Castrol India Launches First Skilling Centre In Kolkata For Youth Development

Castrol India Ltd. inaugurated its inaugural skill development center in Kolkata on October 1, 2026, as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, Ujjwal Kal. The center, situated at the Smile Foundation STeP Centre in Santoshpur, aims to equip underprivileged youth with industry-relevant skills and connect them with employment opportunities.

The training curriculum encompasses digital technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI), retail, beauty and wellness, communication, digital literacy, and preparation for the workforce. Upon completion, participants receive recognized certificates and receive placement assistance to facilitate job placement or self-employment. Ujjwal Kal, Castrol India's flagship CSR program, was initiated in 2021, focusing on youth upskilling, women empowerment, and community development through skill enhancement.

As per Saugata Basuray, Managing Director of Castrol India Limited, the company recognizes that talent is abundant, but opportunities are not accessible to all. The Kolkata center aims to bridge this gap by providing individuals with essential skills, boosting their confidence, and offering support to help them build a better future.

In 2025, Ujjwal Kal initiatives positively impacted approximately 5,000 people through education, skill development, and healthcare programs, with around 85% of participants being young women. The program seeks to achieve a 50-55% graduate employment rate, with a majority pursuing direct employment or self-employment. Established over a century ago, Castrol India Limited, a lubricant manufacturer, operates three blending plants and distributes its products through over 1.5 lakh retail outlets across India.