Women-led microenterprise launched under Hindustan Zinc’s CSR transforming lives in Rajasthan and Uttarakhand
Hindustan Zinc, through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, is running several projects aimed at uplifting rural communities, with a key focus on promoting micro-enterprises. Over the past five years, two women-led industries have been established, fostering entrepreneurship among women. One such significant initiative is the Sakhi Utpadan Samiti, a women-owned and women-led social enterprise founded in August 2021, which is bringing transformative change to the lives of rural women across Rajasthan.
Launched under Hindustan Zinc’s flagship CSR program Sakhi, the Samiti has organized over 30,000 women into more than 2,000 Self-Help Groups (SHGs), empowering them socially and economically. Collectively, these groups have saved ₹18.8 crore and accessed credit worth over ₹100.6 crore, granting thousands of rural women financial independence and stability.
Empowerment Through Local Industry: Stories of Transformation
Indira Meena from Javar village near Udaipur, who works at a snack production unit, shares her journey: “Having this unit near my home has been a true blessing. Every day, I eagerly look forward to coming here, working with my fellow Sakhi members, and learning the art of making tasty snacks. Our namkeens are made using pure ingredients, cold-pressed oils, and in-house spices. Today, I stand on my own feet, support my son’s education, and manage my household with pride. The women I work with are like family, and together, we empower one another.”
Sakhi Products Gaining Popularity Among Public
Recognizing the importance of income generation, Hindustan Zinc has connected Sakhi’s products with local, state, and national markets. Under the Sakhi Utpadan Samiti, two main brands have been developed:
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Daychi: This brand offers pure and chemical-free food products such as ghee, pickles, cold-pressed oils, spices, and snacks, all prepared using traditional methods and natural ingredients sourced directly from farmers.
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Upaya: Known for fusing traditional Rajasthani hand-block prints and natural dyes with contemporary designs, this brand creates comfortable, functional, and affordable apparel. Designer garments, bags, and home décor items are gaining strong traction among customers.
Livelihood and Dignity for Rural Women
The Sakhi Utpadan Samiti is committed to creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for rural women, enabling them to earn with dignity. Many of these women, who had never worked outside their homes before, are now becoming role models within their families and communities. Through dedication and hard work, they are breaking social barriers and inspiring others to dream bigger.
At present, 14 production units (8 textile and 6 food processing) are operational across Rajasthan and Uttarakhand, employing over 200 women. In addition, more than 100 Business Sakhis serve as rural sales ambassadors, selling handcrafted products in nearby villages and towns to earn supplementary income. In FY 2024–25 alone, these Business Sakhis collectively earned ₹39.5 lakh, while Sakhi Utpadan Samiti reported revenue of ₹2.31 crore, reflecting the initiative’s strong impact on women’s livelihoods.
Paving the Path to Entrepreneurship
Hindustan Zinc continues to play a crucial role in integrating rural women into mainstream society by nurturing them into self-reliant entrepreneurs. For the past seven years, the company has been forming SHGs in rural areas and offering interest-based, need-specific training programs that help women create a distinct identity for themselves. The initiative has instilled unshakable confidence among participating women.
Direct Market Access Through E-Commerce
In 2023, the Sakhi Utpadan Samiti launched its first online marketplace, Hearts with Fingers, allowing customers direct access to handmade products and further expanding the reach of rural women entrepreneurs.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
Sakhi Utpadan Samiti Emerges as a Milestone in Empowering Rural Women Entrepreneurs
