Mumbai, 16th October 2023: Dalmia Bharat Group, India’s leading conglomerate with businesses in cement and sugar, announces the successful empowerment of 18000 women on International Day of Rural Women. Through the establishment of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), these women are provided essential skill training and access to vital resources for sustainable livelihood development. In collaboration with various organisations like NRLM, NABARD, etc. Dalmia Bharat organizes various training initiatives like micro-enterprise development, handicraft production and others in both farming and non-farming sectors. All these activities are conducted in communities settled around their regions of operation across 12 states in India. These initiatives aim to upskill rural women to empower them, diversify their income sources and provide access to formal credit systems. Through access to credit linkages, many women have built successful micro-enterprises, shops and businesses. They have experienced a boost in their incomes, ranging from Rs 4000 to Rs.10000 monthly, which has significantly improved their individual well-being and the ability to support their families.
One of their notable programs includes upskilling women artisans from different regions in India. In a recent success story, eco–friendly handicraft products made of natural materials like ‘Moonj’ and ‘Sabai’ (types of wild grass) found a proud place of display as part of gift hampers for international delegates at the recently concluded G20 Summit. Dalmia Bharat also focuses on sustainable livelihood development through goat rearing, poultry farming, mushroom cultivation, tailoring and other initiatives. SHG women also undergo training in Entrepreneurship Development focusing on home-based products like spices, pickles etc.
Commenting on the company’s initiatives on International Day of Rural Women, Mr. Ashok K. Gupta, CEO, Dalmia Bharat Foundation said, “Our goal at Dalmia Bharat is to aid marginalized women at grassroots levels, enabling them to secure additional income while balancing their household duties through these comprehensive programs. Our steadfast commitment to empowering rural women aligns with our dedication to achieving the UN Global Sustainable Goals of eradicating poverty, eliminating hunger and advancing gender equality. We firmly believe that by investing in the potential of rural women, we are building an inclusive and sustainable future for India. Our efforts resonate with the essence of Atmanirbhar Bharat, promoting self-reliance and progress throughout the nation.”
International Day of Rural Women, observed annually on 15th October, celebrates the vital role of rural women in agriculture, food security, and rural development. It highlights the need to empower them, address inequalities, and aligns with global goals for gender equality and sustainable development.
