Empowering Women Towards Self-Reliance and Entrepreneurship
Empowering women through skill-building, enterprise, and collective action. Project Unnati fosters financial independence and community transformation.
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Self Help Groups Formed
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Women Mobilized in SHGs
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Women Engaged in Micro & Nano Enterprises
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Women Trained Under Entrepreneurship Units
Project Unnatti: Promoting Sustainable, Women Run SHGs for their Socio-economic Development and Empowerment
Women empowerment is about nurturing their self-worth, empowering them to make their own choices, and providing them with the tools to drive socio-economic change for themselves and their communities. With this vision in mind, Project Unnatti was launched to empower and mobilize women into Self-Help Groups (SHGs), building their capacities and entrepreneurial skills. During FY’25, we worked with 535 SHGs, engaging 5,800 women members. Through regular meetings, bank linkages, and connecting them to government schemes, we are strengthening these SHGs and creating valuable entrepreneurial opportunities.
Kosakari: Weaving the Stories of Empowerment Through Craft
Kosakari is BALCO’s women empowerment initiative that blends traditional handloom craftsmanship with sustainable livelihood creation. Rooted in the rich heritage of Kosa silk weaving, the initiative works closely with women artisans and community-led groups, enabling them to build financial independence while preserving time-honoured skills. Through access to resources, continuous skill development, and a structured platform, Kosakari is creating opportunities that go beyond income—fostering confidence, dignity, and long-term resilience.
Every Kosakari saree is handwoven on traditional looms, where each thread is placed with precision and care. The process is deliberate and time-intensive, often taking weeks to complete a single piece. From preparing the loom to crafting intricate motifs, borders, and pallus, the saree evolves gradually—guided by the artisan’s expertise. Created only after an order is placed, this made-to-order approach ensures minimal waste and high quality.
More than a product, each Kosakari saree carries a story, of skill passed through generations, of women shaping their own futures, and of a conscious choice to value craft over mass production. Through this initiative, BALCO continues its commitment to inclusive growth, supporting women artisans as active contributors to their communities and custodians of cultural heritage.
To explore the collection and learn more about the initiative, visit the Kosakari website.
Showcasing Unnati Products
Unnati products gained recognition at prestigious national and international platforms.
Pali Mahotsav
Highlighted traditional crafts and skills at this renowned regional event.
Technex’24, IIT BHU
Showcased innovation-driven products at a premier tech festival.
Bhopal Minister's Meet
Displayed women-led businesses at the State Mining Minister’s conference.
Dilli Haat Festival
Featured at Vedanta Cultural Fest, celebrating art & entrepreneurship.
Celebrating Women’s Empowerment
On International Women’s Day, we celebrate “Unnati Utsav” with community women, adolescent girls, and employees. The event features stalls showcasing entrepreneurial skills, with women linked to various micro & nano-enterprises. During the celebration, we recognize community members who make significant contributions to entrepreneurship, social change, and community leadership, benefiting all.
This initiative is currently being run in partnership with GPR Strategies & Solutions (GPRSS).
