July 7, 2025 - Hindustan Zinc is running various projects under its CSR programmes, with a strong focus on promoting small-scale industries. In the last five years, two women-led enterprises have been established where rural women have emerged as entrepreneurs. One such initiative, the Sakhi Utpadan Samiti, established in August 2021, is a women-owned and women-led social enterprise that is transforming the lives of rural women in Rajasthan.

Launched as part of Hindustan Zinc’s flagship CSR programme Sakhi, this committee has organised more than 30,000 women into more than 2,000 Self-Help Groups (SHGs), empowering them with financial independence. Collectively, these SHGs have saved Rs 18.8 crore and availed loans worth over Rs 100.6 crore, significantly boosting the economic strength of thousands of women.

Indira Meena’s Story – From Javar to Self-Reliance

Indira Meena, from Jawar village near Udaipur, is associated with the savory snack unit. Sharing her experience, she said:
"The snack unit near my home has been a true blessing. Every day, I eagerly look forward to coming here, working with my fellow sisters, and learning the art of making delicious snacks. Our products are made with pure ingredients, cold-pressed oils, and in-house spices. Today, I stand proud and independent, supporting my son’s education and managing my home. All the women I work with feel like sisters — our bond makes us all stronger."

Sakhi Products Gain Popularity Among Consumers

To prioritise income generation for the Sakhi groups, Hindustan Zinc has facilitated local, state, and national market linkages so that Sakhi products can directly reach customers. Sakhi Utpadan Samiti operates under two main brands:

1. Daichi – Offers pure, chemical-free food products like ghee, pickles, cold-pressed oils, spices, and snacks made with traditional methods and locally-sourced ingredients.

2. Upaya – Creates comfortable, affordable and stylish garments using traditional Rajasthani hand-block printing and natural dyes, including designer clothing, bags, and home décor — gaining growing popularity among consumers.

Creating Livelihoods with Dignity

Sakhi Utpadan Samiti is committed to providing sustainable livelihood opportunities to rural women, enabling them to earn with dignity. Many women, who had never worked outside their homes before, have now become role models in their families and communities. Through hard work and dedication, they are breaking social barriers and inspiring others to dream big.

Currently, there are 14 production units (eight textile, six food-based) operating in Rajasthan and Uttarakhand, employing more than 200 women. Additionally, 100+ Business Sakhis are working as rural sales ambassadors, earning extra income by selling handmade products in nearby villages and towns. In FY 2024–25, these Business Sakhis collectively earned Rs 39.5 lakh, while Sakhi Utpadan Samiti recorded a revenue of Rs 2.31 crore, indicating a positive impact on women’s livelihoods.

Hindustan Zinc’s Role in Building Women Entrepreneurs

Hindustan Zinc has played a vital role in integrating rural women into the mainstream by helping them become entrepreneurs. Over the past seven years, under its social responsibility programmes, it has organised SHGs and provided women with interest- and need-based training—helping them create their unique identity in society. As a result, women associated with this initiative now exhibit remarkable confidence.

Direct Market Access

In 2023, Sakhi Utpadan Samiti launched its first online marketplace, Hearts with Fingers, connecting rural women and farmers directly with customers who value authentic, handmade products. This platform is helping expand market reach for rural enterprises.

Last year, the Daichi brand launched on Amazon with great success. Its Gauyam cow ghee earned the "Amazon’s Choice" badge, and the mango pickle became a bestseller. Some Daichi products are now available via subscriptions. With further rollouts planned on Flipkart, ONDC, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, Sakhi Utpadan Samiti is creating new opportunities for rural women entrepreneurs and bringing authentic, handmade products to national markets.

Sakhi Utpadan Samiti’s Units

• In Moonga Kheda, Chittorgarh, an oil pressing unit is operational, ensuring control over raw material for pickle and snack production, reducing costs, and meeting market demand.

• A honey processing unit has been set up in Rudrapur, Uttarakhand, to meet the growing demand for quality honey. Women are also receiving crochet training here.

• A sewing training center has been established in Railmagra, Dariba, where more than 30 women are being trained in garment making.

• A bar and millet biscuit production unit in Dariba is providing income and sales opportunities to more than 100 women.

• A block printing training and production centre is being set up in Kayad to preserve and promote traditional art forms while expanding the Upaya brand nationwide.