Set to transform rural India over the next six months
Taking a bold step towards women empowerment, Shoolini University has launched 'Pragati,' a dynamic initiative designed to transform rural women into confident entrepreneurs. Spearheaded by Deputy Director and Head of the Centre for Leadership Coaching (CLC) Payal Khanna, the program is supported by Chief Learning Officer Dr Ashoo Khosla as Program Advisor and Vice Chancellor Prof Atul Khosla as Program Patron.
Adding a powerful voice to the initiative, leadership development expert and corporate mentor Nirupama Subramanian, co-founder of Growing Leadership of Women (GLOW) and Founder-CEO of Powerfulife Solutions, highlighted the importance of structured mentorship. Known for her work with the Cherie Blair Foundation, she said, “Entrepreneurship is about breaking barriers. With the right guidance, these women will transform their lives and inspire change within their communities.
‘Pragati’ operates through a structured three-tier coaching model, with rural women participants called ‘Sakhis’, receiving guidance from ‘Sarthis’ (coaches) and ‘Sahyogis’ (student mentors). The initiative began on January 28 with an inaugural session welcoming seven ‘Sakhis’ from villages under the Sanhol Panchayat near the university. The participants engaged in a hybrid meeting with their mentors, marking the start of their entrepreneurial journey.
‘Pragati’, set to continue through July 2025, emphasises hands-on learning, regular participation, and real-world application to build a strong foundation for sustainable entrepreneurship. Over three months, the women will undergo six one-on-one coaching sessions designed to raise self-awareness, address barriers, and create practical solutions for business growth. Mentors will also provide ongoing support through monthly checkpoints and individual check-ins, ensuring continuous, personalised assistance.
Payal Khanna spoke at the launch about the program’s broader impact beyond business training. “Our rural women have always been the backbone of our society — nurturing families, preserving traditions, and facing challenges with resilience. Now is the time to recognise their potential, support their aspirations, and provide them with new opportunities to grow,” she said. She further stressed that Pragati is a program and a movement encouraging independence and self-reliance. “This is about more than just business. It’s about confidence, empowerment, and rewriting the narrative for rural women,” she added.
Reflecting on her experience, a participant, Aruna from Sanhol Panchayat, said, “At first, I was apprehensive about how everything would unfold. Taking the first step was the hardest part but led to the best outcome.”
“Through the 'Pragati' initiative, Shoolini University is set to transform rural India over the next six months. This will empower women and drive economic growth,” the CLC deputy director signed off.
Anshika Pandey
January 30, 2025