CASE Construction Equipment, a brand of CNH, has launched Project Shilpi under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, aiming to equip economically disadvantaged youth with essential skills in the servicing and maintenance of backhoe loaders. This strategic initiative seeks to bridge the existing skill gap in the construction equipment industry by developing a certified talent pool of trained technicians.
Targeting unemployed youth from economically weaker sections, the project is tailored for ITI and diploma holders aged 18 and above who are unable to undertake long-term training due to financial or logistical challenges. With a pan-India focus, the initiative intends to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled manpower to support the growing needs of the industry.
“At CASE, we believe in enabling communities through skills that transform lives. Project Shilpi addresses a critical gap in the construction equipment industry by preparing youth with job-ready skills in backhoe loader servicing. Through this initiative, we aim to strengthen India’s technical workforce while empowering individuals to achieve socio-economic independence,” said Kavita Sah, India CSR Head, CNH.
Project Shilpi employs a structured three-month blended training model. It commences with a boot camp, followed by 26 hour of online theoretical sessions and 520 hour of practical, hands-on training. The program also includes regular industry interfaces to provide real-world exposure and outreach initiatives such as rural campaigns and community engagement to mobilize suitable candidates.
On successful completion, participants receive a third-party external assessment certification, gaining competencies in operating, maintaining, and servicing backhoe loaders. In addition, the training covers safety standards, environmental compliance, and customer interaction skills.
The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s Skill India Mission and contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Through Project Shilpi, CASE reinforces its long-standing commitment to community empowerment and technical skill development in the construction equipment sector.