17th July 2025: Honda India Foundation (HIF), the corporate social responsibility arm of all Honda group of companies in India, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Directorate of Craftsmanship Training & Scheme (DCTSE), Skill Development Department (SDD), and Government of Sikkim. The MoU marks the launch of Project Buniyaad in Sikkim under the World Bank-supported Sikkim INSPIRES Program. The signing ceremony was held at Chintan Bhawan, Gangtok, in the presence of Mr. Prem Singh Tamang, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim and the Minister-in-Charge, SDD, Shri Samdup Bhutia,
Additional Secretary-cum-Director, Directorate of Craftmanship Training, Scheme and Employment (DCTSE), Skill Development Department, and Mr. Rajeev Taneja, Operating Officer, Honda India Foundation.
This collaborative effort aims to deliver structured, industry-oriented training in the hospitality sector, certifications by recognized agencies and assured placement opportunities for youth. The initiative is designed to drive sustainable livelihood opportunities through skill-based learning. As Sikkim celebrated 50 years of statehood, the signing of this MoU also adds to the significance of this year’s World Youth Skills Day celebration, reinforcing the role of partnerships in building a future-ready and skilled workforce for long-term development.
Launched in 2024, Project Buniyaad aims to empower youth, particularly from National Priority Regions (NPR) like the Northeast and Jammu & Kashmir, by providing high-quality hospitality training. This initiative addresses regional challenges, enhances employability, and fosters sustainable livelihoods, contributing to inclusive growth and economic development. The launch of Project Buniyaad in Sikkim adds to its growing footprint and further highlights HIF’s continued focus on creating inclusive impact through skill-based interventions in partnerships with state governments.
Honda India Foundation remains committed to expanding the reach of similar initiatives, with a continued focus on skill development, road safety, environment protection, education, rural development & healthcare.