Leading NGO Empowering Rural Communities through Vocational Skill Development
Livelihood Enhancement through Skill Development:
Ajagar Social Circle (ASC) believes that building the skills of rural youth is key to strengthening livelihoods and local economies. Recognizing the challenges faced by underprivileged communities in Assam — where opportunities for quality education and training are limited — ASC has focused on equipping individuals with practical, industry-relevant skills.
It is not a lack of potential, but a gap in access to the right skills, training, and guidance that holds many back. Through targeted skill development programs in areas such as rubber tapping, weaving, entrepreneurship, and agro-based livelihoods, ASC helps channel the energy of youth and women towards productive economic activities, fostering self-reliance and contributing to sustainable community development.
Problems that we face in youths for skill development
- Gaps in basic technical and vocational skills, especially in rural sectors like rubber tapping, weaving, and agriculture.
- Limited exposure to modern methods, industry practices, and entrepreneurial thinking.
- Lack of confidence and inadequate soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and leadership.
- Low awareness of quality standards, safety practices, and workplace discipline.
- High rates of absenteeism, lack of motivation, and reluctance to commit to structured training programs.
- Socio-economic barriers such as poverty, early employment pressures, and lack of family support for skill-based careers.
Action taken by ASC for Livelihood Enhancement through Skill Development
ASC has been actively implementing targeted skill development programs for livelihood enhancement in rural Assam. Here are the key actions taken under this initiative:
- Natural Rubber Tapping Training (2011–12): Hands-on training in Goalpara District under NABARD’s Skill Development Initiative, boosting plantation management skills and income.
- Rural Entrepreneurship Development Programme (REDP, 2006–07): Entrepreneurship training with NABARD support, covering small business management, financial literacy, and marketing.
- Rubber Tapping Training (PMKVY, 2016–17): Skill Academy certification in rubber tapping, forest resource management, and agro-skills for youth employability.
- Weavers Training Programme (NEDFi, 2016–17): Training in loom operations, design innovation, and cooperative marketing for traditional weavers.
- Capacity Building of Weavers (2020–21): Advanced workshops on weaving techniques, design development, and digital marketing during COVID‑19.
- Entrepreneurship & Skill Upgradation: Ongoing integration of business and technical training across projects to empower sustainable livelihoods.
Dasra – Rebuild India Fund
A strategic partnership empowering grassroots organisations to scale impact
Multi‑Year Unrestricted Grant
The Rebuild India Fund (managed by Dasra in partnership with the Tarsadia Foundation) provides ₹10 lakh annually for up to five years, totalling ₹50 lakh in flexible funding. This enables Ajagar Social Circle to invest in its people, systems, and long‑term strategy without restrictions.
Capacity Building & Peer Learning
Beyond financial support, the Rebuild India Fund strengthens organisational capacity. In early 2024, ASC participated in a peer exposure visit to UTMT Society in Palghar, Maharashtra, learning sustainable beekeeping techniques that complement local agricultural livelihoods.
Glimpses of ASC’s skill development programmes supported through the Rebuild India Fund
“The support from Dasra and the Rebuild India Fund has been transformational. It allows us to focus on what matters most — empowering our communities with sustainable skills and opportunities.”
– Team, Ajagar Social Circle