SSDC12 – Banjbagad, Nanda Nagar, Chamoli

In the remote village of Banjhbagad, Nanda Nagar, Chamoli, Uttarakhand, women faced significant challenges in accessing vocational training and basic stitching services. With the nearest facilities located nearly five kilometers away, opportunities to acquire practical skills, achieve financial independence, and participate in income-generating activities remained limited. The community needed a local platform that could promote women empowerment through accessible skill development and sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Responding to this community need, the Samoon Foundation established SSDC-12 (Samoon Skill Development Centre-12) in Banjhbagad, Nanda Nagar, Chamoli, which was inaugurated on 07 April 2025. Under the leadership of Centre Trainer Ms. Gudiya Devi and Programme Coordinator Mrs. Darshani Devi, President of the local Mahila Mangal Dal, the centre provided practical skill-based training in sewing and traditional handicrafts to support women’s livelihoods. The initiative was further strengthened by the vision and support of Mr. Lakshman Rawat, a differently-abled entrepreneur and long-time beneficiary of the Foundation, whose efforts played a vital role in bringing the centre to the village. The training programme was successfully completed on 11 July 2025, marking another meaningful step towards empowering rural women through skill development.

The programme successfully benefited 30 women, providing them with practical skills in sewing and handicrafts while strengthening their confidence and economic independence. By eliminating the need to travel long distances for training, the centre made vocational education more accessible and encouraged women to explore self-employment and other sustainable livelihood opportunities.

With the successful completion of SSDC-12, Samoon Foundation concluded another impactful initiative dedicated to promoting women empowerment and sustainable livelihoods in rural Chamoli. By equipping 30 women with practical vocational skills and enhancing their confidence, the programme created lasting opportunities for self-reliance and economic participation. The initiative reflects the Foundation’s continued commitment to strengthening rural communities through accessible skill development and livelihood generation.