In a significant move towards realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Skill India–Strong India” vision, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) launched the National Skilling Mission “ARISE” (All India Retailers Initiative for Skilling and Entrepreneurship) today. This initiative is a collaborative effort with Coca-Cola India and the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). The program was inaugurated by Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta, with MP Shri Praveen Khandelwal, CAIT Secretary General, overseeing the event. Key figures in attendance included senior government officials, trade representatives, Mr. Rahul Kumar from SLMG Beverages Pvt. Ltd., and Ms. Devyani Rajya Laxmi Rana, Vice President at Coca-Cola India & Southwest Asia.
During the launch, Chief Minister Gupta emphasized that this mission, spearheaded by MP Khandelwal, is a historic initiative aimed at empowering the retail sector to become skilled and self-reliant. She stated, “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi, this mission will provide direction and strength to millions of small traders and shopkeepers, who form the backbone of India’s economy.
The integration of skill development, digital empowerment, and entrepreneurship will not only fortify local businesses but also help achieve the dream of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).” Gupta further remarked on the potential that exists within the country, highlighting that channelizing traders’ capabilities through the Skill India Mission would foster individual business growth, enhance the national economy, and promote the Swadeshi movement. She congratulated CAIT, NSDC, and Coca-Cola India for this initiative that embodies the spirit of collective progress. Khandelwal described the skilling mission as a vital step towards advancing the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
The initiative aims to train and digitally empower 2.5 million kirana and retail traders across India, starting from Delhi and Uttar Pradesh before expanding to other states. He noted that this comprehensive mission reflects Modi’s vision to boost India’s workforce capabilities. The collaboration with CAIT, Coca-Cola India, and NSDC will equip local traders with practical business knowledge, digital tools, and entrepreneurial confidence. Khandelwal asserted, “A skilled and self-reliant trading community will drive India’s economic revolution from the grassroots level.” In alignment with the Digital India initiative, ARISE emphasizes modern retailing and business growth through digital and technological skills enhancement. The mission will educate traders on digital technology, financial management, consumer behavior, and market adaptability.
Additionally, it will incorporate Coca-Cola’s ‘Coke Buddy’ platform—an AI-driven digital tool aiding kirana store owners in demand forecasting, inventory management, and personalized consumer experiences. This digital integration aims to modernize India’s traditional retail landscape and improve competitiveness against larger retail chains. Ms. Rana expressed that India’s retailers and kirana store owners are not just commerce’s foundation but also community pillars. She noted Coca-Cola’s pride in partnering for this national mission, which promotes local entrepreneurship and digital growth, aligning with Modi’s ‘Skill India’ vision. She celebrated the resilience and spirit of the entrepreneurs sustaining India’s economic and cultural landscape.
Khandelwal concluded by stating that CAIT’s ARISE Mission is a significant step toward realizing a Viksit Bharat, with a core objective of making every trader skilled, capable, and self-reliant. ARISE aligns with the National Skill Development Mission and the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign, reinforcing the belief that empowering every trader leads to the realization of a developed India.