Rajasthan, March 08, 2026: Bindi International marked International Women’s Day by celebrating the graduation of ten rural women solar trainees under the theme “Give to Gain,” highlighting how investing in women creates lasting social, economic, and environmental impact. The event reflected Bindi’s belief that when women prosper, communities prosper, and the planet prospers.
The graduates: five from rural Rajasthan and five from rural Nagaland successfully completed a five-month training programme covering solar technology installation and maintenance, digital and financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and personal empowerment. The programme equips women not only with technical skills but also with the confidence and leadership capacity to take up solar technical roles and run enterprises in their communities, expanding access to clean energy in underserved villages.
The ceremony began with the trainees jointly lighting a solar lamp, symbolising their transition from learners to leaders. Two trainees addressed the gathering, reflecting on their journeys into a field traditionally dominated by men. Shweta from Rajasthan shared how the training helped her overcome hesitation in handling tools and installing solar systems, giving her the confidence to work independently. Nashi from Nagaland spoke about the transformation she experienced through the programme and how it strengthened her belief that women can lead, earn, and make meaningful contributions to their communities.
The event also featured a Women’s Journey Circle, where trainees reflected on their experiences of overcoming self-doubt and social barriers. In a powerful role play, the trainees depicted their own journeys from the initial apprehension when they first arrived for training at Bindi, to the challenges they faced, the hope that sustained them, and the support they found along the way. The performance also highlighted their aspirations for families and community members to support their work and share responsibilities as they step into leadership roles.
The celebration included brief cultural performances by trainees from Rajasthan and Nagaland, reflecting the diversity and spirit of the graduating cohort.
During the graduation ceremony, trainees received certificates and solar toolkits, pledging to bring light, dignity, and opportunity to their villages. In a message shared during the event, Gloria Jonathan, M&E and Strategic Head at Bindi International, noted, “Women’s empowerment is one of the most powerful drivers of social and economic progress. This Women’s Day, we celebrate the resilience and leadership of women everywhere while reaffirming our mission to break barriers and build systems where women and girls can reach their full potential.”
The event concluded with participants sharing one way they would support women’s empowerment, reflecting the spirit of “Give to Gain”, the belief that collective support can unlock leadership, opportunity, and progress for entire communities.
Bindi International works across rural India to advance women’s health, education, climate leadership, and green entrepreneurship through integrated programmes that empower women as community leaders and changemakers.
