In India, the tribal population is more than 10 crore and is larger than that of any other country in the world. However, despite the protection given to the tribal population, it remains the most marginalised group in the country, on the three most important indicators of development- health, education and income. With an aim to improve the status of the marignalised tribal communities, the USHA Silai School Progamme launched the 'Tribal Exclusive Usha Silai School Project'. The objective of the initiative is to support tribal women, by helping them earn a better income.
USHA International Limited has partnered with the Tribal Development Council (TDC) in Nicobar, the southernmost part of India. Ten new USHA Classical Silai Schools have been opened in Nancowry, in Nicobar District and trainings were organised from November 29 till December 7 at the Community Hall in Kamorta. The women entrepreneurs in Nicobar, who were selected from different villages, belong to poor tribal communities.
Kushalta Ke Kadam, an initiative by USHA Silai School and NDTV has entered its eighth season. The aim is to empower more women across rural India by teaching them sewing skills and helping them open new doors of opportunities for themselves. The initiative encourages rural women to become financially independent and entrepreneurs by taking up sewing and training others in their respective communities.
Since 2011, the USHA Silai School initiative has trained more than 12 lakh rural women through over 33,000 Silai schools, spanning over 20,751 villages across India.
The women earn Rs. 4,000 – 5,000 per month on an average, with the highest recorded monthly earning being Rs. 84,000 in a month. This earning works as a catalyst towards building their self-confidence, reducing gender inequities, and raising their stature within their families and in society at large.
Since 2011, the Usha Silai School initiative has trained over 14 lakh rural women through 36,000 schools across India, with 108 partner NGOs nationwide
Empowering Rural Women: How Usha Silai Schools are transforming communities and NGOs
Usha Silai Schools transform lives by providing marginalized women with skills, confidence, and independence
After losing her husband, Jyoti Rani fought all odds, learned sewing, and built a new life for her family
From immobility to independence, Sakuben Ahir's journey showcases resilience. Through Usha Silai School, she empowered herself and uplifted her community
From stitching in villages to gracing India Style Fashion Week, USHA Silai School women showcase grit and creativity, turning challenges into triumphs as designers on prestigious global platforms