KOLKATA (India CSR): Castrol India Limited, in association with Smile Foundation, has unveiled its first Ujjwal Kal CSR skilling centre in Kolkata. Located at the Smile Foundation STeP Centre in Santoshpur, the centre will equip young adults from economically disadvantaged communities with industry-relevant skills and stronger pathways to employment and sustainable livelihoods.
Skills For Employment
The centre will provide training in digital technologies, artificial intelligence, retail, and beauty and wellness, along with communication, workplace-readiness and digital-literacy skills. Learners will receive recognised certificates and placement assistance, combining practical learning with support for entering the workforce. The initiative seeks to make future-oriented skills more accessible to young people who may otherwise face limited opportunities for formal training and employment.
Confidence Meets Opportunity
“Talent is universal, but access to opportunity is not,” said Saugata Basuray, Managing Director, Castrol India Limited. Through Ujjwal Kal, Castrol India aims to bridge this gap by building the skills, confidence and support systems that enable young people to shape better futures for themselves and their families. Launched in 2021, the flagship CSR programme focuses on youth upskilling, women empowerment and community development.
Women Lead Change
In 2025, Ujjwal Kal initiatives across education, upskilling and healthcare benefited close to 5,000 individuals. The programme primarily supports people aged 18–28, with young women accounting for nearly 85% of participants. Castrol India aims for 50–55% of programme graduates to secure direct employment or pursue self-employment, strengthening both individual livelihoods and community resilience.
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