leaders, innovators, and representatives from leading government and private institutions across critical sectors like agriculture, food, water systems, environmental technology, and climate innovation, among others. It served as a dynamic platform to exchange key insights on best practices for addressing climate change, environmental protection, promoting biodiversity, and driving sustainable development. During the session, H.E. Eng Amal Abdulrahim, Assistant Undersecretary for the Support Services Sector and CEO of AI and Innovation at MOCCAE, underscored the critical role of private-public partnerships and impactful policymaking in nurturing a prosperous future for all Emiratis. Her Excellency further stated: 'This strategic collaboration with Majra symbolises a critical milestone in the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment's ongoing efforts to achieve sustainable food and environmental security. Bolstered by the event's success, we look forward to forging similar partnerships and contributing to more such initiatives, which aim to preserve ecosystems and achieve sustainable development.' Sarah Shaw, CEO of Majra – National CSR Fund, highlighted Majra's ongoing efforts to drive sustainable development and support the implementation of ESG principles in the private sector, aligning with the 'Green Agenda 2030' vision, which aims to advance sustainable development goals. She also remarked : 'At Majra, we remain steadfast in our efforts to address various climate change challenges by developing green solutions and strategies that promote sustainability across priority sectors, in cooperation with the private sector. In line with this, we strive to strengthen cross-sectors collaboration within the nation. We also aim to launch highly targeted national priority initiatives which can usher in a qualitative shift in the way companies operate, expediting progress in the field of environmental sustainability.' The event featured several specialised roundtable discussions on four critical themes, including 'Environmental Governance and Compliance,' 'Sustainable Agriculture and Food Innovation,' 'Nature, Biodiversity, and Data,' and 'Community-Based Ecotourism'. Participants examined both the progress and challenges in these areas, showcased successful strategies, and identified key enablers and partnerships that have supported impactful outcomes. The goal was to foster a shared understanding of scalable initiatives that can strengthen climate resilience across communities in the UAE. Notable companies, such as Silal – UAE's leading Agri-Tech Food company, 4 Earth Intelligence (4EI), Khalifa University, Alpha Dhabi Holding, UAE Food and Beverage Manufacturers Group, Dnata, Camelicious – Emirates Camel Milk Factory, Sxill, Agthia Group, Novel Foods, DP World, Soma Mater, and the National Central Cooling Company PJSC – Tabreed, participated in these discussions. The 'Impact Lab' served as a dynamic platform for sharing expertise and aligning public and private sector efforts in climate action and sustainable development, further strengthening the UAE's leadership in environmental governance. It concluded with the development of a series of strategies, promoting effective communication between relevant stakeholders, achieving the shared vision for a safe community based on sustainability, diversity, and innovation.
Web Release
23-05-2025
- Business
- Web Release
Majra–National CSR Fund hosts new ‘Impact Lab' session, highlighting key climate action and sustainability advancements in UAE
MAJRA – National CSR Fund, in collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), hosted an interactive session as part of its ongoing 'Impact Lab' initiative to explore notable developments within the domains of climate action and sustainability in the UAE. The event reflects Majra's long-standing vision to instil the values ??of social responsibility as well as environmental and social governance within the nation's private sector. The session, titled 'Smart Environments and Thriving Communities: Best Practices in Climate Resilience and Sustainability', convened thought leaders, innovators, and representatives from leading government and private institutions across critical sectors like agriculture, food, water systems, environmental technology, and climate innovation, among others. It served as a dynamic platform to exchange key insights on best practices for addressing climate change, environmental protection, promoting biodiversity, and driving sustainable development. During the session, H.E. Eng Amal Abdulrahim, Assistant Undersecretary for the Support Services Sector and CEO of AI and Innovation at MOCCAE, underscored the critical role of private-public partnerships and impactful policymaking in nurturing a prosperous future for all Emiratis. Her Excellency further stated: 'This strategic collaboration with Majra symbolises a critical milestone in the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment's ongoing efforts to achieve sustainable food and environmental security. Bolstered by the event's success, we look forward to forging similar partnerships and contributing to more such initiatives, which aim to preserve ecosystems and achieve sustainable development.' Sarah Shaw, CEO of Majra – National CSR Fund, highlighted Majra's ongoing efforts to drive sustainable development and support the implementation of ESG principles in the private sector, aligning with the 'Green Agenda 2030' vision, which aims to advance sustainable development goals. She also remarked: 'At Majra, we remain steadfast in our efforts to address various climate change challenges by developing green solutions and strategies that promote sustainability across priority sectors, in cooperation with the private sector. In line with this, we strive to strengthen cross-sectors collaboration within the nation. We also aim to launch highly targeted national priority initiatives which can usher in a qualitative shift in the way companies operate, expediting progress in the field of environmental sustainability.' The event featured several specialised roundtable discussions on four critical themes, including 'Environmental Governance and Compliance,' 'Sustainable Agriculture and Food Innovation,' 'Nature, Biodiversity, and Data,' and 'Community-Based Ecotourism'. Participants examined both the progress and challenges in these areas, showcased successful strategies, and identified key enablers and partnerships that have supported impactful outcomes. The goal was to foster a shared understanding of scalable initiatives that can strengthen climate resilience across communities in the UAE. Notable companies, such as Silal – UAE's leading Agri-Tech Food company, 4 Earth Intelligence (4EI), Khalifa University, Alpha Dhabi Holding, UAE Food and Beverage Manufacturers Group, Dnata, Camelicious – Emirates Camel Milk Factory, Sxill, Agthia Group, Novel Foods, DP World, Soma Mater, and the National Central Cooling Company PJSC – Tabreed, participated in these discussions. The 'Impact Lab' served as a dynamic platform for sharing expertise and aligning public and private sector efforts in climate action and sustainable development, further strengthening the UAE's leadership in environmental governance. It concluded with the development of a series of strategies, promoting effective communication between relevant stakeholders, achieving the shared vision for a safe community based on sustainability, diversity, and innovation.
Mid East Info
21-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
MAJRA – National CSR Fund reviews most prominent achievements and results in Q1 of 2025
These discussions took place during the second Board of Trustees meeting in 2025 chaired by H.E. Abdulla bin Touq >> H.E. Bin Touq: 'The UAE has adopted national visions and initiatives to promote social responsibility and embed its principles. We are committed to continuing advancing our efforts to achieve sustainable impact in the country.' The Fund's achievements included launching the 'Sustainable Impact Challenge' and the 'Community Impact Medal' and establishing six national priority projects in collaboration with relevant ministries. UAE, May, 2025: The Board of Trustees of MAJRA – The National CSR Fund conducted its second meeting of 2025, chaired by His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Board of Trustees. The meeting reviewed recent progress across the Fund's projects and initiatives, assessed key performance indicators, and discussed future strategies aimed at strengthening corporate social responsibility within the private sector to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The meeting also reviewed the Fund's key achievements and outcomes during the first quarter of 2025. This includes the launch of the Sustainable Impact Challenge (SIC), and the 'Community Impact Medal' for SMEs, and initiation of six national priority projects in collaboration with relevant ministries. MAJRA also organised a Vision and Mission workshop with over 50 participants from public and private sectors and confirmed eight 'Year of Community' initiatives, including SIC and Ramadan Souq in UAQ. Several transformational projects were also rolled out across emirates, notably the expansion of the Dubai Can Initiative in Dubai, the launch of a Youth Entrepreneurship Funding Program in collaboration with the Saud bin Saqr Foundation in RAK, and the implementation of the Green Residential Parks Initiative in UAQ. His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri said, 'Under the guidance of our wise leadership, the UAE has launched national strategies and initiatives to strengthen social responsibility and support private sector engagement in projects that embed its core principles. At Majra, we are committed to continuing our national efforts to instil these values and promote sustainable impact in the UAE. Our goal is to support the UAE's ambition of becoming one of the world's most prosperous societies within the next decade, in alignment with the pillars of the 'We the UAE 2031' vision.' H.E. added, 'This meeting represents a significant milestone in reviewing the progress and achievements of the Fund during the previous phase and strengthening national collaboration to launch more initiatives and projects that will contribute to advancing the UAE's economic and social development.' H.E. reaffirmed Majra's commitment to supporting and empowering national professionals and directing social investments towards projects that achieve tangible and sustainable developmental impact. The meeting highlighted all initiatives and decisions associated with Majra's key projects, including the Sustainable Impact Challenge, efforts aligned with the 'Year of Community', and the Impact Index. During the meeting, participants reviewed recommendations, highlighted achievements and explored mechanisms to further stimulate social responsibility practices and improve societal impact among UAE-based companies, relying on a unified benchmark for evaluating quality and progress. Furthermore, they explored Fund projects linked to the fields of arts, culture, heritage, education, environment, health, and technology and their progress, with a key focus on the MAJRA Project Accelerator for Impact Economy, which will improve the capacity and financial support to launch such innovative programmes. MAJRA Project Accelerator for Impact Economy prioritises private sector engagement, encouraging collaboration with third sector institutions to develop and implement sustainable solutions in priority areas identified by federal agencies, such as education, health, environment, technology, art, culture, and heritage. This aligns with MAJRA's efforts to contribute to the development of a sustainable impact economic system by unifying the efforts of all parties concerned with aspects of social responsibility and sustainability in the country. Attendees further discussed mechanisms for establishing partnerships with relevant entities and fostering collaboration between sustainability leaders from various sectors to facilitate the exchange of ideas and expertise and drive the impact economy. Furthermore, the meeting explored strategies implemented and proposed to reinforce the role of MAJRA as a federal platform for boosting and directing private sector contributions in the field of social responsibility. This can be attained through initiatives for enhancing sustainable impact, nurturing a generation equipped with future skills and encouraging community engagement among youth and all segments of society. During the meeting, participants also evaluated the developments in the Impact Index, its key objectives and scope of work and the outcomes of the Impact Lab and strategic performance indicators for the first quarter of 2025. They further explored ways to develop and promote the Social Impact Seal among targeted companies and SMEs. Sarah Shaw, CEO of MAJRA, said: 'This meeting marks a vital opportunity for us to review the achievements and progress made by the Fund since the beginning of 2025 and take necessary measures to improve performance and ensure that these initiatives align with the country's directions. At MAJRA, we are dedicated to developing integrated societal and national priority programs that represent the country's vision to create a sustainable economy, and a society based on cooperation, innovation and technology. This commitment comes in line with the framework of our tireless efforts to improve private sector participation and offer a stimulating environment for socially impactful projects. We look forward to continuing our support for the Board of Trustees and strengthening the private sector's role as a strategic partner in attaining the vision and goals of MAJRA.' During the meeting's conclusion, the Board of Trustees reaffirmed their commitment to MAJRA's vision, mission and strategic objectives. They further highlighted the significance of boosting the private sector's societal role and guiding its contributions toward projects that align with the aspirations of the wise leadership and contribute to supporting the nation's comprehensive development process. The meeting was attended by members of the Board of Trustees of Majra – The National CSR Fund, including H.E. Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority H.E. Abdulla Al Saleh, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Economy and Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees; H.E. Aisha Ahmed Yousuf, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Community Development; H.E. Hanan Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre; H.E. Abdulaziz Khalid Al Jaziri, Deputy CEO of Dubai Future Foundation; Maryam Al Qassab, Manager of the Chairman Office at Sharjah Book Authority; Ms. Bedour Al Raqbani, Board Member of the American University of Sharjah; Dr. Mariam Al Suwaidi; and Sarah Shaw, CEO of the National CSR Fund 'Majra'.
Mid East Info
07-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Majra – National CSR Fund hosts innovative workshop to advance UAE's sustainability vision for private sector
MAJRA – National CSR Fund hosted recently the 'National Sustainability Strategy Workshop', convening professionals from federal and local governments, private sector corporates and non-profit. to collaboratively shape a comprehensive sustainability strategy for the private sector. This marks a significant milestone in the UAE's commitment in including all stakeholders to ensure the private sector's the national sustainability strategy is consistent with the aspirations of the wise leadership. H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Majra, stated: 'Sustainability is no longer a distant goal, rather, a strategic imperative driving the growth of diverse sectors. In such a scenario, the 'National Sustainability Strategy Workshop' for private sector plays an important role in uniting stakeholders to drive transformative change and establish a new 'impact economy' that integrates economic vision with elements of corporate citizenship, community responsibility, and transparency. Robust collaboration is integral to the success of such workshops as the final strategy is co-designed with the participants' collective expertise.' Sarah Shaw, CEO of Majra, said: 'The workshop helped convene leading thought leaders and change makers across various industries with an aim to develop a visionary strategy that is both inclusive and avant-garde. It primarily focused on fostering meaningful dialogues to create a practical methodology that integrates economic, environmental, social and governance priorities under a unified national vision For sustainability and community responsibility in the private sector.. Furthermore, strategic objectives and KPIs introduced as a part of the workshop will help track progress and ensure maximum impact, aligning with the objectives of federal and local entities.' The high-level, interactive workshop followed a structured agenda included, principles, vision formulation, strategic framework development, strategic initiatives and objectives, current state assessment, as well as a conclusion session focused on summarising key outcomes and outlining agreements for future actions. Moreover, participants were segregated into working groups representing diverse sectors, to facilitate robust collaboration and insight sharing. Participants were also encouraged to engage openly and contribute towards fostering a highly resilient, inclusive, transparent, as well as impactful nation.
