New Delhi, Dec 11: The national level upskilling programme named iTrain on Wheels receives the “Best Up-skilling Initiative of India” accolade at the India Business Award 2025 in New Delhi. The programme, implemented by Smile Foundation and supported by Berger Paint India Ltd., is operational in 443 districts (51 aspirational) across 25 states and three UTs of India.

So far, more than 3.14 lakh paint applicators (household painters) have been trained free of cost, resulting in increased income and development of entrepreneurship.

The project is in alignment with (Sustainable Development Goals) SDGs 5, 8 and 10.

Berger Paints India Limited and Smile Foundation came together in 2021 to implement iTrain on Wheels programme across India, free of cost. The iTrain on Wheels programme has significantly enhanced the skills of semi-skilled and unskilled paint applicators (painters), achieving a key programme objective. Post-training, the paint applicators apply their newfound skills to their work, resulting in improved finishes and overall quality. This skill upliftment has translated into increased work, client satisfaction, referrals, business expansion, and income growth.

The upskilling sessions are delivered at the doorsteps or near the workplaces of the paint applicators. They are free to use any paint, tools and designs of any make and brand. Everything in this programme is free of cost.

Each iTrain mobile unit is equipped with audio-visual tools, practical training booths and mechanized equipment to make the painting process more efficient, quicker, cleaner and safer. The faculty consists of certified and experienced trainers with industry knowledge and technical competency. All the mobile units have so far travelled 1.2 million kilometers.

Courses cover theoretical and practical knowledge as well as entrepreneurial and soft skills. Trainees receive both theoretical and practical training in new techniques along with the use of mechanized equipment. Special modules on Wood Polishing, Decorative Painting, and Body Language are also taught during the trainings.

Additionally, the programme’s focus on entrepreneurial skills development highlights its commitment to not only enhancing painters’ technical abilities but also equipping them with the business acumen needed to succeed as independent contractors or business owners.

An independent Impact assessment survey had recently been commissioned on this project.  Some 76.30 per cent of respondents revealed a higher expenditure on utility bills like electricity and water reflecting a greater capacity to cover essential expenses. As many as 72.61 per cent of the respondents admitted to an increase in spending on nutritious food and vegetables, indicating a prioritization of health and well-being thus maintaining a comfortable standard of living. A significant 74.13 per cent of respondents have purchased a vehicle, thus, reflecting their financial stability and an increase in the ability to realize their aspiration with the change in the income growth after completion of the iTrain programme, there has been a corresponding increase in multiple household and lifestyle expenditure areas.