The Hindu Business Line : Travelling tools

As the accent is on enhancing manpower skills the world over, the Power Tools Division of Bosch has decided to expand its `Bosch Vaahan' work — a mobile initiative to enhance the skills and livelihood of self-employed rural artisans in India. The artisans are assisted using a combination of product demonstrations and training with financial support. Launched in 2006 in partnership with Canara Bank and Andhra Bank, the first Bosch Vaahan travelled about 16,000 km to reach out to artisans in different parts of south India. "Demonstration through Vaahan has helped 1,850 artisans involved in carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and auto servicing work," says Navin Paul, Business Head, Bosch Power Tools India.

The programme has now been extended to north India. A mobile unit containing demonstration equipment as well as bank personnel will travel to select Indian locations over the next three months. "We are excited to announce the flag-off of our second Bosch Vaahan," said Paul at the flag-off ceremony in Bangalore. "Rural artisans are hampered by lack of access to the latest equipment and technologies, and financial support. Through Bosch Vaahan, we aim to reach out to these artisans who have a rich cultural heritage and ensure that their talent is not just preserved, but enhanced through appropriate tools." This year, Bosch has tied up with five more banks — Indian Overseas Bank, Indian Bank, UCO Bank, State Bank of Indore and Syndicate Bank.

The van will reach Delhi and travel towards northern Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Jammu before returning to Delhi. The second phase will cover eastern and western Uttar Pradesh. "We aim to reach 4,000 artisans in north India," says Paul.

The van will be equipped with woodworking, construction, metalworking and cordless tools for artisans, plumbers and electricians. The applications range from drilling to tightening/loosening, cutting, grinding, planing, sanding and so on.

"After the live demonstration and training, artisans can forward their application to the local bank official through the Bosch dealer. They have to submit the Performa invoice from the Bosch dealer, photographs and residence proof along with the loan application. Bank officials will verify and then process their application," says Paul. No collateral/security is required, he adds. The maximum loan limit is Rs 1 lakh and current interest rate is around 11 per cent (on reducing balance).

The company also offers after-service, says Paul. "We offer on-the-job training, support them with after-sales service and also send soft reminders to ensure they pay the EMI in time to the bank."

The company hopes to make the project a self-sustaining initiative. "We propose to launch two Bosch Vaahans for the East and West regions before December 2007," says Paul.

More Stories on : Arts & Crafts | Society & Development | Rural Development

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