The Business Bytes
Bhubaneswar, December 11, 2024 (TBB Bureau): Vedanta Aluminium, India’s leading aluminium producer, has taken a significant step toward empowering underprivileged youth by setting up the ‘VeDakshata’ Skills Training Centre at Bileimunda village in Sundargarh district. This initiative is poised to transform the socio-economic landscape of the region by offering placement-linked training programs tailored to meet industry demands.
The state-of-the-art training centre caters to aspiring youth from Hemgir block in Sundargarh and Lakhanpur block in adjoining Jharsuguda district. It is equipped with cutting-edge facilities, including a multipurpose hall, digital training rooms, trade-specific training areas, and separate hostels for boys and girls. Already, 105 students have enrolled in the first batch, showcasing the community’s enthusiasm for the initiative.
The inauguration was graced by Sundargarh Sadar Sub-Collector, Dasarathi Saraboo, along with other distinguished guests, including Gopal Padhan (ex-Chairman, Hemgir block and BGMS President), Sanyasi Bag (Sarpanch, Garjanjore), and Sunanda Kalo.
Commending Vedanta’s efforts, Saraboo said, “‘VeDakshata’ is a transformative initiative that equips local youth with industry-relevant skills and connects them to placement opportunities. This centre not only uplifts individual lives but also drives economic progress in the district.”
Highlighting the program’s broader vision, Vedanta Aluminium COO Sunil Gupta said, “Skilling the youth lies at the heart of our mission to uplift the socio-economic fabric of the region. The ‘VeDakshata’ skills training centre embodies our steadfast commitment to equipping youngsters with market-relevant skills, empowering them to seize sustainable earning opportunities and thrive in a competitive world.”
“This initiative is a testament to our vision of fostering inclusive economic growth while creating a brighter future for our communities,” quipped Gupta.
Adding to this, Kanshajit Bhaumic, COO of Coal Mines at Vedanta Aluminium, said, “The launch of the ‘VeDakshata’ skills training centre reflects Vedanta’s vision of creating self-reliant communities through targeted skill-building initiatives. This centre will enable the youth to access career pathways that transform their lives.”
In partnership with LearnNet Skills Limited — a joint venture between SchoolNet India Limited and the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) — the centre offers specialized courses in sewing machine operation, electrical maintenance, and food and beverage services. Over the next three years, it aims to train 700 rural youth, connecting them with opportunities beyond their immediate surroundings.
This initiative reinforces Vedanta Aluminium’s vision of fostering inclusive growth and enabling a brighter future for communities in Odisha. With the launch of ‘VeDakshata,’ Vedanta continues to set benchmarks in corporate social responsibility, ensuring sustainable progress for all.
