The Power of Giving Back: A GMR Story of Change

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The Power of Giving Back: A GMR Story of Change

13 September 2024

At GMR, social responsibility is a core pillar that defines who we are and how we engage with the world. We actively encourage our employees to contribute to their communities, fostering a culture where giving back is not just a responsibility, but a shared passion. Our employees are not just part of an organization; they are change-makers who embody our commitment to improving lives and uplifting communities.

One powerful example of this commitment in action comes from one of our very own employees, Likmabam Ibomcha, who works at Delhi International Airport Ltd. Hailing from Wangjing, a small village in the Thoubal district of Manipur, Ibomcha’s deep connection to his roots and belief in second chances has transformed the lives of countless young people in his community.

In 2011, driven by the belief that “every person deserves a chance to prove him/herself,” Ibomcha took a step that would change the course of many lives. He founded the Palem Panthou Kids Center in his modest home, initially with just 30 students and two teachers. His mission was simple yet profound: to offer free, quality education to children who otherwise had no access to schooling. Over the years, his dream blossomed into Palem Panthou Academy, an institution that now educates 300 students, providing them with more than just academic knowledge—he is giving them the tools to build a brighter future.

Ibomcha’s commitment extended beyond the classroom. Recognizing the challenges his community faced, he ensured his students received not just an education, but also essential resources like uniforms, mid-day meals, and educational materials—all at no cost to the families. His dedication did not stop there. He later expanded his vision with the Likmabam Bino Devi Foundation, named after his mother, to provide vocational training for youth from conflict-affected areas of Manipur. Through this initiative, he collaborated with GMR’s Varalakshmi Center for Empowerment and Livelihoods, offering young people the chance to gain skills and hope, even amidst the strife of ongoing conflict.

Ibomcha also reached out to families in relief camps, offering much-needed support to displaced people. His foundation delivered food, medical supplies, and educational aid to children in three major relief camps, ensuring that the chaos of conflict would not rob them of their chance for a better future.

Ibomcha’s work demonstrates the power of employee-driven social responsibility and its far-reaching impact. GMR workforce is filled with individuals who go above and beyond, taking on causes that resonate with them and align with the Group’s overarching mission to give back to society.

At GMR, we believe that social responsibility starts with our people-and Ibomcha’s story is a shining example of the power of this belief in action.