JAMMU (India CSR): In a significant step towards fostering economic self-reliance and skill development, Sun Pharma, India’s largest pharmaceutical company, inaugurated a Sewing Training-Cum-Production Centre in Samba, Jammu on January 6, 2025. This initiative, launched in collaboration with Usha International, aims to empower 25 women from low-income communities by enhancing their sewing and stitching skills. The program is part of Sun Pharma’s broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) vision to drive sustainable community development.
Empowering Women Through Skill Development
The training program provides 25 days of intensive sewing and stitching training, equipping women with essential technical skills to establish their own micro-enterprises. The initiative also includes:
- Guidance on Entrepreneurship: Participants receive mentorship on setting up village-level sewing units.
- Ongoing Support: The women will benefit from continuous skill enhancement sessions, market linkages, and follow-ups to ensure long-term success.
- Micro-Enterprise Development: By encouraging self-reliance, the program aims to create village-level employment and foster economic independence.
This comprehensive approach ensures that participants not only gain technical expertise but also the confidence to become self-sufficient entrepreneurs.
Social Impact and Community Development
The program’s goal extends beyond economic empowerment. By enhancing the socio-economic status of the women involved, the initiative is expected to:
- Improve access to education and healthcare for their families.
- Strengthen the local economy through the establishment of small businesses.
- Foster gender equality by empowering women to become financial contributors within their households.
Inauguration Ceremony and Leadership Remarks
The launch event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Chander Prakash Ganga, MLA of Vijaypur Constituency, Dr. Arun Manhas (JKAS), Director of Industries and Commerce, Jammu, and Miss Parul Khajuria, Block Development Officer, Block Baribrahmna. They praised Sun Pharma’s efforts in promoting women’s empowerment and skill development.
Speaking at the event, Chandrashekhar Gowda, AVP and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Sun Pharma, highlighted the company’s commitment:
“At Sun Pharma, we are deeply committed to promoting social change and economic self-reliance. By equipping women with essential skills and opportunities, we aim to foster resilience, economic independence, and greater gender equality. We will continue working closely with the local administration to ensure the program’s success.”
Partnership with Usha International
The initiative is part of the Usha Silai School Program, a long-standing project by Usha International that focuses on creating sewing and stitching hubs in rural areas. Through this collaboration, Sun Pharma emphasizes its dedication to fostering community-driven growth and sustainable skill-building.
Expanding Outreach: Program in Gujarat
In addition to the program in Jammu, Sun Pharma is running a similar initiative for 25 women in Panoli, Gujarat, reinforcing its commitment to promoting women’s empowerment across multiple regions.
Key Facts Table:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Program | Sewing Training-Cum-Production Centre |
| Location | Samba, Jammu |
| Number of Beneficiaries | 25 women in Jammu (also 25 women in Panoli, Gujarat) |
| Training Duration | 25 days |
| Key Partner | Usha International (Usha Silai School Program) |
| Key Focus Areas | Skill development, entrepreneurship, women empowerment |
| Long-Term Goal | Economic self-reliance and community upliftment |
Commitment to Holistic Community Development
Sun Pharma’s CSR strategy aims to create a lasting social impact by addressing key developmental challenges. By focusing on skill-building, healthcare, and education, the company continues to work towards fostering inclusive growth. This sewing training initiative is a testament to its commitment to empowering women and strengthening underserved communities.
You Learn
Sun Pharma’s Sewing Training-Cum-Production Centre in Jammu is a powerful example of how CSR initiatives can transform lives through skill development and economic empowerment. By collaborating with Usha International and working closely with local authorities, Sun Pharma is not only creating opportunities for financial independence but also promoting gender equality and social upliftment. With plans to expand the initiative, the company continues to play a pivotal role in driving sustainable change in underserved communities.
(India CSR)
