Sneha Asha Foundation Launches ‘Jeevan Kaushalya’ Life Skills Program for Tribal Students in Palghar

The project was inaugurated at S.K. Agro Tourism in Vikramgad, with approximately 400 students in attendance. Renowned tribal folk artist and Padma Shri awardee Bhiklya Ladkya Dhinda Baba graced the occasion as chief guest, alongside Siddhi Chauhan Jaiswal, Founder and President of Sneh Asha Foundation. The event also celebrated Palghar’s rich tribal heritage, with a traditional Tarpa performance by Bhiklya Ladkya Dhinda Baba and folk dances and indigenous art forms presented by students from schools across the district. These performances highlighted the importance of preserving cultural traditions and local identity while expanding access to modern education and opportunities.

Speaking on the occasion, Padma Shri awardee Bhiklya Ladkya Dhinda Baba emphasized the importance of education and guidance in empowering children from tribal communities. He said:

“Children from tribal communities have immense potential. With the right education, guidance and opportunities, they can shape their own futures and become self-reliant. What they need is the right support to help them achieve this.”

As an integral part of the Jeevan Kaushalya project, 55 bicycles were distributed to schoolgirls, recognising that access to education and opportunities begins with the ability to reach them. In Palghar’s tribal belt, distance can often become a barrier to continued learning, skill development and future aspirations. By making mobility easier, the project aims to help girls access schools, colleges, training centers and future employment opportunities with greater independence. The distribution reflects a fundamental belief behind Jeevan Kaushalya: empowering children with life skills also means addressing the practical barriers that may prevent them from putting those skills to use.

Learning Skills That Shape a Lifetime

While conventional education builds academic knowledge, students also need practical skills to navigate everyday challenges and make informed choices about their future.

Recognizing this need, Jeevan Kaushalya brings together five key areas of learning: financial literacy, functional English, life skills, soft skills and career readiness.

Students from Classes V to X will learn the fundamentals of saving and managing money, effective communication, teamwork, leadership, decision-making and problem-solving.

The project will incorporate interactive discussions, games, group activities and practical exercises to encourage active participation and build confidence among students.

Students will also receive guidance on higher education, vocational training, skill-based courses and career opportunities. Recognizing the changing demands of the modern world, they will be introduced to digital skills and the fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The project will cover Karhe and Kurje residential schools in Vikramgad taluka, and Dabhosa and Vinwal residential schools in Jawhar taluka, with the involvement of teachers, parents, school authorities and local communities.

“A Child’s Potential Should Never Be Limited by Their Circumstances”: Siddhi Jaiswal

Speaking about the initiative, Siddhi Chauhan Jaiswal, Founder and President of Sneh Asha Foundation, said:

“Every child has dreams, curiosity and the ability to achieve something meaningful. But opportunity is not equally available to everyone. A child growing up in a tribal village should have the same chance to understand technology, learn financial skills, speak with confidence and explore career possibilities as a child studying in a metropolitan city.

Through Jeevan Kaushalya, we want to bring these opportunities closer to children who need them. Education must do more than help students pass examinations. It should prepare them to make decisions, overcome challenges and build independent, fulfilling lives. That is the change we hope to contribute to.”

Connecting with Students at the Grassroots

As part of her visit to Palghar, Siddhi Chauhan Jaiswal visited Kurje Residential School, where she interacted with students, the headmistress and teachers.

During the visit, she gained insights into the students’ educational experiences, aspirations and challenges, and discussed the support being extended through the Foundation’s initiatives in education, digital literacy, scholarships and skill development.

She also encouraged greater participation from individuals and organizations in initiatives supporting the holistic development of children from underserved communities.

An Educational Mission That Has Reached Over 16,500 Students

The launch of Jeevan Kaushalya marks another step in Sneh Asha Foundation’s ongoing efforts to expand access to meaningful educational opportunities.

Through its ongoing and newly launched educational initiatives, including Jeevan Kaushalya in Palghar, the Foundation’s overall reach extends to more than 16,500 students. Its work includes establishing computer laboratories in 54 schools across Mumbai, helping students gain access to digital learning and technology.

The Foundation has also awarded scholarships to 72 students across four batches, supporting their continued education.

With its expansion into life skills, financial literacy, English communication and career guidance in Palghar, the Foundation is working towards an educational approach that prepares children not only for academic success but also for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

About Sneh Asha Foundation

Sneh Asha Foundation is a Mumbai-based non-profit organization founded by Siddhi Jaiswal and Sneha Jaiswal. The Foundation works to improve access to educational opportunities for children from underserved communities through projects focused on digital education, scholarships, life skills, financial literacy and career development.

With an overall educational reach of more than 16,500 students, including those covered under its newly launched Jeevan Kaushalya project, the Foundation continues to create opportunities that help children develop confidence, practical skills and the ability to pursue their aspirations.

About Siddhi Chauhan Jaiswal

Siddhi Chauhan Jaiswal is the Founder and President of Sneh Asha Foundation. Her work focuses on expanding educational opportunities for children from underserved communities, with particular emphasis on digital literacy, scholarships, life skills and career readiness.

Through the Foundation, she advocates an approach to education that combines academic learning with practical knowledge, confidence-building and opportunities for long-term personal development.

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