TLDR: Hyundai Motor India Foundation inaugurated Phase II of its IONIQ Forest project, transforming barren land into a biodiverse green zone and empowering tribal communities through sustainable agriculture and financial literacy.
Hyundai Motor India Foundation (HMIF), the CSR arm of Hyundai Motor India, inaugurated the second phase of its flagship sustainability initiative, Hyundai IONIQ Forest, at SIPCOT Irungattukottai. This development marks a significant milestone in Hyundai’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and inclusive growth, in line with its global vision of Progress for Humanity.
Mr. Gopalakrishnan C S & Mr. Saravanan T, Trustees of HMIF along with Mr Jeongick Lee, Function Head- Corporate Affairs and Mr Puneet Anand, Vertical head, Corporate Affairs and Corporate Communication & Social inaugurated the project.
The newly transformed site under IONIQ Forest converts 12.16 acres of previously barren Open Space Reservation (OSR) land into a vibrant green zone with over 5,500 trees representing 28 native species. Located near Chembarambakkam Lake, the forest now supports rich biodiversity, attracts native bird species, and functions as a mini bird sanctuary and a living classroom for environmental education.
The initiative also integrates livelihood development with ecological restoration by employing 15 tribal families through the Kurunji Natru Pannai Self-Help Group (SHG). With an investment of INR 1.54 crore, HMIF has introduced intercropping techniques and aims to produce 11 lakh saplings, including vegetables, cattle fodder, fruits and native trees by October 2027, thereby promoting food security and sustainable agriculture.
Commenting on the inauguration, Mr. Gopalakrishnan C S, Trustee, HMIF, said, “IONIQ Forest is more than just a green initiative for Hyundai Motor India Foundation. It is a living, breathing example of how sustainability and community empowerment go hand in hand. Through IONIQ Forest, we are not only expanding our environmental footprint but also creating a dynamic space that educates, engages and uplifts. By integrating tribal livelihoods, biodiversity conservation, financial literacy and public engagement, we are building a model that nurtures both people and the planet. It is one that can be scaled and sustained across regions.”
To further support tribal communities, HMIF is driving economic inclusion by helping families open bank accounts, access essential services and build financial awareness through literacy programs. The income generated from farm produce empowers these families, while ensuring secure and formal management of earnings. Over the past four years, these communities have actively contributed to sustainable forest upkeep and agro-based cultivation, reinforcing both ecological and social advancement.
The revitalized forest site now features landscaped pathways, rejuvenated ponds, a village model hut, gardens and community spaces. The Hyundai IONIQ Forest is now open to schools and local communities for educational tours and awareness sessions.
Scaling the Model Across Andhra Pradesh
Building on the success in Tamil Nadu, HMIF has replicated the IONIQ Forest model across Nandyal and Kurnool districts in Andhra Pradesh, empowering 290 tribal and marginalized families through sustainable agroforestry. With 600 acres currently under ecological restoration and livelihood support, this initiative showcases a scalable and replicable model for environmental and social impact. HMIF plans to extend this initiative to additional regions in the future.
