How industry-relevant skills and meaningful opportunities are helping young people build brighter futures across Odisha and Chhattisgarh

Bhubaneswar, October 06: For many young people in rural communities, aspirations for a better future often depend on access to the right opportunities. While ambition and determination are abundant, pathways to meaningful employment can sometimes remain out of reach. Through VeDakshata, its skill development initiative, Vedanta Aluminium is helping address this challenge by equipping young women and men from communities around its operations with industry-relevant skills, exposure and opportunities that can lead to sustainable livelihoods.

Implemented in partnership with the Socio-Economic and Educational Development Society (SEEDS), VeDakshata equips participants with training in trades such as Mobile Repairing, Sewing Machine Operations, Food & Beverage Services, Assistant Electrician, among others. In addition to trade-specific training, VeDakshata helps participants develop confidence, communication skills and workplace readiness, enabling them to navigate professional environments and pursue long-term livelihood opportunities.

Sharing her experience, Ms. Gomati Mahakul, who completed the Sewing Machine Operator training under VeDakshata and is now employed with Shahi Exports Pvt. Ltd., Bhubaneswar, says:"VeDakshata gave me the confidence to believe in my own abilities and pursue employment. Securing my first job was a proud moment for me and my family, and it has helped me become more independent and optimistic about my future."

Having successfully completed the Assistant Electrician programme and secured employment with Nija Manpower Service, Hyderabad, Mr. Salim Tupun shares: "Learning a technical trade gave me a clear direction for my future. The practical exposure and hands-on experience helped me build skills that are relevant to the workplace, while also giving me the confidence to support myself and contribute to my family's aspirations."

A key pillar of VeDakshata is its network of trainers and mentors, who work closely with participants throughout their learning journey. In addition to technical instruction, they help young people develop the professionalism, discipline and workplace awareness needed to succeed in evolving work environments. 

Sharing his experience, Mr. Narayan Das, Program Manager, VeDakshata says, "Every batch brings together young people with different aspirations and backgrounds, but a shared willingness to learn. It is rewarding to see participants grow through the programme, adapt to workplace expectations and apply their learning in real-world settings. Their achievements reflect not only the opportunities created through VeDakshata but also their dedication and determination to build a better future for themselves."

While the impact of VeDakshata is reflected in the journeys of individual participants, its influence extends far beyond them. As more young people gain skills, secure employment and become self-reliant, they are inspiring, greater aspiration and confidence within their communities. Vedanta Aluminium has empowered more than 16,000 young women and men through skill development across Odisha and Chhattisgarh, helping them access industry-relevant training and creating pathways to sustainable livelihoods.

Sharing her perspective on the positive change taking shape within the community, Ms. Sunanda Kalo, Sarpanch, Garjanjore Gram Panchayat, says,"We have seen a noticeable change in the confidence and aspirations of youth. As more young people gain skills and secure employment, they are inspiring others in the community to come forward and explore similar opportunities. I appreciate the efforts of Vedanta Aluminium in helping our youth build skills, become self-reliant and work towards a brighter future for themselves and their families."

For many participants, the programme has opened doors to employment, strengthened their confidence and enabled them to become more self-reliant. In doing so, it has helped them chart their own path forward and contribute meaningfully to their families and communities.

Through its community development initiatives, Vedanta Aluminium is positively impacting over 10 lakh people across Odisha and Chhattisgarh, spanning education, healthcare, livelihoods, skill development. Through initiatives like VeDakshata, Vedanta Aluminium continues to support youth in building skills, pursuing opportunities and creating a better future for themselves, their families and their communities.

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