Vishwakarma University Hosts NCW’s YASHODA AI 2.0 to Empower SHG Women with AI Skills

Kondhwa, 27th July 2026: Vishwakarma University hosted the YASHODA AI 2.0 programme, an initiative by the National Commission for Women (NCW), at its Kondhwa campus to promote artificial intelligence (AI) literacy and digital empowerment among women, particularly members of self-help groups (SHGs).

The programme brought together SHG women, academicians, educators, professionals, and representatives from the social sector for interactive sessions on the growing role of AI in entrepreneurship, education, and economic development. Organised as part of NCW’s nationwide campaign, the initiative aims to equip women with the knowledge and confidence to participate in India’s rapidly evolving digital economy and contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat.

Addressing the gathering, NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar said AI literacy is no longer optional but an essential life skill. She encouraged women entrepreneurs to adopt digital tools, e-commerce platforms, and AI technologies to market their products, expand their businesses, and achieve financial independence.

“Digital empowerment is essential for women entrepreneurs. I encourage self-help group women to leverage e-commerce platforms and AI to market, advertise and promote their products, expand their businesses, achieve economic self-reliance, and contribute to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP),” Rahatkar said.

Speaking at the event, Prof. Dr. Wasudeo Gade, Vice President of Vishwakarma University, highlighted the university’s commitment to women’s empowerment. He noted that women make up 63% of the university’s faculty, while five of its nine academic disciplines are headed by women.

“Artificial intelligence is unavoidable, and women should embrace it as a tool for growth and development. Vishwakarma University is committed to training self-help groups in marketing, advertising, and quality assurance to help them expand their reach and improve their livelihoods,” Prof. Gade said.

A technical session led by experts from the Mahavir Foundation focused on the use of digital tools and online marketplaces to help women entrepreneurs strengthen and scale their businesses through technology.

The event also witnessed the presence of Ramavatar Singh, Deputy Director, National Commission for Women; Shrikant Kharat, Project Director, District Rural Development Agency (DRDA), Zilla Parishad, Pune; and Prof. Dr. Lalit Wadhwa, Director, Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), Vishwakarma University.

Through the YASHODA AI 2.0 programme, Vishwakarma University reaffirmed its commitment to fostering innovation, digital inclusion, and community engagement while supporting national efforts to build an AI-literate and digitally empowered society.