“Initially, my parents were reluctant to send me to study in Yelahanka, Bangalore, due to concerns about the distance and high travel expenses, given the limited availability of government transportation. However, the Exide-Roots Scholarship helped convince them to support my higher education. We were informed that scholarship recipients needed to maintain a minimum of 65% marks in all subjects to continue receiving support for the next semester. I achieved 86% marks – exceeding everyone’s expectations and performed exceptionally well in my first semester. This has qualified me for the second round of the scholarship. I am deeply grateful for the Exide-Roots Scholarship, which has made this opportunity possible and enabled me to excel academically.”
Community Development
In a diverse nation such as India, focused interventions empower communities. Roots Foundation’s Community Development Program fosters comprehensive rural development, enhancing economic and social wel-being. By establishing alliances, implementing grassroots initiatives, and understanding community needs, the program promotes holistic development. This includes improving livelihoods, education access and advocating for health, wellness, and women empowerment.
English and computer classes are now conducted at Polananhalli and Cheemachanahalli schools to improve language and technical skills. Modernization efforts include providing sports equipment and updated library resources to these schools, promoting physical activity and a love for reading. At Chanahalli High School, specialized STEM classes have been introduced to foster critical thinking and innovation. Additionally, mental health welfare sessions have been organized for adolescent students to support their well-being.
To enhance the quality of education in rural schools, Roots Foundation has been collaborating with primary and upper-primary schools, providing infrastructure support such as playgrounds, kitchens, smart classes, and computers. Additionally, 1,000 RO plants have been installed, currently benefiting community members in the villages. Five high-mast street lights were erected in three villages to illuminate the streets. Efforts to modernize these schools also include the provision of sports equipment and library resources.
The program focused on uplifting communities through skill development initiatives for Self-Help Groups (SHGs), including candle-making workshops which empowered women to generate supplementary income while fostering a sense of self-sufficiency. This also provided economic opportunities and instilled a spirit of collaboration and resilience among members, driving sustainable progress at the grassroots level.
Female students have also been empowered through scholarships for higher education, catering to those with an annual family income of less than 5 lakh rupees. Scholarships have been granted to 14 girls from Devanahalli Taluk.
The Community Clinic in Polanahalli village provides daily essential services, staffed by a dedicated nurse and doctor. Regular health camps and awareness sessions were organized in both Polanahalli and Cheemachanahalli. These initiatives have benefited over 900 community members. Also, Aanganwadis have actively promoted sustainable menstrual hygiene practices and are equipped with incinerators for the safe disposal of sanitary products, benefiting over 80 women.
Environment conservation awareness sessions and initiatives have been implemented, with a particular emphasis on reducing plastic usage. Tree plantation campaigns are held, trees have been planted, and kitchen gardens established in the Aanganwadis and schools of Polanahalli and Cheemachanahalli villages, providing benefits to the students. Also, fertility camps have been organized to educate about the care of household animals.
Rajasthan and Karnataka
2,000
beneficiaries were provided with improved access to education and enhanced overall well-being within the community.
26% average increase
in student growth observed over the past two years across different grades
2,500
Farmers' livelihood enhanced in Rajasthan
20-30% increase
In family incomes in the last 10 years
Rekha BL
First Year Student
Bachelors in Arts
“As a 10th-grade student, my exposure to science was once limited to basic experiments. However, over the past four months, our STEM program has transformed my experience – I now engage in modern experiments like robotics. Also, mental health sessions have equipped me with emotional management tools which helps me stay composed during exams. I thank Exide Industries and the Roots Foundation for providing these resources and expert guidance”
