In the heart of India, a powerful movement is taking shape, driven by ambition, skill, and partnership. USHA International Ltd., a trusted name in Indian households, is joining hands with Godavari Power & Ispat Ltd. (GPIL), a leading steel manufacturer, to empower women and transform their communities.
Recognizing the importance of sustainable development, GPIL sought out USHA International as a partner to uplift women through skill development in a rural area of Raipur.
Yogita Rawat, AGM of CSR at GPIL, highlights the organization's commitment,
"This area is quite backward in many ways. Being an aware & responsible organization, we thought about how we could empower women from rural areas. With that thought, our CSR division came up with the idea of a project for women."
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In 2023, this vision became reality with the establishment of a Training Cum Production Centre, where women are equipped with essential sewing and stitching skills.
Alok Tripathi, Programme Coordinator at USHA Social Services, explains the collaboration,
"USHA leads the way in partnering with like-minded organizations, corporates, and other entities like us. That is why we have established a production centre here in Raipur, which is run by USHA and Godavari Power and Ispat Limited."
At this centre, expert trainers guide eager learners through the intricacies of tailoring, creating an environment bustling with activity and creativity.
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Trainer Gayatri Verma shares her experience, stating,
"When I came here, the first batch was already there. I always prepare before coming here about what I will teach today."
The training centre serves as a hub of empowerment, allowing women who were once confined to their homes to envision brighter futures.
Karimunisha, a trainee, expresses her excitement about her newfound skills,
"I used to sew at home with my own understanding of measurements. After coming here, I see that the measurement is done differently. If I get an order from somewhere, I can stitch it and complete the order."
Over 20 women from surrounding villages receive comprehensive training for 25 days, learning technical skills and gaining confidence and financial independence. Many of these women have started earning by offering their services, making garments, or launching small businesses. The ripple effect of this skill-building initiative has the potential to uplift entire families.
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Roshni Taam, another trainee, shares her success story,
"I used to sew at home, and I could barely earn Rs 3,000-4,000. But going there to give training has doubled my income. Now, I earn around Rs 12,000."
For GPIL, this partnership extends beyond corporate social responsibility.
Yogita Rawat emphasizes the organization's goal,
"We felt that there's scope for improvement in these women's skills. With the help of USHA and our partner NGO, Waste to Best Welfare Society, we will accomplish the goal that we have fixed for the women."
As they rally behind the cause of women's empowerment, USHA International and Godavari Power & Ispat Ltd. illuminate the path toward a more inclusive future. This journey has just begun, and with each step, they come closer to realizing a society where every woman can achieve her dreams.
By partnering with USHA Silai Schools, organizations can contribute to a high-impact CSR initiative. USHA's well-established model ensures that contributions translate directly into tangible skills and economic independence for women, complete with measurable results and transparent reporting.
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