Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has wrapped up the 34th edition of its iCARE employee volunteer programme, focused this time on strengthening livelihood opportunities for rural women entrepreneurs. The activity, held at NSS Bhavan, Bangalore University, brought together employees and their families to support women-led self-help groups (SHGs) working in handmade natural products.
More than 250 volunteers took part in the drive, producing 1,000 natural soaps using eco-based ingredients. These soaps will help SHGs increase their inventory and meet rising market demand. In addition to volunteer support, TKM supplied soap moulds, packaging materials, utensils and other equipment to help the groups continue production independently and grow their micro-businesses.
Women-led SHGs such as Sreelakshmi Swasahaya Sanga and Basaveshwara Swami Mahila Swasahaya Sanga from Ramanagara district, Karnataka, are among the beneficiaries. Both groups currently manufacture herbal soaps and detergents and aim to expand their reach to nearby markets.
Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer and Senior Vice President, TKM, said, “The iCARE programme enables our employees to work directly with communities and share practical knowledge that helps people move towards financial stability. Supporting rural women entrepreneurs is an important step in building local self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.”
Drawing on Toyota’s process excellence, volunteers helped SHGs improve productivity by sharing basic production planning techniques, quality checks and resource management methods. These inputs are expected to enhance product consistency and help SHGs scale their enterprises.
The activity reinforces TKM’s long-term social development approach, which aligns with national priorities such as Viksit Bharat 2047, Skill India, and programmes promoting women-led economic growth. The company continues to collaborate with local administrations, grassroots organisations and community institutions across its six social focus areas: Education, Health & Hygiene, Environment, Skill Development, Road Safety and Disaster Relief.
