Pune, October, 2025 – Godrej Enterprises Group, under its flagship CSR initiative Disha, in partnership with Queen Mary’s Technical Institute (QMTI), inaugurated the Home Appliances Repair and Maintenance Lab at Pune. This initiative is designed to support specially-abled soldiers from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Paramilitary Forces by equipping them with technical skills that enable sustainable livelihoods.
The state-of-the-art lab will provide hands-on training to over 200 war wounded soldiers over the next three years, preparing them as certified Home Appliances Repair and Maintenance Technicians. The project is envisioned as a self-sustaining skill centre that not only trains but also provides placement support and handholding assistance for at least three months post-training. This commitment will help ensure that these specially abled soldiers transition smoothly into civilian livelihoods while continuing to receive mentorship and guidance.
Speaking at the inauguration, Harpreet Kaur, CHRO, Godrej Enterprises Group, said, “This initiative empowers our specially abled soldiers that open avenues for livelihoods and economic independence. With rising adoption of CNC technology across industries near Pune and limited access to such training in it is, we saw a clear opportunity to bridge this critical skills gap. By combining specialised technical training with hands-on experience, we are equipping these soldiers to build sustainable careers in high-demand sectors. Our partnership with QMTI is a powerful step toward building a truly inclusive society and reflects Godrej’s commitment to unlocking value for those who have served our nation.”
Col. Dr. Vasant Ballewar, Dean, Queen Mary Technical Institute said, “The programme aims to foster economic empowerment, restore dignity, and promote inclusive growth by enabling participants to earn a sustainable income and support their families with self-reliance. This partnership with Godrej Enterprises Group strengthens that commitment by ensuring that our brave soldiers, who have given so much to the nation, can look forward to a dignified and independent future.”
This initiative is a part of GEG’s flagship CSR initiative Disha, which aims to skill India’s youth as per current and emerging industry demands. Since its inception in 2011, Project Disha has spread over 18 Indian states and impacted over 2,00,000 young individuals, equipping them with practical skills and industry exposure to enhance their employability and long-term career prospects. In 2024-25 alone, the company trained 9046 candidates, far surpassing its initial goal of training 8400 candidates. 45% of these candidates are now employed.
