Ariyalur, 22nd July 2024: Reaffirming its dedication to empowering youth and promoting sustainable livelihoods in the region, Dalmia Bharat Foundation (DBF), the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of Dalmia Bharat Ltd. (DBL), India’s leading cement manufacturer, inaugurated its DIKSHa (Dalmia Institute of Knowledge and Skill Harnessing) center in Ariyalur today. Following the success of the Trichy centre, this facility will provide skill development training to 240 youth annually from the surrounding areas. This center will offer specialized training in three critical trades: Home Health Aide, Assistant Electrician and Customer Relationship Management. The in-house facility is equipped to train 30 individuals each in the Electrician and Home Health Aid trades. Training for the Customer Relationship Management trade will be conducted via the innovative World on Wheels (WOW) initiative, a solar-powered digital learning lab that enhances digital literacy and e-education in rural areas. These IT-equipped vehicles bring essential services and training directly to the community.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. T Robert, Unit Head, Dalmia Cement Bharat, Ariyalur shared, “Dalmia Bharat has a long-standing relationship in the region, continuously striving to further sustainable growth within the local communities. This milestone marks a significant step forward in our mission to enhance skill development and promote sustainable livelihoods for rural youth. By providing comprehensive, hands-on training and practical workshops this centre will significantly improve the employability and entrepreneurial prospects of the local youth while driving economic progress in the region. We extend our gratitude to NABARD for their vital support in making this initiative a success.”

“Empowering youth with essential skills is key to unlocking their potential and building successful careers. We are pleased to partner with Dalmia Bharat Foundation in this endeavor, which will pave the way for brighter futures in our rural communities.” shared Mr. R. Anand, Chief General Manager, NABARD.

The DIKSHa centre was inaugurated by Mr. R. Anand, Chief General Manager of NABARD, who graced the event as the Chief guest. The event also featured several distinguished guests, including Mr. Prabakaran, District Development Manager of NABARD; Mr. M. Selvam, Assistant Director of the District Skill Training Office; and Mr. S. Ravichandran, Director of RSETI. Key internal participants included Mr. T. Robert, Plant Head of Ariyalur, Mr. Shankarappa, Technical Head, Mr. Satish Kumar, HR Head along with other notable officials from Dalmia Cement.

DIKSHa currently operates 20 centers nationwide offering training in diverse fields, including healthcare, industrial sewing machine operation, data entry operator, solar PV installation among few. To date, over 16,000 individuals were trained in DIKSHa centers, with 75% securing employment or starting their own businesses. Notably, more than 50% of the trainees are women, reflecting a strong focus on female empowerment and gender equality.

About Dalmia Bharat Foundation:

Dalmia Bharat Foundation focuses on building Sustainable Livelihoods and ensure Rural Development in its program areas. These programs combine in-depth, long-term plans and strategies along with medium- and short-term initiatives and campaigns. Owing to the great differences across locations, DBF has adopted a flexible, multi-intervention approach that allows programs and people to grow together and sustain each other. The two focus areas have been derived from the felt needs of the community and issues material to the business. Visit us at http://www.dalmiabharatfoundation.org.

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