Our Shilai Centre in Patna stitches all kinds of ladies’ and children’s garments — designer blouses, petticoats, kurtis and salwars. It is a working shop and the training floor where new women learn the trade.

Selection is on merit. Every applicant sits an assessment based on the knowledge and skill she already has, so the business she receives is one she can genuinely run from day one.

On passing, the foundation funds a complete business set-up worth up to ₹2 lakh, with training and mentoring throughout. After three months of trading, 20% of profit returns to fund the next woman.