Empowering Women: NHAI and Vertis Foundation's 'Project Saksham'

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has joined forces with the Vertis Foundation to launch 'Project Saksham', an ambitious initiative aimed at empowering rural women through targeted skill development programs. The initiative, endorsed by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, seeks to foster inclusive development by providing industry-specific training and creating avenues for financial independence and social empowerment for communities living adjacent to national highways.

The details of 'Project Saksham' reveal its expansive reach, with 12 operational training centers across the nation. To date, it has equipped over 6,000 youth with valuable skills, resulting in more than 4,000 placements in diverse sectors. Impressively, over 80% of the participants are women, who are now earning between Rs 13,000 and Rs 16,000 a month. This initiative is part of NHAI's broader vision of blending infrastructure growth with social inclusivity, ensuring that economic opportunities extend to rural women affected by highway projects.

Implemented through dedicated on-ground engagement, the project addresses socio-cultural barriers while promoting skill development and employment opportunities. Training encompasses vocational skills such as electrical work, plumbing, appliance repair, tailoring, general duty assistant nursing, and multi-skill technician training. By improving employability and financial independence, the project embodies NHAI's commitment to infrastructure development that enhances connectivity and fosters community growth.

(With inputs from agencies.)