2nd project for Tamil Nadu
Coimbatore; 18 February 2026: Smile Foundation and Berger Paints India Ltd. launched iTrain on Wheels project in Coimbatore. This is the second such project for Tamil Nadu. Earlier this week, an iTrain on Wheels project was launched in Mysuru, also the second such initiative in Karnataka.
Berger Paints India Limited and Smile Foundation came together in 2021 to implement iTrain on Wheels programme. This upskilling initiative is aimed at honing the skills of unorganized paint applicators (household painters) by training them in contemporary painting techniques to enhance their employability and earning opportunities. These training facilities are equal opportunity gender sensitive spaces, which encourage women painter to take part in this upskilling process and lead the change in their life. The paint applicators receive the skilling and training free of cost across 26 states and three UTs of India.
iTrain on Wheels initiative has so far trained 3.15 lakh paint applicators free of cost across the country. The programme is at present operational across 26 states and three UTs of India, covering 503 districts, including 51 aspirational districts.
Each iTrain on Wheels mobile unit is equipped with audio-visual tools, practical training booths and mechanized equipment to demonstrate the painting process more efficient, quicker, cleaner and safer manner. Certified and experienced trainers with industry knowledge and technical competency are deployed with each project.
The courses cover theoretical and practical training in new techniques along with the use of mechanized equipment as well as entrepreneurial and soft skills. Special modules on wood polishing, decorative painting, and body language are also taught during the trainings.
The entire training is free of cost. The painters receive these modern training near their home or workplace.
Mr. Abhijit Roy, MD & CEO of Berger Paints India Ltd. said, “By empowering paint applicators, especially in small towns and villages, we are investing in their future and helping them build a better life both for themselves and their families. We are proud to be a part of their journey towards a brighter tomorrow.”
Mr. Santanu Mishra, Co-founder & Executive Trustee of Smile Foundation said, “Skill development plays a crucial role in the nation’s economic and social advancement. India faces a pressing need for skilled workers. We are thankful to Berger Paints India Ltd for its trust and the partnership for this unique CSR initiative which is gradually spreading across India.”
Earlier this month, iTrain on Wheels initiative owned the Business Insight Social Entrepreneurship Project of the Year award for the impactful work being carried out across India. The initiative has also been awarded by Indian Chamber of Commerce, Bengal Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Indian Business Award, Bharat CSR & Sustainability Award, and ImpactRoots Award in the last two years for its transformative and impactful contribution to the society.
An independent study on the programme shows that apart from gain in technological knowledge and confidence building, there is a potential improvement in the lifestyle of the beneficiaries. As many as 73 per cent of the respondents saw an increase in spending on vegetables and other nutritional food. This indicates a prioritization of health and well-being of the entire family and a comfortable standard of living. A significant 74 per cent of respondents have also purchased a vehicle each. It reflects 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 also been a corresponding increase in multiple expenditure areas related to family members.
