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.
Empowering women across diverse backgrounds, the Usha Silai School programme not only offers sewing and stitching skills but also fosters inclusivity and economic independence. A recent independent study by IIT Delhi highlights its profound impact, showcasing how this initiative not only transforms individual lives but also contributes significantly to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Take a look!
The Indian Armed Forces have always been at the forefront when it comes to safeguarding the nation's security. Members of the Armed forces have dedicated their lives to the service of the people in more ways than one. Along with protecting the nation, the Indian Armed Forces are building empowered communities across the country. Let's take a glimpse into the collaboration between Usha Silai Schools and various centers, aimed at supporting Army wives and family members with skill development and vocational training.
India's traditional sports like Adimurai, Mardani Khel, and Karra Samu and Kathi Samu, are now making a comeback, thanks to Usha. Here is how Usha is promoting a healthy and active lifestyle while strengthening the community's legacy tied to these sports, with the active participation of Usha Silai School women.
Women who may have limited access to traditional educational resources are now using smartphones to learn the art of sewing through Usha Silai Mobile App. The women are making the best use of platforms like Google Meet, Zoom and WhatsApp to discuss sewing content and community issues. Take a look!
From reintroducing ancient martial art forms like "Gatka" in Haryana to organising community games such as "Turai Kar" in Kashmir, USHA is not only promoting physical well-being but also reconnecting communities across India with their forgotten traditional sports. Take a look!
From North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO) to Rourkela Steel Plant, the Usha Silai School Programme has collaborated with many government institutions and entities which has proven to be immensely significant in impacting the lives of rural women positively in many parts of India. Take a look.
From Shilpi Das to Mansoora Banoo, Usha Silai Schools are fostering financial independence among women, transforming them into self-reliant entrepreneurs. Take a look.
In the past 12 years, over 33,000 Silai Schools have been opened. Some of the Silai School women have shown unmatched resilience and will to transform their lives. They have come a long way in the Silai School journey and are now looked up to as role models by other girls and women in their communities. Let's meet some of them.
On one hand, Usha Silai School has collaborated with Meghalaya State Rural Livelihoods Society (MSRLS) to provide women with employment opportunities while also promoting environmental conservation, on the other hand, it has partnered with the Blind People's Association in Ahmedabad to upskill women with disabilities.