Empower Rural Women Through SSDC Sewing Centers

Inauguration of Samoon Foundation’s First Skill Development Centre (SSDC1) – Village Tunggi, Devprayag On 8th September 2019, Samoon Foundation proudly inaugurated its first Samoon Skill Development Centre (SSDC1) in the remote village of Tunggi, Devprayag. The event marked a significant milestone in the Foundation’s mission to empower rural women through skill development. The inauguration ceremony witnessed active participation from members of the Samoon family, local villagers, and residents from surrounding areas. The community warmly welcomed the initiative, expressing joy and enthusiasm for the opportunity to learn sewing skills. Within a short time, 20 girls and women registered for training at the center. The training is being led by Ms. Sheela, a skilled woman from the village with 2 years of experience and a 1-year diploma under the Ministry of Skill Development. She is committed to sharing her expertise and helping local women become self-reliant through sewing and tailoring skills. The initiative received widespread appreciation from the community for its focus on women empowerment and self-sufficiency. This first step laid the foundation for many more centers to come, each with the goal of transforming lives through skill-based education. The Samoon family extends heartfelt gratitude to all the generous donors whose financial contributions made this noble cause possible. Their support played a crucial role in launching this impactful journey.

Inauguration of SSDC2 – Samoon Sewing Training Centre Relocated to Roomdhar, Tehri Garhwal. After the successful completion of a 6-month sewing training course for rural women and girls in Tunggi, Devprayag, the training activities were temporarily halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, the mission to empower women remained strong. On 1st December 2020, Samoon Foundation proudly inaugurated its second Samoon Skill Development Centre (SSDC2) by relocating the sewing training center to Roomdhar, Tehri Garhwal. This strategic shift marks a renewed commitment to enabling self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods for women in the hills. The first day saw an inspiring response — over 25 women and girls enrolled for sewing and knitting training, demonstrating a strong community interest in acquiring skills and becoming self-sufficient. Centre Trainer: Ms. Usha Devi, a skilled and passionate instructor, will lead the training sessions at SSDC2. Program Coordinator: Ms. Padma Uniyal will oversee and manage the operations of the program, ensuring smooth implementation and community engagement. SSDC2 is not just a training facility — it is a symbol of resilience, revival, and rural transformation. Samoon Foundation remains dedicated to reaching more villages, uplifting more women, and creating meaningful livelihood opportunities through skill development.

Inauguration of SSDC3 – Samoon Sewing & Knitting Training Centre, Lwah (Chamoli), in Memory of Shaheed Kuwar Singh Kandari. On 7th February 2021, Samoon Foundation inaugurated its third Samoon Skill Development Centre (SSDC3) – the Samoon Sewing & Knitting Training Centre in Lwah, Chamoli, established in honor of the martyr Shaheed Kuwar Singh Kandari, who laid down his life in service of the nation. The inauguration ceremony was gracefully conducted by renowned environmentalist Shri Jagat Singh “Jangli”, with Shri Vijay Mohan Panyuli presiding as the chief guest. The event was marked by a warm and heartfelt welcome extended by the local women’s groups and villagers, for which the Samoon team expresses deep gratitude. Women and girls from the region expressed great joy and enthusiasm at the opening of the center, recognizing the new opportunity it offers to learn sewing and knitting and move towards self-reliance. Centre Trainer: Ms. Sangeeta, an experienced and dedicated instructor guiding the participants with practical skills. Program Coordinator: Ms. Beena Bisht, overseeing the smooth execution of training and community engagement. Samoon Foundation remains committed to women empowerment, and SSDC3 stands as another step forward in this mission. With continued efforts, the Foundation aims to establish more such centers in remote areas to uplift and skill rural women and girls.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC04) - Lwah Gaon, Chamoli, Uttarakhand Located in Lwah Gaon, Chamoli, Uttarakhand, Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC04) was inaugurated on February 7, 2021, as the fourth center of the Samoon Foundation, focusing on empowering local women and girls. Guided by Centre Trainer Sangeeta and Program Coordinator Beena Bisht, this center has made a significant impact, providing valuable swing skills to 40 women and girls. With the strong support of Gram Pradhan Sashi Pundir, SSDC04 has fostered self-reliance and community resilience, contributing to the broader development of the region. This initiative also pays tribute to Martyr Kunwar Singh Bhandari, further strengthening the center’s connection to the local community and its heroes.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC05), located in Purwal Gaon, Patti-Hindaw, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, began its impactful journey on April 10, 2023, and successfully concluded on September 10, 2023. As the fifth center under the Samoon Foundation’s flagship skills development initiative, SSDC05 served as a vibrant hub for empowering women and girls through swing and tailoring training. This initiative directly benefited 40 participants, equipping them with practical skills to foster self-reliance and economic opportunity. The center was skillfully led by Centre Trainer Vineeta Devi and Program Coordinator Vikram Shah, whose dedication ensured an environment of focused learning and personal growth. Importantly, the involvement of Gram Pradhan Sanjay Tiwari, especially during the inauguration, added vital community support and affirmed the strong local ownership of the program. SSDC05 reflects Samoon Foundation’s holistic approach to rural development—where empowering individuals through skill enhancement leads to lasting change. As this center concludes its chapter, the impact lives on through the women and girls who now carry forward not just skills, but confidence, purpose, and the ability to shape their future.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC06), located in Village Khawara (Vinakkhal), Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, began operations on December 10, 2023, as part of Samoon Foundation’s unwavering mission to empower women through skill development. As the sixth center in the SSDC initiative, SSDC06 is currently active and is focused on training more than 40 women and girls in essential swing and tailoring skills, enabling them to build independent and sustainable livelihoods. Under the guidance of Centre Trainer Mamta Rawat and Program Coordinator Vikram Shah, the center has quickly grown into a nurturing space for personal and professional growth. The active participation of Gram Pradhan Kuldeep Singh Rawat since the beginning has reinforced community trust and support, ensuring that the initiative remains deeply rooted in local engagement. SSDC06 stands as a living example of Samoon Foundation’s holistic approach to development—where empowering women not only transforms individual lives but also uplifts entire communities. As the center continues its mission, it serves as a beacon of hope and progress for Khawara and the surrounding region of Tehri Garhwal, laying the foundation for long-term social and economic change.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC07), located in the serene village of Nala, Vikaskhand-Ukhimath, District Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, was inaugurated on January 13, 2024, marking another milestone in Samoon Foundation’s mission to empower rural communities through skill development. As the seventh center in this impactful initiative, SSDC07 continues to operate actively, bringing meaningful change to the lives of local residents. Guided by Centre Trainer Sakshi and Program Coordinator Vipin Semwal, the center currently supports 20 beneficiaries who are receiving hands-on training in essential skills that foster self-reliance and personal growth. The center serves as a vital resource for women and youth, offering them the tools to build a better future and contribute positively to their households and community. The enthusiastic support of Gram Pradhan Kalpeshwari Devi has played a crucial role in the success and acceptance of the center within the village. Her active involvement highlights the power of grassroots leadership in driving sustainable development. SSDC07 stands as a symbol of empowerment, progress, and hope in Nala and the surrounding areas. Through this initiative, Samoon Foundation continues to champion inclusive growth and community-driven development, making a lasting impact across Uttarakhand.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC08) – Kurn Village, Patti-Bharpur, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand On March 10, 2024, Samoon Foundation inaugurated its 8th Skills Development Center in Kurn Village, Tehri Garhwal. This initiative is part of the foundation’s mission to empower rural communities by providing skill development opportunities. The center aims to empower local women and girls by offering free tailoring and stitching training, fostering self-reliance. The inauguration saw enthusiastic participation from local women, girls, and youth, eager to learn and build better futures. Local leaders, including former village head Jagdish Singh, Block Member Shashi Devi, and Samoon Foundation members Virendra Negi, Dhirendra Jethuri, Subhash Jethuri, Manohar Singh Rawat, and Manoj Paliwal, supported the launch. The center is managed by trainers Pinki Devi and Vijendra Kumar. SSDC08 is a step forward in building a self-reliant and skilled Uttarakhand through grassroots development.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC09) – Beleshwar, Chamiyala, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand On May 3, 2024, Samoon Foundation inaugurated its 9th Skills Development Center in Beleshwar, Chamiyala, Tehri Garhwal. SSDC09 is designed to empower local communities through skill development, offering vocational and technical training to 35 beneficiaries. The center’s programs focus on enhancing employability and entrepreneurial skills, bridging the skill gap and fostering self-sufficiency. With the guidance of Sheela Tiwari, the dedicated trainer, beneficiaries will receive hands-on training in various trades. Program Coordinator Vikram Shah ensures the center operates smoothly, aligning with the foundation’s goals of sustainable community development. SSDC09 is a significant step toward creating better job opportunities and improving the quality of life for the residents of Chamiyala and surrounding areas.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC10) – Dayal Sant Kutiya, Augustmuni, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand On May 21, 2024, Samoon Foundation inaugurated SSDC10 at Dayal Sant Kutiya, Augustmuni, Rudraprayag. This center aims to empower local communities by providing vocational and technical training to 40 beneficiaries, enhancing their employability and economic prospects. The center focuses on equipping individuals with practical skills and knowledge, enabling them to secure better employment opportunities. Under the expert guidance of trainer Ms. Madhuri Negi, beneficiaries will receive a combination of theoretical and hands-on training. Program Coordinator Ms. Chandra Negi ensures smooth operations, aligning the center’s activities with the foundation’s mission. SSDC10 reflects Samoon Foundation’s commitment to sustainable community development, offering a transformative impact for the people of Augustmuni and surrounding areas.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC11) – Sour, Patti Bharpoor, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand On June 24, 2024, Samoon Foundation inaugurated its 11th Skills Development Center (SSDC11) in the village of Sour, Patti Bharpoor, Tehri Garhwal. The center is dedicated to empowering local communities by offering vocational and technical training to over 30 beneficiaries. SSDC11 focuses on bridging the skill gap and fostering self-sufficiency through tailored programs designed to meet local employment needs. Under the guidance of Ms. Sanjana, the dedicated trainer, beneficiaries receive hands-on, practical training that prepares them for better employment opportunities. The program’s smooth operation is overseen by Mr. Bijendra Kumar, the program coordinator, ensuring the center aligns with the Samoon Foundation’s mission for sustainable community development. SSDC11 stands as a beacon of hope, contributing to the economic well-being of the region.

On April 7, 2025, Samoon Foundation proudly inaugurated its 12th Samoon Skill Development Centre (SSDC12) in the remote village of Banjabagad, Nanda Nagar, Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. This center aims to empower rural women by providing them with skill-based training that fosters self-reliance. Until now, women in this village had to travel over 5 kilometers even for basic tailoring needs, making it difficult for them to access skill development opportunities. Inspired by his own journey toward self-sufficiency, differently-abled villager Mr. Laxman Rawat—who runs a general store and flour mill established five years ago with the support of Samoon Foundation—requested the opening of this center. His efforts were supported by Women’s Group President Mrs. Darshani Devi, who played a key role in mobilizing local women and encouraging their participation. Over 25 women have already enrolled, and the center will be led by Ms. Gudiya Devi, a skilled instructor in tailoring and knitting. The inaugural event was attended by enthusiastic women from the village including Parvati Devi, Savitri Devi, Sangeeta Devi, Maheshwari Devi, and Seema Devi, who shared their excitement and support for this initiative.

SSDC13 – Osla Village, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand In the remote village of Osla, Uttarkashi district, Samoon Foundation has been working to promote education and skill development for the past four years. Through Samoon Adarsh Vidyalaya, children from Osla and neighboring Pavani village are receiving free quality education, uniforms, and stationery. To further this initiative, the Foundation recently inaugurated the "Samoon Skill Development Centre" (SSDC13), with a focus on empowering women through sewing and knitting training. The center is equipped with 7 sewing machines, providing local women with the opportunity to become self-reliant and improve their financial well-being. The inauguration ceremony was attended by School Coordinator Vijaypal Rana, Parent Committee President Khajan Singh, and the Samoon Foundation team. The local community expressed gratitude to Mr. Vinod Jethuri, the Founder of Samoon Foundation, for bringing this transformative initiative to their village. This center is aligned with the vision of Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami’s campaign encouraging Non-Resident Uttarakhandis (NRUs) to adopt villages for holistic development. Mr. Vinod Jethuri adopted Osla village, committing to uplift it through education, skill training, and sustainable development. This initiative will empower women and girls, providing them with new opportunities and a brighter, self-sufficient future.

Inauguration of SSDC14 – Kordi Village, Pratapnagar, Tehri Garhwal (1st June 2024) On 1st June 2024, Samoon Foundation inaugurated its 14th Skill Development Centre (SSDC14) in Kordi village, Pratapnagar block, Tehri Garhwal. This center is dedicated to providing free tailoring training to rural women and girls, aiming to promote self-reliance and economic empowerment. The opening event saw active participation from local villagers, community leaders, and foundation members. Over 20 women registered for the first batch, reflecting the community’s strong interest in skill-based learning. The training is being conducted by qualified local instructors, with certificates awarded upon completion and support offered for employment or self-employment. SSDC14 was made possible through the special contribution of Shri Ramesh Indra Dutt Naithani, whose support helped transform this vision into reality. The center stands as a symbol of collective effort, empowerment, and hope for a better future for women in the hills.

Successful Inauguration of the 15th Samoon Skill Development Center (SSDC15) With the objective of making women and girls self-reliant and economically empowered, Samoon Foundation successfully inaugurated its 15th Samoon Skill Development Center (SSDC15) on 6 February 2026 at Gram Panchayat Pangariyana, Patti Hindav, Block Bhilangana, District Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand. The center was formally inaugurated by the Chief Guest Shri Vikram Ghanata, District Panchayat Member, Hindav. The inauguration ceremony was graced by the presence of Smt. Krishna Devi (Pradhan, Pangariyana), Smt. Vinita Devi (Pradhan, Mahar Gaon Malla), Smt. Pushpa Devi (Pradhan, Laini), Kumari Sachina Jaiswal (Pradhan, Dorsil), Shri Sandeep Arya (Social Worker), Shri Kedar Singh Negi (Former Pradhan, Pangariyana), Shri Fate Singh Rana (President, Sangharsh Samiti Gyarah Gaon), along with public representatives, social workers, Samoon Foundation’s Tehri Garhwal District Coordinator Shri Vikram Shah Ji, and respected members of the local community. Through this center, women and girls from rural areas will be provided free tailoring and skill-based training, enabling them to move towards self-employment and strengthen their families’ economic conditions. The center will serve as an important platform for learning, confidence building, and promoting self-reliance among rural women. Samoon Foundation continues to work towards establishing more such centers in rural Himalayan regions with the aim of ensuring that development reaches the last person in society.