IEPFA hosts Niveshak Mashal half marathon to raise awareness about financial literacy

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 4,500 individuals, including students from more than 45 schools and members of the local community.

The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), in collaboration with the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) and Pardada Pardadi Educational Society (PPES), organized the annual "Niveshak Mashal" half marathon to raise awareness about financial literacy at the PPES Campus in Anupshahr, Uttar Pradesh, on September 8, 2024.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 4,500 individuals, including students from more than 45 schools and members of the local community. Multiple race categories — Half Marathon, 10 km, and 5 km — ensured an inclusive atmosphere where participants from all walks of life united to promote the importance of financial education.

Flagging off the marathon, Ms. Anita Shah Akella, CEO of IEPFA and Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), emphasized the significance of IEPFA’s ongoing efforts to promote financial literacy across diverse communities. The initiative aims to foster a culture of informed financial decision-making throughout India.

In conjunction with the marathon, IEPFA also hosted an Investor Education and Protection Conference on September 7, 2024, titled ‘Role of Financial Education in Promoting Investor Awareness and Protection.’ The conference, held at the Pardada Pardadi Education Society Campus, was moderated by Dr. C.S. Mohapatra, IEPF Chair Professor at NCAER, and featured prominent speakers such as Ms. Samiksha Lamba, Deputy General Manager, IEPFA; Mr. R.P. Singh, Assistant General Manager, SBI; CA Tushar Verma of Verma Tushar & Co.; Dr. Rahul Kumar, Assistant Professor at Jaypee University; and Mr. Paras Gaur, Chartered Financial Analyst and Deputy Registrar at Jaypee University.

Discussions at the conference focused on the vital role of financial education in rural and semi-urban areas, the challenges of reaching underserved populations, and strategies to enhance financial literacy across the country. Speakers highlighted how financial literacy is key to building a more informed investor base, contributing to both investor protection and economic empowerment.

These events were part of IEPFA’s 8th Foundation Day celebrations and exemplify its continued dedication to ensuring financial awareness and investor protection at all levels of society.