Empowering rural women with skill training
In a bid to promote women’s empowerment and self-reliance, NTPC-Koldam, in collaboration with NSIC-Mandi, has successfully concluded a six-month “Dress Making” training programme for women in the rural areas of Mandi district. The initiative culminated in a grand ceremony where 25 women from the remote village of Batwara were awarded sewing machines, tailoring kits and certificates, equipping them with the tools to become self-employed and contribute to their family’s income.
The training, conducted by NSIC-Mandi and supported by NTPC-Koldam, provided comprehensive instruction in designing and stitching children’s and women’s garments. The final showcase featured an exhibition of garments created by the trainees, earning praise from senior officials. NTPC-Koldam senior manager Anjula Agarwal lauded the women’s craftsmanship and highlighted the initiative as a meaningful step toward financial independence.
NSIC chief manager Pradeep Kumar encouraged the women to explore micro-business opportunities, assuring them of continued support from the NSIC. The distribution of sewing machines and kits was a significant step in ensuring they could immediately begin work from home.
According to NSIC manager Lokesh Bhatia, many women had already started earning during the training, boosting their confidence and financial stability. He emphasized that the quality of training, led by instructor Priyanka, was highly appreciated by participants for its practicality and effectiveness.
“In addition to the success of this program, NTPC Koldam’s ongoing community development initiatives with NSIC Mandi continue to uplift villages impacted by the Koldam project,” Bhatia stated. “This tailoring initiative is just one of the many efforts aimed at helping women achieve self-reliance and economic independence.”
This initiative stands as a testament to the power of skill development in transforming rural lives, ensuring long-term positive change for women and their families.