Pune – Sona Comstar has expanded its industry-led skilling initiative with the launch of the new Sona Comstar–Tata STRIVE Skill Development Centre in Chakan, Pune. Inaugurated by Ms Priya Kapur, Non-Executive Director of Sona Comstar and Chairperson of its CSR Committee, the new centre will equip young people with practical, industry-relevant skills that improve employability and support sustainable livelihoods.
Located in one of India’s leading automotive manufacturing hubs, the Chakan centre has been established to align skill development with local industry demand. During FY 2026–27, it will train 220 unemployed youth in CNC Operations, Electrician and Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI), equipping them with industry-relevant skills for employment across manufacturing and services.
The new centre builds on the success of the Sona Comstar–Tata STRIVE Skill Development Centre in Chennai, which has trained 623 young people, achieved an approximately 80% placement rate, and recorded around 42% female participation. The Chakan centre seeks to replicate this proven model by connecting skill development with local industry demand and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Speaking during the inauguration, Ms Priya Kapur said, “Every young person I met had a different story to tell. Different struggles, different ambitions, but the same dream of building a better future. It was inspiring to hear their journeys and learn what brought them here.
Skilling is about much more than employability. It equips young people with the confidence, dignity and practical skills to build better livelihoods. Partnerships like the one between Sona Comstar and Tata STRIVE demonstrate how industry can play a meaningful role in preparing young people for the jobs of tomorrow. I hope the Chakan centre becomes a launchpad for hundreds of such journeys.”
During her visit, Ms Kapur interacted with trainees and faculty, learning about their aspirations and the challenges they face in entering the workforce. The conversations underscored the importance of making industry-relevant skill development accessible to young people and creating opportunities closer to where employment demand exists.
