IMPACT ASSESSMENT STUDY OF CSR

PROGRAMS FOR FY 2018-19

Project 14
Support towards construction of retaining wall & other civil
works for Govt. Girls Inter College, Ranikhet, Almora
District, Uttarakhand

GAIL (INDIA) LIMITED

Submitted by

INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC ENTERPRISE
(Under the aegis of the Indian Council of Social Science Research,
Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India)
 Acknowledgement
We are thankful to the executives of GAIL (INDIA) LIMITED for taking the consultancy
services of the Institute of Public Enterprise for preparation of Impact Assessment Study of CSR
Programs for the year 2018-19.

We are grateful to Mr Manoj Jain, CMD & Director (Projects) and Mr P K Gupta,
Director (HR), GAIL India Limited for providing us the opportunity to conduct the study. We
express sincere thanks to Mr. Anoop Gupta, CGM (CSR), Mr L R Verma, GM (CSR) for their
valuable insights on the corporate needs and cooperation in preparation of the report.

A report of this nature requires active association of professionals from the host
organization. We express our heartfelt gratitude to Mr Deepak Kumar Varshney, CM (CSR), Mr.
Om Prakash, Manager (CSR), for providing us all necessary support in gathering the data and
completing our work on time.

A special mention of MS. Gunjan Sharma, Manager (CSR) who has been constantly
communicating with the IPE team for solving day to day glitches without which it would be very
difficult to complete the study.

We offer our thanks to all other officers and staff of the GAIL India Limited and
implementing agencies who were involved in providing us the necessary support and help in the
preparation of this report.

Kiranmai J.
Assistant Professor, IPE
Content

Executive Summary
1. Introduction and background
1.1.About GAIL (India) Limited
1.2.About the GAIL engagement
1.3.Objectives of the project
1.4.Limitations of this study
1.5.Brief about Project ………

2. Our approach and methodology

2.1.Our approach
2.2.Assessment framework
2.3.Our methodology
2.4.Study design
2.5.Ethical Consideration

3. Coverage
3.1 Almora District Profile
3.2 Ranikhet Census and Girls Inter College, Ranikhet Profile

4. Review and Observations

4.1. Financial Review
4.2.Overall Impact
4.3.Our Findings
4.4.Observations
4.5.SDG intervention
4.6.Case Studies
4.7.Suggestions
 Executive Summary

GAIL remains committed to the principles of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) which it
strongly believes play a defining role in the development of the country. The Company’s vision
of “value creation” for all stakeholders remains the guiding force behind the social interventions.
A top-to-bottom, robust governance structure with a dedicated team of CSR professionals, helps
in evaluating and selecting meaningful social programmes which are in alignment with the areas
of intervention specified under the Companies Act 2013.

GAIL India Limited always supports “Girls’ Child Education” and allocates sufficient CSR
funds every year for strengthening the girls’ education in its operational areas and other parts of
the country, under GAIL CSR intervention area “Ujjwal”. In similar lines, GAIL India Limited
allocated approx. Rs. 100 lakhs under its CSR area Ujjwal for Support Construction of
Retaining wall at Inter-College in Ranikhet taluka of Almora district during FYs 2018-19 and
2019-20 based on requests of honorable local Member of Parliament.

Key stakeholders consulted during the study include 51 various stakeholders (students’ parents,
villagers, college management committee members above 15 years age, Headmistress, 3
teachers, 2 non teaching staff and 20 girls’ children using both questionnaire and focused group
discussions to assess the output and outcome of the project.

Output of the project:

 Providing retaining wall to Girls Inter college for safety & security of students and
teachers as well as protecting college building from landslides

Outcome of the Project:

 Improved safety & security of college/college children and teachers from landslides.
 Improved college building protection from landslides
 Chapter I
INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

1.1 About GAIL (India) Limited

GAIL (India) Limited is India’s flagship gas marketing and distribution company with operations
spread across length and breadth of India. In addition to wholly owned subsidiaries in USA and
Singapore, GAIL has also participated in Myanmar China gas pipeline and invested in City Gas
Distribution companies in Egypt and China. It was incorporated on 16 August 1984 as Gas
Authority of India Limited with a vision to leverage the gas reserves of the country for fueling
nation's industrial and economic growth. With a strong presence across the gas value chain,
which includes exploration and production, processing, transmission, distribution and marketing,
today GAIL (India) Limited has grown to become one of India's top gas exploration and
distribution companies.

GAIL currently operates 12,200 km of gas pipeline network and 2,038 km of LPG pipeline
across the length and breadth of the nation. The business portfolio of the company includes
natural gas, liquid hydrocarbons, petrochemicals, city gas distribution, LPG transmission, power
and renewables besides gas exploration and production. With a range of strategic,operational,
and financial value creating measures at its disposal, GAI L recently ventured into liquefied
natural gas re-gasification and coal gasification apart from the expansion of city gas distribution
network through joint ventures. GAIL now aims to maximize the value potential of each
portfolio company by clarifying their business models, capitalizing on their market positions, and
strengthening underdeveloped areas of value creation.

Performance Highlights
With growing impetus on climate change related issues across the globe, India has made a bold
decision of moving towards a 'Gas based Economy' for fueling its economic growth. As an apex
natural gas company of the country, GAIL has been entrusted with the responsibility of
facilitating this shift for achieving a growth that is both environment friendly and sustainable.
This responsibility is coupled with the onus of ensuring energy security and improved
accessibility in the country.

In view of the growing need for clean energy, GAIL has made significant achievement in
strengthening its infrastructure and improving its business strategy. With this, GAIL has been
able to successfully contribute its share in driving a sustainable industrial and economic growth
in the country. This contribution is aptly reflected through its customer reach and market
penetration across the length and breadth of the country. Major highlights of GAIL's business in
this regard are given below:
  Contributes more than 60% of the Natural Gas sold in India
 Supplies gas for about 67% of India’s gas-based power
 Operates more than 67% of India’s total CNG stations
 2nd largest player in Indian Polyethylene portfolio Market
 Produces every 25th LPG cylinder in India
 Operates 75% of total Natural Gas transmission in India
 Responsible for pipeline transmission of 1/6 of Total India’s LPG Consumption
 Supplies gas for about 75% of India's total fertilizers produced

Financial Performance of GAIL (India) Limited FY 2014 to 2019 (Rs. in crores)

2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19
Turnover 57,292 52,003 48,789 53,690 74,808
Profit Before Tax 4,284 3,062 5,411 6,958 9,085
Profit After Tax 3,039 2,226 3,503 4,618 6,026

1.2 About the GAIL engagement:

GAIL follows global best practices in identifying, implementing, sustaining, and monitoring its
CSR programmes to maximize sustainability, scalability, and transparency.

GAIL adopts a project-based approach for almost all CSR projects and activities of the company.
All relevant stakeholder groups are involved at different CSR project cycle stages from need
identification, planning, implementation, monitoring, sustainability, and exit planning to impact
evaluation. For almost over the last two decades, the company's corporate social responsibility
function is being actualized through an independent department manned by professionals with
cross functional competencies ranging from technical expertise to degrees in management, social
work, rural management, etc. To strengthen CSR programs in future, GAIL collaborates with
experts from diverse sectors, including Non-Governmental Organizations, Civil Society bodies,
Government departments etc. to devise a highly sophisticated and technically sound yet
extremely simple and approachable model of CSR implementation.

GAIL implemented CSR programmes primarily in the rural areas, which are close to the major
work centres. As identified under Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013, GAIL has identified
seven broad areas of CSR intervention, each of which is titled by the objective they seek to
achieve viz. Arogya (Wellness) - Nutrition, Health and Sanitation and Drinking Water projects,
Ujjwal (Towards a Bright future) – Education initiatives, Kaushal (Skill) - Livelihood
Generation and Skill development initiatives, Unnati (Progress)- Rural Development, Sashakt
(Empowerment)- Women Empowerment initiatives, Saksham (Capable) - Care of the elderly and
differently-abled, and Harit (Green) - Environment centric initiatives.
 GAIL’s India Limited CSR Vision
Vision Statement - GAIL, through its CSR initiatives, will continue to enhance value creation
in the society and in the community in which it operates through its services, conduct,and
initiatives to promote sustained growth for the society and community, in fulfilling its role as a
Socially Responsible Corporate, with environmental concern.

CSR Budget Allocation & Spend Details for the Year 2018-19
Compliance Item Mandated Spends (Rs. in Actual Spends (Rs. in crore)
crore)
Total CSR Expenditure 87.21 (2% of avg. Net profit of 119.29 (2.74%)
in FY 2018-19 preceding 3 years)
Swachhata Action Plan 28.78 (33% of mandated CSR 33.68 (38.62% of mandated CSR
spends) spends)
Thematic Area 52.33 (60% of mandated CSR 61.75 (70.81% of mandated CSR
spends) spends)

S.No Thrust Area Total Expenditure Percentage to Total

(in crores) CSR Expenditure
1 Arogya (Drinking Water, Healthcare & 44.84 37.59
Sanitation)
2 Kaushal (Skill Development) 41.47 34.77
3 Saksham (Care for Elderly & Differently 1.07 0.90
Abled)
4 Sashakt (Empowering Women) 0.54 0.45
5 Ujjawal (Promoting Education) 14.21 11.91
6 Unnati (Rural Development) 13.6 11.40
7 Capacity Building (Training, Impact 0.66 0.55
Assessment, Publications & Branding)
8 Others (Promotion of Sports, Heritage & 2.89 2.42
Slum Development)
Total 119.28 100%

Implementation:
The majority of the CSR programmes were implemented in and around the ‘local areas’ (within
a radius of 100 Kms) adjoining GAIL installations which are largely located in remote
areas/along the GAIL pipeline. The balance projects can be taken up anywhere in the country, as
per the company requirement/imperatives from time to time.

CSR activities shall be undertaken through various agencies, including registered trusts/societies
or companies or autonomous bodies/government departments. In the case of
NGOs/Trust/Pvt.Companies, an established track record of 03 years in undertaking similar
projects or programs would be essential.

Monitoring and Feedback:

Transparency and effective implementation of the CSR programs at each work centre, a robust
monitoring mechanism will be instituted by the company, providing for periodic monitoring at
different levels using the following indicative medium:
1. Monthly Progress Report
2. Quarterly Progress Report
3. Video Conferencing
4. Site Visits
5. Documentary evidence, including photographs, films, and videos.
6. Other in – house monitoring mechanisms, as determined by Work Centre CSR Review
Committee/CSR Task Force at Corporate Office.

1.3 Objectives of the Project

 To assess the project objectives whether to meet the need of the Targeted beneficiaries or
not.
 To examine the functional analysis of project “Support towards construction of retaining
wall & other civil works for Govt. Girls Inter College, Ranikhet, Almora District,
Uttarakhand”.
 To understand the effectiveness of the project in terms of its outcomes, impact, strengths,
weakness, opportunities and threats.
 To extend the action plan after findings and recommendations.

1.4 Limitations of the Study:

 We could not reach some beneficiary stakeholders’ groups as they were not available
during our field survey.
 Some stakeholders did not share their background details.

1.5 Brief about the Project

Need for the project:
Landslide is the most commonly occurring hazard in the north and north-eastern Himalaya
Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats and Vindhyan, India. Similarly Landslides usually occur during
heavy rain falls in the Ranikhet town of Almora district, where Ranikhet inter college is located.
The IPE team found that a four-classroom building was destroyed four years ago due to these
landslides, as the college principal shared with the IPE team. The college building one side area
has a completely steep slope area; there would be a high risk of threatening of college building as
well as lives of college teachers due to soil erosions and other disasters during rain season. For
the safety and security of college children and teachers/lectures, honourable MP and central
cabinet minister took the initiation of construction of retaining wall at Ranikhet Inter college by
seeking the CSR funds from GAIL during 2018-19.

GAIL India Limited Initiatives:

GAIL India Limited constructed retaining wall for the purpose of college building protection as
well as safety and security of college teachers & children from landslides. A technical
specification of retaining wall is given below.
I) Length of retaining wall: 21.645 RMT
II) Depth of retaining wall: 26.50 RMT
III) Height of retaining wall: 12 RMT
IV) Developed landing area from R1 to R2: 4.615 RMT
V) Developed landing area from R2 to R3: 4.615 RMT
VI) Developed landing area from R3 to R4: 4.615 RMT
V) Total developed landing area from R1 to R4: 13.845
VI) Total from R1 to R4 to school building: 14.845

VII) Plain concrete base: 4 inches thickness, length: 2.25 meters

VIII) Reinforced Cement Concrete
R1: RCC base: 2.25 meters, width 1.5 meters, height: 3 m
R2: RCC base: 2.25 meters, width 1.5 meters, height: 3 m
R3: RCC base: 2.25 meters, width 1.5 meters, height: 3 m
R4: RCC base: 2.25 meters, width 1.5 meters, height: 3 m
 Chapter II: Our Approach and Methodology
2.1 Our Approach

● Initially we interacted with project leaders of the first party GAIL India Limited to
understand the company’s view point and approach towards the CSR programme.
● To get a more holistic view, we interviewed the implementation agencies to understand
the implementation of the project, challenges, and results of the project.
● Documentary evidence was verified.
 ● Interactions with stakeholders of the projects were also organised. Select project sites
have been visited to confirm the initiatives.
● Data has also been collected from the beneficiaries by using focused group discussion.
The questions are based on the background, development, current conditions, and overall
implementation of the project.
● Various other stakeholders like villagers, key role holders of the villages, students,
parents, teachers, farmers, contractors of the project and other key officials involved in
the project implementation were also approached to analyse the initiative's impact.

2.2 Assessment Framework

Under GAIL Ujjwal – in the CSR area of Education, GAIL Arogya – in the CSR area of
preventive healthcare and GAIL Unnati - in the CSR area of Rural Development, GAIL India
Limited intervention construction of retaining wall for Girls Inter college may be viewed as
input, which is expected to result in providing better protection facilities for college building as
well as teachers and college/college children from landslides. The retaining wall facility protects
the lives of college children and teachers and college buildings from sudden happening
landslides, resulting in improved safety & security of college/college children and teachers from
landslides and Improved college building protection from landslides.
 Impact Assessment Study Diagram
Project Name: Support towards construction of
GAIL India Limited CSR Vision
retaining wall & other civil works for Govt. Girls
GAIL, through its CSR initiatives, will
Inter College, Ranikhet, Almora District,
continue to enhance value creation in
Uttarakhand
the society and in the community in
Objective: To provide retaining wall for protection
which it operates, through its services,
of college building as well as safety and security of
conduct & initiatives, so as to promote
college/college students and teachers/lecturers
sustained growth for the society and
community, in fulfillment its role as a
Socially Responsible Corporate, with
environmental concern.
Strategies
Key Stakeholders  Identification of steep slope area for
1) GAIL India Limited; 2) UPSICL; 3) Honorable local construction of retaining wall to protect
M.P, MLA and concerned public representatives 4) college/college building from landslides
college/college development committees, principal,  Selection of work contractors
teachers, students, parents and citizens of Ranikhet; 5)  Retaining wall engineering drawings
Concerned education department officials; 6) Government
 Project plan and work initiation
Revenue and disaster management departments’ officials.
 Periodical reviews on work progress
 Execution
 Hand over the retaining wall to college
and exit from the project

Project Output
 Providing retaining wall to Girls Inter college for safety & security of students and
teachers as well as protecting college building from landslides

 Improved safety & security of college/college children and teachers from landslides.

 Improved college building protection from landslides

Relevance:
Ranikhet Girls Inter College offers classes from I to XII and provides free education to girls in
Ranikhet town, established in 1928. Most of the downtrodden children are getting benefits from
this initiative. Total college strength is about 199. Four years ago, a four-classroom building was
completely damaged due to a landslide near a steep slope area, one side boundary of the college.
The frequent landslides and soil erosions adversely affect college building foundations, the
protection of college buildings and the lives of college/college children and teachers; therefore,
the honourable local M.P, M.L.A. and public representatives decided to construct a retaining
wall for Girls Inter College, Ranikhet. They supported sanctioning the C.S.R. funds from GAIL
India Limited for F.Y.s 2018-19 and 2019-20 for this initiation. This project is relevant, i.e.
supported the strengthening of girls' children education and strengthened college building
protection and lives of teachers & college/college children.

Efficiency:

In the case of the retaining wall, the program's efficiency is defined as how the retaining wall
gives support to slope material by restraining the lateral movement of the material. Soil
parameter like bearing capacity influences the design of the retaining wall. 

The most important consideration in the retaining walls proper design and installation is to
recognize and counteract the tendency of the retained material to move downslope due to
gravity; This creates lateral earth pressure behind the wall, which depends on the angle of
internal friction and the cohesive strength of the retained material and the direction and
magnitude of movement the retaining structure undergoes.

Lateral earth pressures are zero at the top of the wall and – in the homogenous ground – increase
proportionally to a maximum value at the lowest depth. Earth pressures will push the wall
forward or overturn it if not properly addressed. Also, any groundwater behind the wall that is
not dissipated by a drainage system causes hydrostatic pressure on the wall. The total pressure or
thrust may be assumed to act at one-third from the lowest depth for lengthwise stretches of
uniform height.

It is important to have proper drainage behind the wall to limit the pressure to the wall's design
value. Drainage materials will reduce or eliminate the hydrostatic pressure and improve the
stability of the material behind the wall.
 

Effectiveness:
The criterion effectiveness is applied at two levels – both the level of output and the outcome.
The output is effective when the created asset protects college building and college/college
children and teachers; on the other hand, the outcome is effective when anticipated results are
obtained.
The IPE team found two intended outcomes are. i) Improved safety & security of college/college
children and teachers from landslides and earthquakes, ii) Improved college building protection
from landslides.

The first outcome is measured by comparing present and past conditions of safety and security
measures of teachers and children at college premises. Earlier, there would be a dangerous
situation of threatening life to college children due to landslides during heavy rains. Presently,
this situation is now under control after the construction of the retaining wall. The second
outcome is assessed situations between present and past conditions of building safety and
security. Earlier, four classroom buildings were destroyed due to landslides from heavy rains,
resulting in logging water and heavy debris on college premises. Although the current retaining
wall supported the college building, preventing landslides and water loggings, there was also a
proper drainage facility to pump the rainwater downside slope area.

 Innovation:
The implementing agency followed the structural design of constructed retaining wall in
Government Intercollege, Ranikhet, Uttarakhand, i.e. I.S. codes and N.B.C. 2005 and took all
measures to fulfil the criteria of earthquake-resistant structure. 

Sustainability:
The criterion of sustainability depends on the level of outcome. Therefore, the implementing
agency should consider the below mentioned for the sustainability of any retaining wall
construction.
 The choice of wall depends on local resources, local skill, hill slope angle, foundation
conditions, the slope of backfill, and compatibility of materials and seismicity of the
region.
 The construction of a series of retaining walls one above another on an unstable or
marginally stable slope is avoided as it adds more pressure on the lower walls,
destabilizing the slope contrary to stabilizing the slope. In such cases, the unstable slope
shall be stabilized by afforestation, surface/subsurface drainage system, etc.
 Improper backfill and poor drainage behind the wall involve complicated drainage
conditions normally not considered in the normal design. Proper drainage behind the
walls shall, therefore, be provided
 
The implementing agency followed disaster mitigation & management rules to protect the
community and environment from the overwhelming obliteration caused by disasters framed by
the Disaster Mitigation & Management centre working under the aegis of the Department of
Disaster Management, Government of Uttarakhand.
Community Participation:

Community involvement is an essential element for measuring the performance, results, and
impact of the project. The project key informants of Internal and external stakeholders play an
important role during the project implementation period and afterwards for reaping good results
of providing better security facilities for both building and people. Based on their feedback,
appropriate corrective measures are initiated for achieving better results and sustainability of the
project. There are two stages in community participation of the construction of retaining walls
for better results.
1) Construction of retaining wall: They give feedback on the quality of work. Work execution is
as per the schedule and within the budget.
2) After Handing over the retaining wall to the college: All stakeholders are invited to give their
feedback on the maintenance and operation of the retaining wall. If there are any defects found in
the retaining wall, we will need to repair it.

2.3 Our Methodology

Companies receive numerous CSR project proposals throughout the year. They often struggle to
pick the most eligible projects in terms of compliance and impact. Establishing an evaluation
framework for the appraisal of the project concepts and implementing agencies that ensure
complete alignment with the CSR policy. Evaluation and impact assessments of the CSR
Projects are important tools for judging the CSR projects whether CSR projects are being
implemented properly or not as per predefined standards. This process involves direct interaction
with stakeholders, collecting feedback, implementing the projects, and necessary action to be
initiated by the implementation agency.

Every CSR activity is planned and implemented with some anticipated impact on society or
environment. It is against such perception and expectation of impact that the completed activity /
project should be measured to ascertain the degree of its success or failure. At the time of impact
assessment, a well-documented and detailed baseline survey or need assessment study done at
the commencement of the activity comes in handy for comparison of data. Impact is the
cumulative effect of outcome(s) on the developmental process, affecting society, economy, and
environment.

The CSR evaluation could be conducted in two phases 1. One focused on the CSR activities and
their impact, while the other focused on CSR policy and processes within the organization and
their implications on CSR challenges and impact. The first phase of the evaluation focused on
assessing the relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, impact, and sustainability of the investee’s
CSR activities. Impact Assessment is a means of measuring organizational activities'
effectiveness and judging the significance of changes brought about by those activities.

https://indiacsr.in/tag/dalberg/
1
  to assess the outcome CSR Project
 to assess the efficacy, effectiveness and performance of the CSR Project
 to assess the functional analysis of the activity
 to assess and influencing factors of the activities

2.4 Study Design

The present study is descriptive. Both primary and secondary data has been used for the study.

● Primary data is collected by visiting field locations (interactions with beneficiaries,

implementing agencies and take the views of them and decide impact of the activity
based on their opinions (SWOT analysis)
● Secondary data analysis has been supplied by implementing agencies, CSR department,
and other departments at GAIL,
● Stakeholders interactions were conducted telephonically due to Covid pandemic

Impact is measured considering the six criteria of relevance, efficiency, effectiveness,

innovation, sustainability and community participation. A five point likert scale has been used.
The rating of the scale is 1= Poor, 2= Fair, 3= Good, 4= Very good and 5= Outstanding.

IPEs team visited the GAIL and interacted with the CSR Department, and collected all the
relevant information regarding the various programs funded during 2019-20. The IPE team
reviewed the past and present initiatives and verified the documents and existence of the
projects. The team further conducted a review of the projects, helping the organization enhance
the overall CSR goals and objectives.

Study Tools: Qualitative tools, a semi-structured questionnaire, and key Informant Interview. The
interviews were conducted with policymakers and stakeholders, enabling to find answers for the
following questions:

● Why it is needed the project (situation analysis) before initiation),

 Project sanction and stakeholders’ roles and responsibilities
 GAIL Initiation on CSR activities
 Performance analysis
 Stakeholders involvement
 Sustainability of the project
 Give the suggestions to GAIL on practical problems at project sites and give the
suggestions to GAIL for future taking up CSR projects.

Sampling: This sampling method involves the purposive deliberate selection

2.5 Ethical Consideration

All ethical considerations were taken into account during the study. Prior to interview, the
consent was taken from all research participants. The respondents/research participants were
informed about purpose of the study. They were also told that the data or information collected
from them will be confidential. All the conversations were made in Hindi. Respondents were
also given a choice to respond or not respond to the questions asked.

https://www.constrofacilitator.com/retaining-wall-design-and-its-types-used-on-construction/
https://nidm.gov.in/PDF/pubs/Landslide_Preparedness_Guide_.pdf

Chapter III: Coverage

3.1 Almora District Profile
Almora is a hill district in eastern part of Uttarakhand i.e. the Kumaon Division. This district is
surrounded by Pithoragarh district to the East, Garhwal Division to the West, Bageshwar district
to the North and Nainital district to the South. Almora district has a total area of 3139 sq.km.of
which around 1309 sq.km is forest area. District Almora is known for its rich history, cultural
and spiritual heritage, beautiful landscapes, handicrafts, and cuisine. It is an important centre for
art and culture of Kumaon region.

Topography:
The topography of the district ranges from 750m to more than 2000m above the mean sea level.
It has been classified into two regions viz. the Hill region and the Valley region. The Hill region
constitutes the high mountains of Dotiyal (Manila), Malikhaet (Syalde), Bhonkhal (Sult),
Chaubatiya, Binsar etc. These areas are densely covered with evergreen and deciduous forests of
Burans, Baanj, Chir, Devdar, Kafal etc. On the other hand, the regionon the banks of rivers at the
altitude between 600m to 1200m above mean sea level is the Valley region. This region is
locally called Sera viz. Basulisera, Rawalsera, Beratsera, Someshwarsera, Chaukhutiya, Masisera
etc. to name few. These Sera (valleys) are very fertile and has irrigation channels and micro
canals.

Climate:
The climatic conditions depend on the altitude of the region. This district experiences climatic
conditions varying from sub-tropical to temperate. The annual temperature ranges from - 2°C to
36°C. There occurs heavy rainfall from July to September, with the higher reaches experiencing
snowfall in the winter season.

District Almora forms nearly 5.78% of the state’s total geographical area. The district has a
population of 6,22,506, as per the census 2011, of which the male population is 2,91,081 and the
female population is 3,31,425. District’s population forms nearly 6.15% of the state’s population
and more than 90% of the population resides in rural areas. Population density of the district for
2011 census is 198, which has increased from 170 in 2001, making it a fifth most densely
populated district in the state. Almora has a Sex Ratio of 1139, higher than the State and
National average. The district has an average birth rate of 15.80 per thousand population and an
average death rate of 6.00, as on 2016-17. (Source: Statistical Magazine, Almora)

Further, if we see the age wise population data of the district, as in figure 2.3, the age group of
20-49 years constitute only 38% of the total population. This is the working population and has
migrated to the urban centres of the state, country or abroad for better opportunities in livelihood,
education, health etc. The population of the age group below 20 years is 41.42% of the total
population and this portion of the population is the coming generation of the migrants from the
district in the near future, if the present socio-economic conditions are not improved.
Livelihood percentages of Almora district:
Agriculture: 39%, Labour: 34%, Govt. Service: 11%, Dairy: 4%, Horticulture: 2%, Others: 10%
Source: Uttarakhand Migration Commission Report, 2018

District Educational Institutes:

Junior Basic Colleges: 1458; Senior Basic Colleges: 159 (Girls: 29); Higher Secondary Colleges:
369 (Girls: 39); Degree Colleges: 6; PG Colleges: 7 (2016-17 DES, Almora)

Economy:
Almora is a hill district, majority of the economy depends on traditional agriculture, horticulture,
livestock, forest & logging, and mining & quarrying. The size of the economy i.e. GDDP at
Current Prices is estimated Rs.4,28,018 lakh in year 2011-12, Rs.4,90,303 lakh in year 2012-13,
Rs.5,63,108 lakh in year 2013-14, Rs.5,58,426 lakh in year 2014-15, Rs.5,98,345 lakh for year
2015-16 & Rs.6,60,378 lakh for the year 2016-17. In terms of percentage growth the size of the
economy increase by 14.55% in year 2012-13, 14.85% in year 2013-14, -0.83% in year 2014-
15, 7.15% in year 2015-16RE & 10.37% in the year 2016-17 with respect to previous year
respectively. Growth of the economy i.e. GDDP at Constant Prices is estimated Rs.4,28,018 lakh
in year 2011- 12, Rs.4,58,385 lakh in year 2012-13, Rs.5,06,144 lakh in year 2013-14,
Rs.4,88,369 lakh in year 2014-15, Rs.5,11,911 lakh for year 2015-16RE & is provisionally
estimated Rs.5,45,139 lakh for the year 2016-17. In terms of percentage growth, GDDP at
constant price i.e. economy registered growth of 7.09% in year 2012-13, 10.42% in year 2013-
14, -3.51% in year 2014-15, 4.82% in year 2015-16 RE & 6.49% in the year 2016-17 with
respect to previous year respectively as compared to the state average of 7.9 % in 2016-17. It has
been reported in the HDR 2018 that the district has 30.7% of the population below poverty line
as against the state average of 15.6%.

Per capita income is estimated Rs.60,550 in year 2011-12, Rs.70,056 in year 2012-13, Rs.79,866
in year 2013-14, Rs.80,512 in year 2014-15, Rs.86,961 for year 2015-16RE & is provisionally
estimated Rs.96,786 for the year 2016-17. In terms of percentage growth, per capita NDDP at
current price or per capita income increase by 15.70% in year 2012-13, 14.00% in year 2013-14,
0.81% in year 2014-15, 8.01% in year 2015-16 & 11.30% in the year 2016-17 with respect to
previous year respectively. The per capita income of the district for 2016-17 is Rs.96,786,
whereas for Hardwar it is Rs.2,54,050 i.e. more than 2.5 times that of District Almora. If we
consider the income of the highest earning member of a rural family, nearly 73% of them earn
less than Rs.5000 a month, this is the least income in the state after district Uttarkashi. (Source:
DES, Almora). It has been estimated in HDR 2018 that the per capita income of males in the
district is about double to that of females. (Rs.1,19,000 to Rs.51,900).
Source: DES, Almora

Monthly Income of Rural Family:

Almora District: Less than Rs. 5000/- (73.30%); Rs. 5000/- to 10000/- (16.24%); Rs. More than
10,000/- (10.46%)
Source: Uttarakhand Economic Survey, 2017

Primary Sector- Agriculture is the primary source of livelihood; however, both the interest of
the farmers and the contribution of Primary Sector is decreasing. Agriculture’s contribution to
GSDP has declined from 31% in 2011-12 to 21% in 2016-17. Out of total geographical area of
3,139 sq km only 17.11% is the cultivable land. Major crops like Mandua, paddy, wheat, pulses,
oilseeds etc. are cultivated in the district. The topography and climate of the district is
appropriate for Horticulture activities but at present engages only 1.51% of the population. This
sector must be explored and tapped.

Secondary Sector- It has remained constant around 34% between 2011-12 and 2016-17 towards
the GSDP contribution. The stagnant Secondary Sector has added the problem of low rural
incomes. Due to the disinterest in non-productive agriculture and the unavailability of other
livelihood options, the working age group youth is migrating to nearby cities or outside the state
better opportunities. There is a need for focussing on micro, small and cottage industries in the
district. Further, there are few textile and wooden work clusters in the district which can be
promoted through Individual artisans and SHGs to reach economies of scale for a bigger market.
Tertiary Sector- Contribution of the Tertiary Sector in the GDDP has increased from 36% in
2011-12 to 44% in 2016-17. This is largely due to availability of tourism and allied services and
facilities. This sector includes Hotels & Restaurants, Homestays, transport services like bus/taxi
etc. and due to a great tourist destination this sector contributes maximum to the GDDP. This
service sector is a great employer and given focus on this local livelihoods can be generated. 14
The district level Human Development Index (HDI) was amongst the lowest districts in the state
between 0.715 and 0.662.

As per the Aarthik Sarvekshan report (Economic Survey 2018-19) published by the Government
of Uttarakhand, there is a contrasting disparity amongst the hill and the plain districts of the state.
The “Different Dimensions and Composite Index” has placed the District Almora at the 9th
position, out of all 13 districts. District Almora has performed abysmal on the parameters like
Economy, Basic Amenities, and Demographics. The other parameters on which the districts were
evaluated are Agriculture, Health Services, and Education.

3.2 Ranikhet Census and Girls Inter College, Ranikhet Profile

Ranikhet Tehsil Details:
Ranikhet is Tehsil in Uttarakhand state, As per the 2021 Aadhar estimates, Ranikhet Tehsil
population in 2021 is 124,154. According to 2011 census of India, Total Ranikhet population is
100,124 people are living in this Tehsil, of which 49,720 are male and 50,404 are female.
Population of Ranikhet in 2020 is 120,149 Literate people are 75,252 out of 41,223 are male and
34,029 are female. Total workers are 46,617 depends on multi skills out of which 25,877 are men
and 20,740 are women. Total 14,035 Cultivators are depended on agriculture farming out of
5,288 are cultivated by men and 8,747 are women. 324 people works in agricultural land as a
labour in Ranikhet, men are 215 and 109 are women

The Ranikhet Cantonment Board has population of 18,886 of which 11,412 are males while
7,474 are females as per report released by Census India 2011. In Ranikhet Cantonment Board,
Female Sex Ratio is of 655 against state average of 963. Moreover Child Sex Ratio in Ranikhet
is around 843 compared to Uttarakhand state average of 890. Literacy rate of Ranikhet city is
95.21 % higher than state average of 78.82 %. In Ranikhet, Male literacy is around 97.79 %
while female literacy rate is 91.18 %. Out of total population, 8,326 were engaged in work or
business activity. Of this 7,434 were males while 892 were females. In census survey, worker is
defined as person who does business, job, service, and cultivator and labour activity. Of total
8326 working population, 95.22 % were engaged in Main Work while 4.78 % of total workers
were engaged in Marginal Work. Schedule Caste (SC) constitutes 16.23 % while Schedule Tribe
(ST) was 0.23 % of total population in Ranikhet (CB).

Girls Inter College, Ranikhet Profile:

Established: 1928
Classes I to XII
Total strength: 199 girls children
Teachers/lectures strength: 26
Non-teaching strength: 04
S.No Class Total Number
1 1 2
2 2 0
3 3 3
4 4 4
5 5 4
6 6 11
7 7 12
8 8 12
9 9 24
10 10 38
11 11 34
12 12 science 25
13 12 arts 30
Total 199

Girls’ Inter College, Ranikhet, Almora district, Uttarakhand

 Chapter IV: Review and Observations

4.1 Financial Review

Project Name: Support towards construction of retaining wall & other civil works for Govt
Girls Inter College, Ranikhet, Almora (Uttarakhand).

As per MoU As per CA Utilization Certificate

Total Amount allocated Rs. 98.3 lakhs + GST For FY 2018-19: 49.15 lakhs + GST,
For FY 2018-19: 49.15 lakhs + GST, For FY 2019-20: Rs. 49.15 lakhs + GST
For FY 2019-20: Rs. 49.15 lakhs + GST (Certificated attached below)
 4.2 Overall Impact

S. Parameter College College Ranikhet Educationalist Concerned

N Students Development Citizens and s Education
o and Committee concerned department
Teacher Members public officials
s and Parents representative
s
1 Improved the safety Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
and security of
college children and
teachers
2 Improved the Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
college buildings
protection after
construction of
retaining wall
3 Improved rainwater Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
drainage facilities
and reduced water
logging problem
4 Improved the Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
quality of teaching
and students
learning outcomes
5 Project Supported Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
strengthening of
girl child education
6 Improved scope to Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
construct additional
classrooms to meet
the future demand
of starting new
sections or courses
in this region after
construction of
retaining wall.
Overall satisfaction Very Very Good Very Good Very Good Very Good
Good 4/5) 4/5) 4/5) 4/5)
4/5)
Impact was measured considering majorly the six criteria of relevance, efficiency, effectiveness,
innovation, sustainability, and community participation.
1= Poor, 2= Fair, 3= Good, 4= Very good and 5= Outstanding

Sl. No Criteria Supports Construction of Retaining

wall at Inter College in Ranikhet of
Almora district
1 Relevance 5
2 Efficiency 4
3 Effectiveness 4
4 Innovation 4
5 Sustainability 4
6 Community 4
Participation
Overall 4

4.3 Findings
Quantitative data (Total Sample 51 / Age group above 15 years):
College students’ parents and college development committee members)
S.No Parameter Finding – Result
1 Improved Safety and 1) Highly 2) Dissatisfied 3) Neutral 4) Satisfied 5) Highly
Security of college Dissatisfied Satisfied
children after providing
retaining wall to 9.80% 15.69% 17.65% 49.02% 7.84%
college.
2 Improved safety and 1) Highly 2) Dissatisfied 3) Neutral 4) Satisfied 5) Highly
security of college Dissatisfied Satisfied
building from
landslides, earthquakes 11.76% 9.80% 17.65% 54.90% 5.88%
and other disasters.
3 Quality of teaching is 1) Highly 2) Dissatisfied 3) Neutral 4) Satisfied 5) Highly
available at college Dissatisfied Satisfied
11.76% 15.69% 13.73% 54.90% 3.92%
4 Students’ learning 1) Highly 2) Dissatisfied 3) Neutral 4) Satisfied 5) Highly
outcomes Dissatisfied Satisfied
5.88% 7.84% 27.45% 52.94% 5.88%
5 Project really met the 1) Highly 2) Dissatisfied 3) Neutral 4) Satisfied 5) Highly
needs and expectations Dissatisfied Satisfied
of key stakeholders
9.80% 11.76% 15.69% 56.86% 5.88%
6 Process for 1) Highly 2) Dissatisfied 3) Neutral 4) Satisfied 5) Highly
implementing the Dissatisfied Satisfied
project is transparent
15.69% 5.88% 27.45% 41.18% 9.80%

7 Project outcomes likely 1) Highly 2) Dissatisfied 3) Neutral 4) Satisfied 5) Highly

to be sustained Dissatisfied Satisfied
7.84% 5.88% 27.45% 43.14% 15.69%
8 Overall Satisfaction 1) Highly 2) Dissatisfied 3) Neutral 4) Satisfied 5) Highly
levels Dissatisfied Satisfied
17.65% 11.76% 9.80% 49.02% 11.76%

Scope of the Project

The UPSICL submitted designs and estimate for construction of ✓
retaining wall as per state schedule rates / CPWD rates (as
applicable) taking into account site conditions, soil strata, safety
factors etc. Thereafter construction work was undertaken as per
approved designs and the facility was handed over to District
Administration/Authorities for upkeep
 Project start date and end date as per MoU: 2.11.2018 &
30.11.2019

Project start date and end date actual work execution by 05.01.2019 &
implementing agency
30.07.2019

4.4 Observations:

IPE team observed that GAIL India Limited has created the following below mentioned
infrastructure facilities at Karumalloor PHC center.

S.No Name of the Retaining wall details Coverage PHC

 work Locations Coverage
population
1 Construction GAIL India limited Government 199 girls’
of retaining Construction rooms details: Inter college, children
wall I) Length of retaining wall: 21.645 Ranikhet, from I to
RMT Almora district, XII
II) Depth of retaining wall: 26.50 Uttarakhand
RMT (Total
III) Height of retaining wall: 12 Ranikhet
RMT and its
IV) Developed landing area from surrounding
R1 to R2: 4.615 RMT villages
V) Developed landing area from were
R2 to R3: 4.615 RMT benefitted)
VI) Developed landing area from
R3 to R4: 4.615 RMT
V) Total developed landing area
from R1 to R4: 13.845
VI) Total from R1 to R4 to school
building: 14.845

VII) Plain concrete base: 4 inches

thickness, length: 2.25 meters

VIII) Reinforced Cement

Concrete
R1: RCC base: 2.25 meters, width
1.5 meters, height: 3 m
R2: RCC base: 2.25 meters,
width 1.5 meters, height: 3 m
R3: RCC base: 2.25 meters, width
1.5 meters, height: 3 m
R4: RCC base: 2.25 meters, width
1.5 meters, height: 3 m

4.5 SDG Alignment

Uniqueness of the Project

 Supported strengthening of Girls’ inter-college in Ranikhet by the construction of a
retaining wall
 It is unique from other projects. Constructed retaining wall provides complete protection
to college buildings and people lives from earthquakes and landslides.
  Developed secure rainwater outlet channels to dump rainwater into the downside
systematically.  
 Reduced the water stagnations in the college building area.
 Encouraged Girls children education in this region

SDG Alignment
 Supports SDG Goal Number 3: Good Health and Well Being; SDG Goal Number 4:
Quality Education; SDG Goal Number 5: Gender Equality; SDG Goal Number 6: Clean
Water and Sanitation and other related SDG goals
 Project covers schedule VII, section 135 Companies act 2013 i.e
i) CSR thrust area – Promoting Healthcare, Drinking Water and Sanitation (item no. 1)
ii) CSR thrust area – Promoting Education (item no. 2)
iii) CSR thrust area – Rural Development Projects (item no. 10)
 Supports National Education policy of Girl child education

4.6 Case Studies

Case Study 1:
Interaction with college students’ parents
i) Smt Prabha Devi, Khania village
ii) Smt Basnti Devi, Eroli
iii) Smt Bhagwati Devi, Erode

The Ranikhet college students’ parents shared that the Ranikhet hill station area is a risk-prone
zone, causing frequent landslides due to heavy rains, earthquakes and other disasters resulting in
a mound of rocks, boulders, fallen trees, and mud 30-50 meters in height posing a danger to the
people. The same type of landslide occurred three years ago, causing damage to the four-store
classroom building due to the lack of a retaining wall at the steep sloping area of one side of the
college building. In the absence of building safety, Girls’ children parents were reluctant to join
their children at this college, resulting in dropouts for girls’ children. It was the long-pending
issue of college. Finally, a kind-hearted local honourable MP sorted out this issue by sanctioning
GAIL CSR funds to construct a retaining wall to support college building. After the construction
of the retaining wall, parents feel free to send their children to this Inter College.

Case Study 2:
Interaction with SMC committee members:
i) Shri Lalit Mohan, President, New Basti-Ranikhet
ii) Smt Janaki Devi, Vice-President, Vice-President, Khania Village
iii) Smt Priya Arya, Village Pradhan, Khania Village
SMC committee members shared that landslides are common in this area. It is a natural,
geological phenomenon involving land movement. However, it can be devastating to precious
public properties and lives during heavy rains, earthquakes, and other disasters. However,
usually, landslides occurs either a natural or human cause such as soil erosion, earthquakes,
melting glaciers, deforestation, cultivation, construction. Landslides can affect a limited area or
can be true natural disasters. Whatever the situation, finding a solution is essential in preventing
further damages such as building damages or roadblocks.

Similarly, Ranikhet college main building was under threat due to frequent landslides, which
would pose a high risk of college children safety and security. Moreover, high soil erosion
during heavy rains weakened college building foundations and walls due to lack of support at
steep slope downside. Honourable Member of Parliament sorted all these problems by
constructing a retaining wall through GAIL CSR funds.

Case Study 3:
Kumari Bisowla Devi, Headmistress, Girls’ Inter-college, Ranikhet
Headmistress shared that Ranikhet Girls’ Inter-college is one of the best inter colleges in
Ranikhet taluka, established in 1928 long back, offers free education to girls studying from I to
XII standard. Most children belong to economically weaker sections of families. However, in
this region, education facilities are not up to mark due to the geographical condition of hill areas.
Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen the existing education infrastructure facilities for
providing quality education levels to inter-college girls. However, there was a plunge in college
strength day by day due to various reasons mentioned below.
1) There are 12 classrooms and four laboratories available now to teach I to XII standards. But,
unfortunately, existed four-classroom building was completely damaged due to landslides.
Landslides were the main reason, and most parents were afraid to send their children to this
college earlier.
2) Classroom teaching would be temporarily abeyance during heavy rains and other disasters due
to insecurity of building protection and lives of teachers and children.
3) Ranikhet Girls Inter-college only offers Hindi medium classes. Presently there is a huge
demand for English medium classes.

Due to the Honorable local M.P and other public representatives’ efforts, GAIL India Limited
constructed a retaining wall with cost of approximately 100 lakhs under its CSR intervention.
The project work was initiated during January 2019 and completed in July 2019.
After construction of retaining wall, the transformational changes are at college
1) Improved protection of college building
2) Improved safety and security of college students and teachers

Case Study 4:
Interaction with various stakeholders
i) Shri Rajendra Kumar, Ranikhet
ii) Shri Rajendra Singh, Ranikhet
iii) Smt Jamila Begum, New Basthi
iv) Smt Deepa Mehra, Mangchauda village
v) Smt Jyotsana Pandey, Gagasa, Ranikhet

On interaction with various villages' stakeholders of Ranikhet taluka, the IPE team found that
most girls' parents are interested in sending their children to college after constructing the
retaining wall. As a result, XI and XII's standard students performed well in their final exams
and, the college achieved more than 95% results in these classes last year. Whereas earlier, due
to lack of building protection, most school children would be absent during the rainy season,
resulting in declining academic performance. They also appreciated honorable local MP for his
effort of providing retaining wall to Girls’ Inter-college.

4.7 Suggestions

Landslides pose a recurrent hazard to human life and livelihood in most parts of the world,
especially in some regions that have experienced rapid population and economic growth .
Hazards are mitigated through precautionary means—for instance, by restricting or even
removing populations from areas with a history of landslides, by restricting certain types of land
use where slope stability is in question, and by installing early warning systems based on the
monitoring of ground conditions such as strain in rocks and soils, slope displacement,
and ground water levels. levels. There are also various direct methods of preventing landslides;
these include modifying slope geometry, using chemical agents to reinforce slope material,
installing structures such as piles and retaining walls, grouting rock joints and fissures, diverting
debris pathways, and rerouting surface and underwater drainage. Such direct methods are
constrained by cost, landslide magnitude and frequency, and the size of human settlements at
risk.

Retaining wall concept is a way to reduce the risk in slopes and develop slope stability for
buildings and other properties. Retaining walls are structures designed to restrain the soil. They
are normally used in areas with steep slopes or where the landscape needs to be shaped severely
for construction or engineering projects.  However, retaining walls have been found to be a very
efficient solution against landslides.

Suggestions:

1) It was good initiation from GAIL India Limited encouraging girls’ children education.
However, it is necessary to know the general public about GAIL efforts. Only “GAIL name” is
on the inauguration plaque, but the implementing agency did not imprint the GAIL logo on the
plaque.
2) The project amount, start date and end date details are mentioned on the plaque, but project
technical details are not available.
3) Monitor regularly: i) Cracks in the wall face, particularly if concrete or the mortared wall has
been used and take the necessary action; ii) Uproot the hedges and vegetations on retaining wall
surface.
4) Many failures associated with retaining walls can be largely attributed to a lack of proper
drainage. As a result, the weight of saturated soils behind the wall pushes against it, causing it to
bow or even pull apart. Dealing with the water causing such events is crucial to securing the
retaining wall’s structural stability and longevity. In addition, soil erosion and the deterioration
of a retaining wall can result from poor or missing drainage or a concentrated water outflow
(such as when the drainage isn’t properly connected to a rainwater system). Finally, rainwater
systems can cause the wall to fail or impact the stability of the slope just below the retaining
wall, destabilizing the support of the wall itself. Therefore, walls should be designed with proper
drainage with rain outlet channels approved by Rain Water Management System. For walls
requiring building permits, drainage must be designed by a Structural or Geotechnical Engineer.

5) Slope geometry is an important factor that affects slope stability. The basic geometrical slope
design parameters are bench height, overall slope angle, and surface area. The stability of the
slope decreases with the increase in its height and slope angle. The curvature of the slope has a
profound effect on instability; therefore, we should avoid convex section slopes in slope design.
Slope stability is dependent on shear strength available along the surface, their orientations
concerning slope and water pressure action on the surface.
Glimpse of Photos