With pride, Berger Paints India Ltd. celebrated the accomplishments of its countrywide upskilling program by releasing a coffee table book titled “From Canvas to Community”. Over 3,00,000 household painters who were educated throughout India through the “iTrain on Wheels” program—a collaboration with the Smile Foundation—have their case studies collected in this book.

Through the successful upskilling of painters, the initiative—which runs 23 mobile training units throughout 25 states and 3 union territories—has increased the employability and entrepreneurial potential of painters. The program places a lot of emphasis on empowering women in the historically male-dominated painting profession.

“We at Berger Paints think that artists should have the greatest possible chances to flourish. We’re dedicated to supporting their livelihood improvement, skill upgrades, and overall growth and development because of this. Hence, we are especially eager to increase the participation of women in the profession, breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive and diverse community. We are investing in the future of artists by giving them the tools they need to better themselves and their families, particularly in small towns and villages. Being a part of their journey towards a better tomorrow makes us proud” said Mr. Abhijit Roy, MD & CEO of Berger Paints.

Mr. Santanu Mishra, co-founder and executive trustee of the Smile Foundation, said, “This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration and commitment to make a positive impact in the lives of ordinary household painters. We are advancing both the individual and the larger welfare of society by giving men and women the tools they need to succeed in the paint industry. We appreciate Berger Paints India Ltd. putting its faith in Smile Foundation to carry out this ground-breaking initiative”.

The book captures the life-changing effects of the iTrain on Wheels program and is a monument to these inspirational journeys.

Priyanka Dutta