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Indha Project

Empowering Women Through Skills and Sustainability

Programs Overview

Overview

Project INDHA, launched in 2005 as an evolution of our earlier initiative Project Karigari, focuses on skill development and provides a platform for women trained under Literacy India to refine their talents. Each year, new women are inducted for upskilling, helping them meet market standards. Many graduates of INDHA move on to become entrepreneurs or join industries, contributing significantly to their communities. Transitioning from basic sewing machines to advanced industrial Jukki machines has improved productivity, enabling women to excel in traditionally male-dominated fields.

The Innovative ICE Model

Job-specific courses include:

  • Investing, Capacitating, and Enablement (ICE) forms the backbone of INDHA. Through this model, artisans receive the tools, vision, and market access necessary for success. Enhanced needlework designs featuring modern and traditional motifs have uplifted rural artisans in West Bengal, while sustainable innovations like transforming cotton waste into Boho products have gained consumer appeal.
  • Waste Paper Recycling Plant: INDHA’s in-house recycling unit aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) 2030. The plant converts discarded paper into premium stationery and art materials. Corporate workshops on paper-making spread awareness about recycling and its significance.
    Upcycled Creations: Waste wood from packaging is transformed into hand-painted wall décor and premium paper products, supported by solar energy at Literacy India’s campus. This initiative showcases creativity and environmental responsibility.
  • INDHA empowers women to discover their potential and achieve financial independence. Training programs go beyond artisan skills to include financial literacy, enabling women to manage their earnings effectively. This holistic approach fosters economic independence, celebrates India’s rich heritage, and promotes sustainable livelihoods.

Graduates are placed in:

  • Productivity: Women specialize in crafting school bags, uniforms, stationery, corporate gifts, and online/offline products.
  • Outreach: Approximately 1,000 children participate in educational sessions, with 100,000 individuals reached through awareness campaigns on recycled paper.
  • Economic Empowerment: Over 250 women have crafted more than 2.5 lakh products, providing vital income and support for their families.
  • Skill development programs in Kolkata, Purulia, Barmasia, Bhati Mines, Chhawla, Gupta Colony, Mullahera, and Bijwasan prepare artisans for market-ready production. The “Earn While Learning” model transforms aspirations into sustainable livelihoods.
  • Women’s Rights and Health: Counselling sessions cover topics like menstrual health, hygiene, and gender rights.
  • Entrepreneurial Support: Expert trainers help women establish successful boutiques and enterprises.
  • By linking gender empowerment with child development, INDHA creates a ripple effect of positive change, benefiting entire communities. Empowering women isn’t just our mission—it’s our passion.

Highlights