Dalmia Bharat celebrates empowerment of 18000 women on International Day of Rural Women

New Delhi, October 16, 2023. On the occasion of International Day of Rural Women, Dalmia Bharat Group, one of India’s leading cement and sugar conglomerates, celebrated the successful empowerment of 18000 women under their social initiatives. These women have been provided with essential skill training and access to vital resources for sustainable livelihood development through the establishment of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in collaboration with various organisations like NRLM, NABARD, etc.

Dalmia Bharat organises various training initiatives like micro-enterprise development, handicraft production, etc 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, 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 hungerand 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 October 15th, 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.