Udaipur, July 15: Hindustan Zinc‘s ‘Zinc Skill’ program is playing a crucial role in bridging rural Rajasthan to global career opportunities. The initiative has successfully provided employment and self-reliance to over 10,000 youths, with a notable 45% female participation.
One inspiring success story is that of Deepika from the small village of Bhamaniya Khet near Udaipur. Despite limited resources, she underwent training in Food and Beverage Services under the ‘Zinc Skill’ program, which transformed her life. Today, she works with Marella Cruises in Spain, gaining not only employment but also the confidence to dream big.
Deepika’s journey reflects the experiences of thousands whose lives have been positively impacted by the ‘Zinc Skill’ program, launched in 2019. With an investment of ₹26 crores, the program has trained over 10,000 rural and tribal youths in Rajasthan and Uttarakhand, emphasizing women’s participation.
In the fiscal year 2025-26, more than 2,600 youths received training, with 420 of them supported by organizations like NABARD, JK Cement, and Bajaj Finserv. A significant achievement this year was a batch dedicated to differently-abled youths, where all hearing-impaired trainees secured employment with prestigious hotel groups such as Taj Fateh Prakash and Radisson Blu.
With an impressive placement rate of 83% and an average salary increase of 16% post-training, ‘Zinc Skill’ is not just about providing jobs; it empowers youths economically and fosters self-reliance. Alumni of the program now work with renowned companies like Tata Consultancy Services, Foxconn, and Honda.
Another inspiring story is that of Wasif, who, despite being born deaf, began his career at Ramada Hotel after joining the hospitality training program. He now works as a Guest Service Associate at Taj Aravali and actively mentors other hearing-impaired youths, guiding them towards employment.
The ‘Zinc Skill’ program extends beyond job placement. In collaboration with the Udaipur police department, it trains youths to connect them with mainstream employment, exemplifying community responsibility and effective partnerships.
Operated with the support of Ambuja Foundation and Tata Strive, the program runs through skill centers in Debari, Dariba, Jawar, Chittorgarh, Agucha, and Kayad in Rajasthan, and previously in Pantnagar, Uttarakhand. It has received four district-level awards from the Rajasthan government for its exceptional contribution to youth skill development and employment generation.
‘Zinc Skill’ is part of Hindustan Zinc’s broader vision to empower communities through education, employment, and equal opportunities. On the occasion of World Youth Skills Day, success stories like those of Deepika and Wasif demonstrate that when youths are given the right opportunities and guidance, they not only change their futures but also play a vital role in societal development.