Farmwatt, HCL Foundation join hands to train youth in Agri-Tech

In a novel move, Farmwatt Innovation has launched a long-term training and capacity-building initiative focused on empowering rural youth with job-ready skills in agricultural waste management and green entrepreneurship. The initiative is undertaken in collaboration with the HCL Foundation and with technical support from Maschio Gaspardo.

As part of this initiative, a two-day driver training program was conducted on April 22 and 23, 2025, with 25 participants from Uttar Pradesh. This is just the beginning—the program aims to train over 200 youth in the coming months across different regions.

The training included both theoretical and practical modules. Participants were introduced to balers and rakers—key machines used for collecting and processing crop residues. They also learned about Farmwatt’s mission of building a circular economy around agri-waste and promoting sustainable, community-based livelihoods.

The hands-on sessions were conducted by expert trainers from Maschio Gaspardo, who provided in-depth guidance on machine operation, maintenance, removal and fitment of machine aggregates, and safe driving practices in both road and field conditions (in crops like wheat and paddy).

Farmwatt maintains that the initiative supports local job creation, reduces migration to urban areas, and builds a skilled rural workforce capable of managing advanced agricultural waste machinery. It is aligned with national goals for renewable energy, rural innovation and environmental sustainability.

Key representatives present at the training included Avinash Bisen (AGM, HCL), Dhiraj Kumar (HCL), Deependra Singh Pal (TCC Manager, Farmwatt), Subham Parate (Deputy Manager, Maschio Gaspardo) and others.

Farmwatt said that feedback from the participants was very encouraging, with many showing interest in future opportunities. Select trainees may be offered employment or contract roles in ongoing projects of Farmwatt across Uttar Pradesh and other states.

The firms believe that this collaboration marks a significant step toward building a skilled, self-reliant, and environmentally responsible rural workforce—one that uplifts communities while protecting the planet.