GIFT THE GIFT OF EDUCATION TO AN UNDER-SERVED GIRL

Youth and women in our society are in immense need of livelihood opportunities, however most often they are not found capable to acquire a required skill for the same, hence limits their decisions.

The Karigari Program lays the foundation by providing basic-level training to women, helping them acquire essential skills such as stitching, tailoring, and introductory craft techniques. This foundational training prepares them for entry-level opportunities while fostering confidence and discipline.

Once these women achieve baseline proficiency, Indha serves as the next stage of their journey, transitioning them into more advanced skill development and production-focused training. At Indha, artisans learn market-driven skills that elevate their craftsmanship to meet contemporary design and quality standards. This transition bridges the gap between basic training and high-demand, income-generating skills, empowering women to produce sophisticated, marketable products for corporate gifting, fashion, and sustainable collections.

By combining the structured training of Karigari with the real-world, demand-oriented upskilling at Indha, we create a seamless pathway for artisans to move from foundational learning to sustainable livelihoods and independent entrepreneurship

The opportunities created in the following manner:

• Step 1: Conducted survey of the area and identified beneficiaries
• Step 2: Assessed the skills/ training that would benefit them most
• Step 3: Set up and installation of equipment and machines
• Step 4: Invited beneficiaries for an orientation session
• Step 5: Regular ongoing training till completion of the program as per the module
• Step 6: Workshop on business development and motivational sessions
• Step 7:Support to set up business models and provide ongoing support to sustain the business
• Step 8: Assistance for Job placement and On job Training with Indha Social enterprise

 Indha as a Training Incubator

• Hands-On Training: Indha will serve as a live training platform where artisans gain real-world experience while working on production orders. This ensures immediate learning while contributing to revenue generation.
• Collaboration with Karigari Program: Indha will work alongside the Karigari program to provide foundational and advanced skills, bridging the gap between basic training and market-ready expertise.

Outcome

• Women and youth received basic and advanced skills training through the Karigari and Indha programs, which built their confidence and prepared them for the workforce.
• Participants transitioned from foundational training to production experience, improving their craftsmanship to meet contemporary market demands.
•  Many beneficiaries either started their small businesses or secured job placements with Indha and other social enterprises.
•  Business development workshops, motivational sessions, and continuous support enabled participants to develop sustainable business models.
•  The initiative successfully created a pathway to financial independence, empowering women and youth to become self-employed and workforce ready
• Marketplace to showcase the Artisanship

  Empowered Through Art: The Journey of Samhita Bhattacharjee( Name Changed)

     A Story of Courage, Determination, and Self-Belief

Introduction
For many women, reclaiming their identity and pursuing their passion takes immense courage—especially when faced with traditional expectations. Samhita Bhattacharjee( Name Changed), a 46-year-old woman from a modest background, turned her quiet strength into a brushstroke of change. Her journey with Literacy India is a shining example of how age is never a barrier and that it’s never too late to begin anew.

Background
Raised in a conventional household by her parents, the late Samir( Name changed) and Arati Chakraborty( Name Changed), Samhita completed her 12th-grade education. She lives with her husband, Soumen Bhattacharjee( Name Changed) who works in the service sector, earning a modest salary of 20,000 per month.

Her life, for the most part, was shaped by the expectations of her in-laws, who discouraged her from stepping out or working independently. For years, she remained within the walls of domestic life, setting aside her own aspirations.

Turning Point
In 2022, Samhita took her first step toward change by joining Literacy India’s Accessories Making course. Though she didn’t pursue work in that field initially, the learning experience sparked something in her—a curiosity, a hope.

By 2024, she discovered a deeper passion: drawing and painting. Encouraged by the welcoming environment at Literacy India, she enrolled in painting classes. It wasn’t easy. Her in-laws resisted her decision to go outside for training. But Samhita stood her ground, and with patience and perseverance, she won their support.

Transformation
Samhita’s quiet rebellion turned into a personal revolution. As her skills grew, she became an Indha Artisan, creating beautiful hand-painted products that now fetch her a monthly income of 2,000–3,000, which is just the beginning.

Her first earnings gave her something beyond money—it gave her confidence. She began to see herself not just as a homemaker, but as a creator, an artisan, and a contributor to her household.

Looking Ahead
Today, Samhita balances her home responsibilities while continuing to nurture her art. Her journey is far from over, but she walks it with her head held high.

Samhita’s story reminds us that empowerment doesn’t always come with loud declarations—it can begin with a brush, a canvas, and a quiet decision to follow one’s heart. With support, persistence, and belief, even a small beginning can lead to a powerful transformation.

Links:

• Annual Report 2024