With a convocation ceremony at Hotel Hindustan International in Kolkata, the Ascensive Edu Skill Foundation, in collaboration with the Genius Foundation, successfully wrapped up a one-year program for hand embroidery artisans that focused on skill development, entrepreneurship, and market linkage. The program represented a major turning point in the advancement of artisan-led economic empowerment via sustained market integration and organized skilling.

The program, which was carried out under the Genius Foundation’s CSR effort and the CSR arm of Genius HRTech Limited (previously Genius Consultants Limited), aimed to improve traditional hand embroidery craftsmen’s technical proficiency, capacity for entrepreneurship, and access to organized markets. One important result was the establishment of long-lasting connections between Kashmiri craftsmen and West Bengal local marketplaces, as well as the incorporation of local suppliers and craftspeople into a larger value chain.

The event saw the presence of Mr. R P Yadav, Chairman & Managing Director, Genius HRTech Ltd., Smt. Shaon Sen, Additional Secretary, Department of Labour, Government of West Bengal, senior representatives from Genius HRTech Ltd., Ascensive Group, NSDC, the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, and The Bengal Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

To promote long-term livelihood sustainability through entrepreneurship and guaranteed market access, Mr. Yadav underlined that effective CSR must go beyond training. Smt. Sen emphasized the importance of market connectivity and skill development in bolstering MSME ecosystems and promoting equitable economic growth throughout the state.

To guarantee impact while maintaining traditional craftsmanship, Mr. Abhijit Chatterjee, Chairman of the Ascensive Group of Companies, emphasized the significance of creating comprehensive livelihood ecosystems backed by mentoring, an emphasis on entrepreneurship, and organized market linkages.

A project film, a virtual certificate presentation ceremony, and conversations with artisans who recounted their stories of increased confidence, money, and competence were all part of the event.

The project proved to be a powerful illustration of how cooperative CSR initiatives can support MSMEs, empower craftsmen, and promote long-term, grassroots economic growth.

Priyanka Dutta