Odisha News / Vedanta Aluminium’s Skill Drive Trains 1,000 Kalahandi Youths

Bhawanipatna, Sep 24: Vedanta Aluminium has trained over 1,000 youths in Kalahandi district under its structured Skill Development Initiative, enabling sustainable livelihoods through industry-relevant vocational courses and placement support, officials said on Thursday.

The programme, officials said, is designed to bridge the gap between workforce readiness and industry demand in the region.

Since its inception, the initiative has provided training to more than 1,000 young people, with over 75 per cent securing employment opportunities within Odisha. Women account for 55 per cent of the participants, underscoring the programme’s emphasis on inclusive growth. The project operates through residential and non-residential centres in Bhawanipatna and Lanjigada, offering courses such as Assistant Electrician, Sewing Machine Operator, and Food & Beverage Associate.

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Implemented in partnership with government agencies including OSDA and NABARD, the initiative focuses on technical competencies, workplace readiness, and placement support. It is aligned with the vision of a Viksit Bharat, aiming to empower rural youth with skills that enable long-term financial independence.

The impact of the programme is reflected in the journeys of beneficiaries. Bignashwini Bisi from Badguda village, who completed two months of Food & Beverage Service training, has secured employment with a leading restaurant chain. “The training helped me improve my communication skills and gain confidence. Today, I am able to support my family independently,” she said.

Similarly, Abhiram Harijan from Musanal village, who faced limited opportunities due to inadequate technical skills, benefitted from the programme’s training and placement support. He has since secured stable employment. “The training gave me the skills and confidence needed to build a better future,” he said.

Vedanta Aluminium officials said the initiative is not only enhancing workplace readiness but also promoting financial independence and inspiring youth to pursue meaningful careers. By creating pathways to sustainable livelihoods, the company’s efforts are contributing to the socio-economic development of communities across Kalahandi.