HCCB’s Tailoring Training Program in Thoothukudi stands as a powerful example of sustainable community development. By empowering women with skills, tools, and opportunities, the initiative strengthens families, communities, and the state’s economic progress.
Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu (India CSR): Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB), one of India’s leading FMCG companies, successfully completed the first phase of its Tailoring Training Program for women. The two-month initiative aimed to equip local women with essential tailoring skills for financial independence and entrepreneurial opportunities.
Key Highlights
The culmination event saw the presence of Smt. P. Geetha Jeevan, Hon’ble Minister for Social Welfare and Women Empowerment, Government of Tamil Nadu. Mr. Vijayakumar S, Thoothukudi Corporation Councillor, Muthaihpuram, and HCCB employees also attended the event to celebrate the achievement of over 40 women participants.
Each trainee received a personal sewing machine, ensuring they have both the skills and tools to begin their entrepreneurial journeys or secure work opportunities. The Department of Social Welfare and Women Empowerment supported the program by providing materials and facilitating work orders, giving the participants immediate earning options.
Support from Leaders
P. Geetha Jeevan lauded the initiative, saying, “We are thrilled to witness such collaborative efforts that empower the women of Tamil Nadu. This program is transformative, enabling women to find jobs in garment manufacturing or even start their small tailoring businesses with access to loans.”
HCCB’s Commitment to Women Empowerment
Himanshu Priyadarshi, Chief Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability Officer, HCCB, highlighted the program’s impact. He said, “At HCCB, empowering women is central to building stronger communities. By offering skill development and tools like sewing machines, we are fostering financial independence and inclusivity. Our initiatives support sustainable community development and Tamil Nadu’s progress.”
Building Skills Across Tamil Nad
The tailoring program is part of HCCB’s larger skill development efforts in Tamil Nadu. Earlier this year, HCCB’s Financial and Digital Literacy Program empowered over 3,500 women. The program taught women how to manage finances and use digital tools to enhance their businesses and livelihoods.
In collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Skill Development Corporation (TNSDC), HCCB has trained over 10,500 youth with sales and marketing skills through initiatives like the “Naan Mudhalvan” scheme. These efforts equip young individuals with industry-relevant knowledge to build successful careers.
Enhancing Education and Hygiene
HCCB is also improving educational infrastructure in Tamil Nadu. The company has installed smartboards in schools, boosting digital learning opportunities for students. Additionally, its WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) sessions promote better hygiene practices among school children.
The company’s contributions extend to building schools, Anganwadi centers, libraries, and village information centers. These projects aim to improve community resources and ensure access to education and information.
A Holistic Approach to Community Development
HCCB’s efforts reflect a holistic approach to community empowerment. By combining skill-building initiatives, education, and infrastructure development, the company is creating pathways for financial independence and growth for women, youth, and students in Tamil Nadu.
The Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB)
HCCB was incorporated on 14th February 1997. It serves 25 lakh retailers, 3,500 distributors, and employs 6,000 people. Supported by 250,000 farmers, the company operates 16 factories across India, producing 60 beverages under 7 categories, including popular brands like Coca-Cola, Thums Up, Sprite, Minute Maid, Maaza, and Fanta.
Headquartered in Bangalore, HCCB operates in 22 states, 3 Union Territories, and 376 districts across South, West, and East India.