Nine-day capacity-building program for Anganwadi workers/helpers, focusing on sewing, stitching, and general life skills under the "Usha Silai School program" pilot project in Anganwadi Centres of UT Ladakh was concluded on November 5.

The capacity-building program was jointly organized by the Ladakh Skill Development Mission, Directorate of Social & Tribal Welfare Ladakh, and Usha International Limited under the "Usha Silai School program".

Deputy Chairman, LAHDC Leh, Tsering Angchuk lauded the remarkable progress and achievements of the participants. He further emphasized that the capacity building program is an initial step towards empowerment of the Anganwadi workers and rural women and urged the participants to work towards making this project a successful model of women empowerment. He further added that Anganwadi centers shall aspire to become a hub of Women's Empowerment.

Commissioner Secretary of Technical Education and Skill Development/Social & Tribal Welfare/Mission Director of Ladakh Skill Development Mission, Padma Angmo emphasized the importance of skill development in Ladakh's evolving socio-economic landscape. She praised the trainer of Usha International Limited for the remarkable progress shown by the trainees after the 9-day programme. She also lauded the trainees for their exceptional performance during the training program. 

She said the project will be further scaled up based on the outcome of this pilot project. The Silai School shall be the focal point of skill development in sewing in rural areas, and shall aspire to cater to the demand of various departments for apparel, starting with the social welfare department, she added.

Director of the Social Welfare Department, UT Ladakh Tashi Dolma said that Anganwadi workers shall act as master trainers to further train and offer livelihood opportunities to women in rural villages. This initiative aimed to enhance their abilities and open doors to income-generating opportunities, she added. 

She advised participants to form a group of women like the self-help groups in their respective community, which can cater to the apparel requirements of the market and Govt. Departments.  The Anganwadi workers should regularly continue to practice sewing after performing their primary duties, she added.

The participants gained hands-on experience in sewing and stitching techniques, and machine repairing, thereby nurturing their creative and entrepreneurial potential. The emphasis on general life skills empowered them to navigate life's challenges more effectively.

The successful conclusion of this Nine-Day Capacity Building Program not only celebrates the accomplishments of the participants but also marks a significant step forward in empowering women in the region at the grassroots level. It is a reminder that education and skill development are powerful tools for creating a brighter and more prosperous future for the region.