Nippon Paint, the number one paint manufacturer in Asia, is pleased to announce its collaboration for ‘Project Puthri’. This initiative aimed at empowering underprivileged girl students hailing from Tamil Nadu. It is designed to provide them with life Skill Training along with education and mentorship. In the process of empowering underprivileged girls, Nippon Paint India aims to ensure 80 percent of all PUTHRI scholars obtain white-collar jobs across sectors.

The primary goal of Project Puthri is to develop a cadre of women professionals from the bottom of the socio-economic pyramid. It’s India’s first ever-developmental project that seeks to create Career Intentionality among underprivileged girl students. The project officially commenced with a grand inauguration ceremony held at the Government Girls Higher Secondary School in Walajabad, Kancheepuram, with 100 students in attendance.

This project is dedicated to identifying underprivileged girls with high potential, aged 13 to 18, currently enrolled in classes 8 to 12 in Corporation and Government Schools. These exceptional young scholars will be nurtured as ‘Puthri scholars’ and will receive comprehensive support and guidance over a five-year period.

During their tenure as Puthri scholars, these young girls will undergo comprehensive training across eight vital dimensions crucial for their overall development. These dimensions encompass Health, Hygiene, Financial Literacy, Entrepreneurship, Nutrition, Analytics, Self-Defense, and Digital Literacy. By imparting knowledge and skills in these areas, Project Puthri aims to empower these girls to not only excel academically but also personally and professionally, thus enabling them to build a brighter future for themselves. To ensure the success of these scholars, Project Puthri has enlisted the support of life coaches and mentors who will serve as dedicated guides and trusted confidants throughout this five-year journey.

In addition to the project's inauguration, the event also marked the unveiling of the captivating Puthri Anthem. The project was brought to life with an exciting Nippon Blobby Jigsaw puzzle for participants followed by the Puthri Pledge.

Mahesh Anand, President - Decorative Division, Nippon Paint, commented, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Avtar Human Capital Trust for Project Puthri. Education and mentorship are pivotal in molding the future of young individuals. The 3E’s—Education, Empowerment, and Engagement—have always been a priority for Nippon Paint. Educating & empowering a girl child, will inspire an entire generation. We are dedicated to enabling these young girl scholars to excel in their educational endeavors. We are confident that through this initiative, we can create a significant and positive influence in their lives. Qualified mentors will assist them in navigating their educational path and enable them to reach their maximum potential.”