CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY POLICY – Privacy Policy
1. Introduction
India is one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, yet it faces numerous social challenges such as poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, gender inequality, power shortages, and environmental concerns. To sustain growth and address these challenges, it is vital for individuals and organizations to assume responsibility for society, the environment, and available resources.
The concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) reflects this ethos of mutual responsibility. While CSR is not a new idea in India, the Companies Act, 2013, specifically Section 135, mandates certain companies meeting defined criteria to undertake CSR activities.
CSR emphasizes a reciprocal relationship between businesses and society—companies utilize resources like raw materials and human capital from society, and CSR ensures they give back to it. Bengal Grains Industry And Export Import Pvt Ltd (“the Company”) acknowledges its responsibility toward society and the environment and is committed to conducting its business in a socially responsible manner. This policy has been effective since May 18, 2023.
2. Applicability
This CSR Policy applies to all CSR initiatives undertaken by the Company within India as per Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013. It is applicable to the Company and all its employees.
3. Definitions
(a) Act: Refers to the Companies Act, 2013, including any amendments or re-enactments.
(b) Board: The Board of Directors of Bengal Grains Industry And Export Import Pvt Ltd.
(c) Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Refers to projects or programs related to activities specified in Schedule VII of the Act or activities recommended by the CSR Committee and approved by the Board, excluding activities undertaken in the normal course of business.
(d) CSR Committee: The Corporate Social Responsibility Committee formed by the Board.
(e) CSR Policy: Activities specified in this policy, undertaken by the Company per the recommendations of the CSR Committee and approved by the Board.
(f) Employee: Any employee of the Company, whether based in India or abroad.
4. CSR Committee
The Board will establish a CSR Committee as per the Companies Act, 2013, comprising at least three directors, including one independent director. The Board may reconstitute the Committee as deemed necessary.
5. Frequency of Meetings
The CSR Committee will meet at least once annually, either physically or through video/audio conferencing. Additional meetings may be held to review CSR activities, budgets, service agreements with NGOs, and monitoring processes.
6. Notice of Meetings
The Secretary of the Committee will issue meeting notices, including venue, date, agenda, and supporting documents. Meetings may occur in person or virtually, following Section 173 of the Act. Members requesting virtual participation must notify the Company or Secretary at least two days prior to the meeting date.
7. Functions and Responsibilities of the CSR Committee
The CSR Committee is responsible for:
(a) Formulating and recommending the CSR Policy to the Board, aligned with Section 135 and Schedule VII of the Act.
(b) Recommending CSR projects/activities and associated budgets to the Board.
(c) Suggesting policy modifications when necessary.
(d) Monitoring the implementation of the CSR Policy and reporting progress to the Board.
8. CSR Activities
The Company may undertake activities as specified under Schedule VII of the Act, including but not limited to:
(i) Eradicating hunger, poverty, and malnutrition; promoting healthcare and sanitation; ensuring safe drinking water.
(ii) Promoting education and vocational skills, especially for disadvantaged groups.
(iii) Empowering women, promoting gender equality, and supporting senior citizens and socially/economically disadvantaged groups.
(iv) Ensuring environmental sustainability and conserving natural resources.
(v) Protecting cultural heritage and promoting traditional arts.
(vi) Supporting armed forces veterans and their dependents.
(vii) Promoting sports, including rural, Paralympic, and Olympic sports.
(viii) Contributing to national relief funds for socio-economic development.
(ix) Supporting technology incubators in academic institutions.
(x) Undertaking rural development projects.
(xi) Improving slum areas.
9. Mode of Implementation
CSR activities may be implemented directly by the Company or through registered trusts, societies, or Section 8 companies, either independently or in collaboration.
10. CSR Budget
The CSR Committee will ensure compliance with the expenditure requirements outlined in Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013, and related rules.
11. Monitoring Process
The CSR Committee will monitor project implementation and ensure transparency. It will also oversee reporting mechanisms and assess progress regularly.
12. Amendment
The Board reserves the right to amend or modify this policy at any time, ensuring consistency with applicable laws and regulations.
This version simplifies language, ensures logical structure, and adheres to formal standards for corporate documentation.