Kolkata | October 1, 2026: Castrol India Limited, in association with Smile Foundation, has launched its first Ujjwal Kal skilling centre in Kolkata to provide industry-relevant training to young adults from economically disadvantaged communities and connect them with employment and livelihood opportunities.

Located at the Smile Foundation STeP Centre in Santoshpur, the new centre will offer training in digital technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI), retail, and beauty and wellness. The programme will also cover communication, communication readiness and digital literacy. Learners will receive recognised certificates and placement assistance upon completion of the training.

Ujjwal Kal is Castrol India’s flagship CSR programme focused on livelihoods through youth upskilling, women’s empowerment and community development. Launched in 2021, the programme has a particular focus on improving access to opportunities for young women and underserved communities.

Mr. Saugata Basuray, Managing Director, Castrol India Limited, said, “Castrol India has always believed that talent is universal, but access to opportunity is not. Through Ujjwal Kal, we are working to bridge that gap by giving youth the skills, confidence, and support to build better futures for themselves and their families. The launch of our first skilling center in Kolkata is an important step in that journey, particularly in creating greater opportunities for young women. As the world of work continues to evolve, enabling young adults to participate meaningfully in it can create an impact that goes well beyond the individual.”

In 2025, Ujjwal Kal initiatives across education, upskilling and healthcare benefited close to 5,000 individuals. The programme primarily targets people aged 18–28, with young women currently accounting for nearly 85% of participants.

The programme aims for 50–55% of its graduates to secure direct employment or pursue self-employment opportunities. The Kolkata centre is expected to add to these efforts by providing skills training and placement support to young adults in the city.