Apollo Tyres, in partnership with the French Institute in India (IFI), recognized the achievements of eight women entrepreneurs through Project Navya, an initiative by the Apollo Tyres Foundation (ATF) aimed at empowering women in rural communities. The recognition event, held on March 4, 2025, was attended by Dr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India, and Onkar Kanwar, Chairman of Apollo Tyres Ltd.
Launched in 2019, the #EkNaam initiative has been highlighting individuals who have made meaningful contributions to their communities. In its six editions, Apollo Tyres has celebrated more than 40 women entrepreneurs who have played a significant role in economic and social development. This year, women from Kerala, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu were honored for their work in diverse sectors including agriculture, dairy farming, tailoring, waste management, and food production.
The honored entrepreneurs include Leena Krishnakumar and Raji K K from Kerala, who have focused on improving financial stability for women through community-driven initiatives. Nilamben Rameshbhai Parmar and Snehalben Sanjaybhai Parmar from Gujarat have made notable contributions to agriculture and food processing while mentoring other women to create income-generating opportunities. From Maharashtra, Shabira Abubhai Shaikh and Vaishali Pravin Shelar have empowered women in the dairy and tailoring industries, respectively. Additionally, Sanchita Daphal from Maharashtra has established a dairy cooperative, and G Devi from Tamil Nadu has pioneered waste management practices in her village.
Dr Thierry Mathou praised the collaboration between Apollo Tyres and IFI, highlighting the Apollo Tyres Foundation’s dedication to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Paralympian bronze medalist Simran Sharma and Padma Shree awardee Dulari Devi were also honored during the event by Onkar Kanwar.
Onkar Kanwar emphasized Apollo Tyres’ ongoing commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs and fostering community development. He outlined the foundation’s efforts to enhance economic opportunities for rural women, with over 24,000 women benefiting from government livelihood schemes as of December 2024.
The French Institute in India, supported by Apollo Tyres, is also focused on promoting gender equality and diversity through its educational initiatives. One of its flagship programs, ‘French for All, French for a Better Future,’ introduces French language courses in government schools. Currently, the program is running in 38 schools in Delhi, reaching around 4,000 students. The partnership also includes diversity awareness activities in schools, culminating in a wall art project.
