As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives for sustainable livelihood and economic empowerment, SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) has launched a Vocational Skill Development Training programme in Applique Sewing Technique for women from peripheral communities. The training commenced on May 6, 2025, at the Institute for Peripheral Development in Sector-20, Rourkela.
Mr. T. G. Kanekar, Chief General Manager (Town Services & CSR) presided over the inaugural session. Also present on the occasion were Ms. Munmun Mittra, GM In-charge (CSR), Mr. T. B. Toppo, AGM (CSR), along with other officers and staff of the Department.
A total of 10 women from Baniguni Model Steel Village, Jhirpani Resettlement Colony, Purnaani peripheral village, and nearby industrial slums have enrolled in the 60 working day training programme.
The initiative is aimed at enabling these women to earn supplementary income for their families, access government schemes for loans, subsidies, and insurance, and receive artisan certification to enhance long-term earning potential. A unique aspect of the programme is its focus on enabling trainees to evolve into future trainers themselves, thereby multiplying the impact within their communities.
The training is being conducted by award-winning master trainer Mr. Krushna Chandra Mohanty, assisted by Ms. Shraddhanjali Mohanty. The programme is being coordinated by Ms. Richa Suddhiram, Manager (CSR), and is being implemented at a project cost of Rs, 2,04,500.
The programme is designed to provide comprehensive skill development in applique sewing. This would cover basic hand stitching, design tracing, and cutting techniques, progressing to both traditional and modern applique methods, fabric coordination and product creation. Participants will also be taught to make a range of items such as handkerchiefs, cushion covers, Bed covers, wall hangings, saree borders, tote bags and more. The course also includes training on quality control, entrepreneurship, costing, branding, and market linkage to make the women self reliant.
