Panna, Madhya Pradesh: In the rural pockets of Panna, where opportunities for women to engage in income generating activities are often limited, the Udaan Skill Development Project, supported by JK Cement and implemented by Lok Kalyan Bhumika Samiti, is creating new pathways for selfreliance and dignity.
Designed with a focus on practical and locally relevant skills, the initiative aims to train 300 women in Stitching and Beauty Parlor trades. The project is being implemented in a phased manner, with each phase spanning six months, ensuring that participants receive adequate time for learning, practice, and skill strengthening. So far, 200 women have successfully completed training across two phases, marking steady progress towards the overall goal.
Training has been conducted through dedicated rural centers, each equipped to provide both trades under the guidance of trained instructors. The learning environment encourages active participation, where women not only acquire technical skills but also build confidence through regular practice and peer interaction.
A key highlight of the project has been the organization of exposure visits, where trainees were introduced to nearby markets and working enterprises. These visits offered valuable insights into customer engagement, service delivery, and basic business understanding— helping participants connect their training with real-world opportunities.
The initiative goes beyond skill development. Through regular Behaviour Change Communication (BCC) sessions, women engage in discussions around health, hygiene, financial awareness, and self-confidence. In addition, the promotion of Poshan Vatika (kitchen gardens) has encouraged families to adopt better nutritional practices, linking livelihoods with overall well-being.
The impact is already visible on the ground. Following the completion of the first phase in July 2025, several women began initiating home-based enterprises. From tailoring services to beauty care for local communities, these small yet significant efforts are enabling them to generate supplementary income and contribute to their household finances.
Beyond income, the transformation is reflected in growing confidence and participation. Women who were once confined to limited roles are now stepping forward, interacting with customers, and taking decisions related to their work and earnings.
The Udaan Skill Development Project stands as a meaningful example of how focused CSR efforts can create lasting change. By combining skill training with awareness, exposure, and community engagement, the initiative is not just building livelihoods—it is fostering confidence, independence, and resilience among women in rural Panna.
