The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), operating under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), has unveiled a collaborative initiative with Coca-Cola India. This partnership aims to bolster the retail sector in Odisha and Uttar Pradesh through the ‘Super Power Retailer Programme’, as part of the Skill India Mission. The initial phase of the programme is being tested in Odisha, according to an official release.

This programme represents a pivotal achievement in Skill India’s mission to empower and advance retailers, emphasising their growth and development. The initiative’s primary focus is to enhance retailers’ capabilities within the contemporary retail sector. It concentrates on delivering training to small and micro retailers, equipping them with the essential knowledge and skills to comprehend consumer behavior and preferences more effectively, the release mentioned.

The overarching goal is to furnish retailers with the necessary skills, tools, and techniques to thrive within the ever-evolving retail landscape while disseminating knowledge of best practices. By providing traditional retailers with the requisite skill set, this initiative seeks to enhance their profitability and fortify their business acumen, as per the release.

“A transformative revolution is underway within India’s skill development ecosystem, driven by an unwavering commitment to empower the country’s youth and its ambitious workforce through skill acquisition, enhancement, and adaptation. With Coca-Cola India aligning its efforts with Skill India Digital, I hold a steadfast belief that both our aspiring and established retailers will receive top-notch training to strengthen their capacity and capability,” Ved Mani Tiwari, COO, NSDC, said.

Within the programme, participants will engage in a 14-hour training regimen, featuring a two-hour in-class session and 12 hours of digital instruction. This training approach combines traditional classroom sessions with the convenience of an app-based Learning Management System (LMS) accessible via mobile and handheld devices for online modules. The training modules will be hosted on the Skill India Digital platform (SID), and the instruction will employ a multimedia strategy, incorporating videos, texts, and guidance from experienced trainers to facilitate learning, the release stated.

I am confident that the initiative will play a pivotal role in strengthening India’s economy by skilling, reskilling, and upskilling the retailers by paving the way for their growth. The programme aims to provide 14 hours of quality retail training through the Skill India Digital Portal. The retailers will be trained on how to plan and implement business strategies and utilize the vast opportunities extended by digital platforms,” Dharmendra Pradhan, union minister, Education and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, said.