The New Nation - Internet Edition

Holcim, the leading cement manufacturer of the country, has recently paid compensation of Tk. 50,000/- to one injured mason namely Nurul Islam, of Rajshahi. As part of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Holcim had taken an initiative to provide insurance coverage for masons in 2003. Since then about 4,000 masons from all over the country have been brought under this insurance programme. Holcim had made this insurance arrangement with Pragati Insurance Ltd, the leading insurance company of the country and paid full premium for the coverage of 4,000 masons. Under this insurance programme if any mason (i.e. enlisted under this programme) falls any accident and/or expires during construction work, the insurance holder will receive compensation of Tk 25,000-Tk 50,000 through fulfilling certain conditions.

Mason Nurul I slam got injured while he was performing construction work.

Jashim Uddin Khandaker, GM--Customer Care of Holcim Bangladesh Ltd, handed over the cheque to Mrs Meherun, wife of Nurul Islam at an event held at Bogra.

Besides insurance programme, Holcim offers scholarships for mason's children, imparts training on construction work. Speaing on the occasion, a high official of Holcim said, "Masons are the key workers at construction sites, but they have long been considered as downtrodden section of the society, despite their large contribution towards the development of the country in general and construction in particular. Realising this reality, Holcim has come forward to extend all possible supports towards the improvement of this segment of the society."

About 200 dealers, retailers and masons attended this event. Among others, Alhaj Shahidullh Shelu of M/s Asadullah and Brothers, premium dealer from North Bengal, and Saiful Islam of M/s Saiful Traders were present at the time of handing over the compensation. Besides, Saraj Kumar Barua, Sr Executive--Customer Care, was present at the event.