Empower Rural Women Through SSDC Sewing Centers

On 8 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 nearby areas. The community warmly welcomed the initiative and expressed great enthusiasm for the opportunity to learn sewing skills. Within a short period, 20 girls and women had registered for training at the centre.
The training was conducted by Ms. Sheela, a skilled woman from the village who had two years of practical experience and had completed a one-year diploma under the Ministry of Skill Development. She dedicated herself to sharing her knowledge and helping local women become self-reliant through sewing and tailoring skills.

The establishment of SSDC1 laid the foundation for Samoon Foundation’s efforts to promote women’s empowerment and sustainable livelihoods in rural communities.

Inauguration of SSDC2 – Samoon Sewing Training Centre Relocated to Roomdhar, Tehri Garhwal

Following the successful completion of a six-month sewing training program for rural women and girls in Tunggi, Devprayag, the training activities were temporarily suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the Foundation’s mission to empower women remained unwavering.

On 1 December 2020, Samoon Foundation inaugurated its second Samoon Skill Development Centre (SSDC2) by relocating the sewing training centre to Roomdhar, Tehri Garhwal. This strategic move marked a renewed commitment to promoting self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods for women living in the hills.

The reopening received an encouraging response from the community. On the very first day, more than 25 women and girls enrolled for sewing and knitting training, reflecting a strong desire to acquire skills and become financially independent.

The training sessions at SSDC2 were led by Ms. Usha Devi, a skilled and dedicated instructor who played a vital role in imparting practical knowledge to the participants.

The overall implementation and coordination of the program were overseen by Ms. Padma Uniyal, who ensured the smooth functioning of the centre and maintained active engagement with the community.

SSDC2 became more than just a training facility; it emerged as a symbol of resilience, revival, and rural transformation. Through this initiative, Samoon Foundation continued its commitment to reaching underserved villages, empowering women, and creating meaningful livelihood opportunities through skill development.

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Inauguration of SSDC3 – Samoon Sewing & Knitting Training Centre, Lwah (Chamoli), in Memory of Shaheed Kuwar Singh Kandari

On 7 February 2021, Samoon Foundation inaugurated its third Samoon Skill Development Centre (SSDC3) – the Samoon Sewing & Knitting Training Centre at Lwah, Chamoli, established in memory of Shaheed Kuwar Singh Kandari, who had laid down his life in service of the nation.
The inauguration ceremony was conducted by renowned environmentalist Shri Jagat Singh “Jangli”, while Shri Vijay Mohan Panyuli attended the event as the chief guest. The occasion was marked by a warm and heartfelt welcome from local women’s groups and villagers, for which the Samoon team expressed sincere gratitude.

Women and girls from the region welcomed the opening of the centre with great joy and enthusiasm, recognizing the opportunity it provided to learn sewing and knitting skills and move towards self-reliance.
The training sessions at the centre were conducted by Ms. Sangeeta, an experienced and dedicated instructor who guided the participants in developing practical sewing and knitting skills.
The overall implementation and community engagement activities were coordinated by Ms. Beena Bisht, who ensured the smooth execution of the program.

SSDC3 represented another important step in Samoon Foundation’s mission of women’s empowerment. Through this initiative, the Foundation continued its efforts to establish similar centres in remote areas and provide rural women and girls with opportunities for skill development and sustainable livelihoods.

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 centre of the Samoon Foundation, with the aim of empowering local women and girls. Under the guidance of centre trainer Sangeeta and Program Coordinator Beena Bisht, the centre made a significant impact by providing valuable sewing skills to 40 women and girls. With the strong support of Gram Pradhan Sashi Pundir, SSDC04 fostered self-reliance and strengthened community resilience, contributing to the broader development of the region. The initiative also paid tribute to Martyr Kunwar Singh Bhandari, further deepening the center’s connection with the local community and honoring its heroes.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC05) – Purwal Gaon, Patti-Hindaw, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC05), located in Purwal Gaon, Patti-Hindaw, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, began its 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 platform for empowering women and girls through sewing and tailoring training. The initiative directly benefited 40 participants, equipping them with practical skills that promoted self-reliance and enhanced economic opportunities.
The center was led by Centre Trainer Vineeta Devi and Program Coordinator Vikram Shah, whose dedication created an environment conducive to focused learning and personal growth. The active involvement of Gram Pradhan Sanjay Tiwari, particularly during the inauguration, provided valuable community support and reinforced strong local ownership of the program.
SSDC05 reflected Samoon Foundation’s holistic approach to rural development, where empowering individuals through skill enhancement created lasting change. Although the center concluded its chapter, its impact continued through the women and girls who carried forward not only skills but also confidence, purpose, and the ability to shape their futures.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC06) – Village Khawara (Vinakkhal), Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC06), located in Village Khawara (Vinakkhal), Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, commenced operations on December 10, 2023, as part of Samoon Foundation’s mission to empower women through skill development. As the sixth center under the SSDC initiative, SSDC06 focused on training more than 40 women and girls in essential sewing and tailoring skills, enabling them to pursue independent and sustainable livelihoods.
Under the guidance of Centre Trainer Mamta Rawat and Program Coordinator Vikram Shah, the center developed into a nurturing space for personal and professional growth. The active participation of Gram Pradhan Kuldeep Singh Rawat from the outset strengthened community trust and support, ensuring that the initiative remained deeply rooted in local engagement.
SSDC06 stood as a testament to Samoon Foundation’s holistic approach to development, where empowering women transformed not only individual lives but also uplifted entire communities. Through its efforts, the center served as a source of hope and progress for Khawara and the surrounding region of Tehri Garhwal, helping to lay the foundation for long-term social and economic development.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC07) – Nala, Vikaskhand Ukhimath, Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand

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 under this impactful initiative, SSDC07 brought meaningful change to the lives of local residents.
Under the guidance of Centre Trainer Sakshi and Program Coordinator Vipin Semwal, the center supported 20 beneficiaries by providing hands-on training in essential skills that fostered self-reliance and personal growth. The center served as a valuable resource for women and youth, equipping them with the skills needed to build better futures and contribute positively to their households and community.
The enthusiastic support of Gram Pradhan Kalpeshwari Devi played a crucial role in the success and acceptance of the center within the village. Her active involvement demonstrated the importance of grassroots leadership in promoting sustainable development.
SSDC07 stood as a symbol of empowerment, progress, and hope in Nala and the surrounding areas. Through this initiative, Samoon Foundation championed inclusive growth and community-driven development, creating 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 eighth Skills Development Center in Kurn Village, Tehri Garhwal. The initiative formed part of the Foundation’s mission to empower rural communities through skill development opportunities.
The center aimed to empower local women and girls by providing free tailoring and stitching training, fostering self-reliance and enhancing livelihood opportunities. The inauguration witnessed enthusiastic participation from local women, girls, and youth, who showed a keen interest in learning and building better futures.
The launch received strong support from 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. The center was managed by Centre Trainer Pinki Devi and Program Coordinator Vijendra Kumar, whose efforts helped create a supportive environment for learning and skill development.
SSDC08 stood as an important step toward building a self-reliant and skilled Uttarakhand through grassroots development. Through this initiative, Samoon Foundation strengthened community resilience and contributed to the social and economic empowerment of women and girls in the region.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC09) – Beleshwar, Chamiyala, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand

On May 3, 2024, Samoon Foundation inaugurated its ninth Skills Development Center in Beleshwar, Chamiyala, Tehri Garhwal. SSDC09 was established to empower local communities through skill development, providing vocational and technical training to 35 beneficiaries.

The center’s programs focused on enhancing employability and entrepreneurial skills, bridging the skill gap and promoting self-sufficiency. Under the guidance of Centre Trainer Sheela Tiwari, beneficiaries received hands-on training in various trades, enabling them to develop practical skills and improve their livelihood opportunities.

Program Coordinator Vikram Shah ensured the smooth functioning of the center and aligned its activities with the Foundation’s vision of sustainable community development. SSDC09 represented an important step toward creating better livelihood opportunities and improving the quality of life for the residents of Chamiyala and the surrounding areas.

Through this initiative, Samoon Foundation strengthened community resilience and contributed to the social and economic empowerment of women and youth, leaving a lasting impact on the region.

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. The center was established to empower local communities by providing vocational and technical training to 40 beneficiaries, enhancing their employability and economic prospects.

The center focused on equipping individuals with practical skills and knowledge, enabling them to access better livelihood opportunities. Under the expert guidance of Centre Trainer Ms. Madhuri Negi, beneficiaries received a combination of theoretical and hands-on training, which helped them develop valuable skills and confidence.

Program Coordinator Ms. Chandra Negi ensured the smooth functioning of the center and aligned its activities with the Foundation’s mission of sustainable community development. SSDC10 reflected Samoon Foundation’s commitment to empowering communities and creating opportunities for social and economic advancement.

Through this initiative, the Foundation made a meaningful contribution to the lives of the people of Augustmuni and the surrounding areas, leaving a lasting impact through skill development and self-reliance.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC11) – Sour, Patti Bharpoor, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand

On June 24, 2024, Samoon Foundation inaugurated its eleventh Skills Development Center (SSDC11) in the village of Sour, Patti Bharpoor, Tehri Garhwal. The center was established to empower local communities by providing vocational and technical training to more than 30 beneficiaries. SSDC11 focused on bridging the skill gap and fostering self-sufficiency through programs tailored to local employment needs.

Under the guidance of Centre Trainer Ms. Sanjana, beneficiaries received hands-on, practical training that equipped them with the skills needed to pursue better livelihood opportunities. The smooth functioning of the program was overseen by Program Coordinator Mr. Bijendra Kumar, ensuring that the center’s activities remained aligned with Samoon Foundation’s vision of sustainable community development.

SSDC11 served as a source of hope and opportunity for the local community, contributing to the economic well-being of the region. Through this initiative, Samoon Foundation strengthened self-reliance and created a lasting impact by empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to improve their quality of life.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC12) – Banjabagad, Nanda Nagar, Chamoli, Uttarakhand

On April 7, 2025, Samoon Foundation inaugurated its twelfth Samoon Skill Development Center (SSDC12) in the remote village of Banjabagad, Nanda Nagar, Chamoli district, Uttarakhand. The center was established with the objective of empowering rural women through skill-based training that promoted self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.

Prior to the establishment of the center, women in the village had to travel more than five kilometers even for basic tailoring needs, limiting their access to skill development opportunities. Inspired by his own journey toward self-sufficiency, differently-abled villager Mr. Laxman Rawat, who had been running a general store and flour mill established five years earlier with the support of Samoon Foundation, requested the opening of the center. His efforts were supported by Women’s Group President Mrs. Darshani Devi, who played an important role in mobilizing local women and encouraging their participation.

More than 25 women enrolled in the program, and the center was led by Centre Trainer Ms. Gudiya Devi, a skilled instructor in tailoring and knitting. The inaugural event witnessed enthusiastic participation from village women, including Parvati Devi, Savitri Devi, Sangeeta Devi, Maheshwari Devi, and Seema Devi, who expressed their happiness and support for the initiative.

SSDC12 represented another significant step in Samoon Foundation’s mission to strengthen rural communities through skill development. By creating access to training opportunities within the village itself, the center contributed to enhancing self-reliance, economic opportunities, and the overall well-being of women in the region.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC13) – Osla Village, Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand

In the remote village of Osla in Uttarkashi district, Samoon Foundation had been working to promote education and skill development for the previous four years. Through Samoon Adarsh Vidyalaya, children from Osla and the neighboring village of Pavani received free quality education, uniforms, and stationery.

To further this mission, the Foundation inaugurated the thirteenth Samoon Skill Development Center (SSDC13), focusing on empowering women through sewing and knitting training. The center was equipped with seven sewing machines, providing local women with opportunities 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 members of the Samoon Foundation team. The local community expressed its gratitude to Mr. Vinod Jethuri, Founder of Samoon Foundation, for bringing this transformative initiative to their village.

The center 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. As part of this vision, Mr. Vinod Jethuri adopted Osla village and committed himself to its upliftment through education, skill training, and sustainable development. Through this initiative, women and girls gained access to new opportunities, fostering self-reliance and contributing to a brighter and more sustainable future for the community.

Samoon Skills Development Center (SSDC14) – Kordi Village, Pratapnagar, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand

On 1st June 2024, Samoon Foundation inaugurated its fourteenth Skill Development Center (SSDC14) in Kordi village, Pratapnagar block, Tehri Garhwal. The center was established to provide free tailoring training to rural women and girls, with the objective of promoting self-reliance and economic empowerment.

The inauguration event witnessed active participation from local villagers, community leaders, and members of the Foundation. More than 20 women registered for the first batch, demonstrating the community’s strong interest in skill-based learning. The training was conducted by qualified local instructors, and participants were awarded certificates upon successful completion of the program. Support was also provided to facilitate employment and self-employment opportunities.

SSDC14 was made possible through the generous contribution of Shri Ramesh Indra Dutt Naithani, whose support helped turn this vision into reality. The center served as a symbol of collective effort, empowerment, and hope, contributing to a brighter future for women in the hill regions.

Through this initiative, Samoon Foundation strengthened its commitment to rural development by equipping women and girls with valuable skills, fostering confidence, and creating pathways toward sustainable livelihoods.

Successful Inauguration of the 15th Samoon Skill Development Center (SSDC15) – Pangariyana, Patti Hindav, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand

With the objective of promoting self-reliance and economic empowerment among women and girls, Samoon Foundation inaugurated its fifteenth 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 Chief Guest Shri Vikram Ghanata, District Panchayat Member, Hindav. The inauguration ceremony was attended by 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, and respected members of the local community.

Through this center, women and girls from rural areas received free tailoring and skill-based training, enabling them to move towards self-employment and strengthen their families’ economic conditions. The center served as an important platform for learning, confidence building, and the promotion of self-reliance among rural women.

SSDC15 reflected Samoon Foundation’s continued commitment to expanding skill development opportunities in rural Himalayan regions. Through such initiatives, the Foundation worked to ensure that the benefits of development reached the most remote and underserved communities, empowering women and fostering sustainable social and economic progress.