NTPC Limited’s Vindhyachal Super Thermal Power Station has inaugurated the seventh edition of its flagship Girl Empowerment Mission (GEM) 2026, reaffirming its commitment to holistic development of rural girl children.
Launched at Umang Bhawan, the month-long residential programme aims to nurture confidence, education, and life skills among participants. Since its inception in 2018, GEM has positively impacted 736 girls from nearby districts and aligns closely with the Government of India’s Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative.
Transformative Initiative Gains Momentum
The programme was inaugurated by Gaurav Benal, Collector & District Magistrate, Singrauli, in the presence of KM Shiyaz, Superintendent of Police, and Saumya Mishra, along with senior NTPC officials led by Sanjib Kumar Saha.
The event witnessed participation from CISF representatives, school principals, and media, highlighting a unified commitment toward social transformation through girl child empowerment.
Welcoming the dignitaries, Ruma De Sharma, Head of HR (Vindhyachal), noted that GEM, which began as a pilot initiative in the Vindhya region, has now been replicated across 50+ NTPC stations nationwide, reflecting its impactful outcomes.
Focus on Holistic Development
Addressing the gathering, Sanjib Kumar Saha emphasized that the initiative has significantly transformed participants through a blend of:
- Academic enrichment
- Life skills training
- Physical fitness
- Personality development
Assistant Collector Saumya Mishra lauded NTPC’s efforts, while SP KM Shiyaz stressed the importance of breaking gender stereotypes and empowering girls to overcome societal barriers.
In his keynote address, Gaurav Benal encouraged participants to dream big and make full use of the programme to shape their future.
Cultural Showcase and Community Engagement
The inaugural ceremony featured:
- A soulful Ganesh Vandana by DPS students
- Inspiring testimonials from GEM alumni
- Screening of a short film on GEM 2025 and teaser for GEM 2026
- Cultural performances centered on girl empowerment
The event concluded with felicitation of performers, a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony to welcome the new batch, and a vote of thanks delivered by Pranav Verma, AGM (HR).
Strengthening Inclusive Development
Through initiatives like GEM, NTPC Vindhyachal continues to position itself as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable community development, going beyond power generation to create meaningful social impact.
