New Delhi: In a continued effort to drive social transformation through sports, Indian Oil Chairman AS Sahney launched Phase X of ‘Parivartan - Prison to Pride’ and Phase VII of ‘Nayi Disha - Redefining the Future’ today across various locations in India. The event witnessed the presence of State Government officials and prison authorities, highlighting the collaborative efforts to rehabilitate incarcerated individuals and children in correctional homes.
Launched on August 15, 2021, and January 26, 2023, respectively, these initiatives underscore Indian Oil’s commitment to utilizing sports as a medium for positive change. The new phase aims to impact over 1,000 individuals across 22 prisons and five children’s correctional homes, offering them structured training in various sports.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Chairman AS Sahney emphasized the broader impact of the initiatives, stating, “Our biggest achievement of this programme is the belief that there is always a second chance. By exposure to coaching in various sports followed by their participation in national and international sports tournaments, the beneficiaries are also getting an opportunity to showcase their talent and channelize their energy positively. Through our small attempt, we hope to instill a sense of discipline, purpose, and hope in the inmates so that they are assimilated into society with dignity.”
The participating State Government officials and prison authorities expressed their gratitude to Indian Oil for pioneering such a unique intervention, which empowers inmates and children in correctional facilities, enabling them to reintegrate into society and contribute meaningfully.
Since their inception, these initiatives have extended support to over 200 prison locations, benefiting more than 10,000 individuals across 29 states and Union Territories. The success of these programs is reflected in the accolades won by participants, including gold and bronze medals at the World Chess Federation (FIDE) chess tournament last year. Indian Oil’s commitment to sports for social good has been recognized with prestigious honors, such as the Sportstar Aces Chairperson Award 2023 and the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards. Furthermore, the World Chess Federation acknowledged Indian Oil’s efforts at the Chess for Freedom Conference in Chicago in 2023.
Beyond sports training, Indian Oil is fostering social reintegration through its ‘Umeed – A Hope’ project, in collaboration with State Prison Departments. Under this initiative, 63 fuel stations are being operated by current and former inmates, instilling a sense of belonging and pride among them.
Through these initiatives, Indian Oil continues to reinforce its commitment to social responsibility, leveraging the power of sports and vocational opportunities to create a meaningful impact in the lives of inmates and correctional home residents.
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