Expressnews
Chennai, October 2023
Sakthi Devi Charitable Trust, the CSR wing of Sakthi Masala Group has issued welfare cards to auto drivers in the Erode region to enable them to avail its healthcare services, such as free medical checkups and consultations, and medicines either at no cost or at reduced prices. Mr. V. Irai Anbu I.A.S (Retd.,), former Chief Secretary, Government of Tamil Nadu, handed the welfare cards to 150 auto drivers, who belong to the unorganised sector, and provided them with two pairs of uniforms each, at a function held recently.
Mr. Raja Gopal Sunkara, District Collector, Erode, delivered the special address at the function, which was presided over by the trust’s founders, Dr. P.C. Duraisamy, and Dr. Santhi Duraisamy.
Mr. Murugesan, Joint Commissioner of Labour (Social Security Scheme), provided the felicitation address. Following the welfare card distribution function, a free medical camp was also held exclusively for the auto drivers and their family members.
In his Chief Guest address, Mr. Irai Anbu, said that when he served as the secretary of Tamil Nadu Government’s tourism department, he identified 100 auto drivers in Chennai. They were given training in hospitality. This helped them recognise the importance of collecting fair charges from the tourists and being helpful to them. They were allowed to operate autos featuring ‘tourist-friendly’ labels. Their phone numbers were published on all relevant government websites. The project was a win-win for all. It contributed to the brand of Tamil Nadu, and its culture. The auto drivers were able to earn more, as they could get more business. The foreigners visiting the city felt safe and happy with the service of the trained auto drivers. He appealed to the collector of Erode district to replicate the idea in the district and promote tourism in the region.
Mr. Irai Anbu also lauded the trustees of the Sakthi Devi Charitable Trust for their steadfast commitment to social welfare initiatives spanning more than two decades.
It is to be noted that Sakthi Devi Charitable Trust runs Sakthi Hospital, which offers free medical checkups, consultations, diagnostic services, and medicines either free of charge or at discounted rates for the public. Additionally, the hospital conducts specialised health camps in the region at no cost or subsidised rates to the participants.
