In a major push to strengthen India’s retail sector, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) on Thursday launched its National Skilling Mission “ARISE” in partnership with Coca-Cola India and with support from the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). The initiative aims to train and digitally empower 2.5 million small traders and kirana owners across the country.
The programme was inaugurated by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. MP and CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal presided over the launch, attended by senior government officials and industry representatives. Gupta called the initiative a “historic step” to empower small shopkeepers who she termed the backbone of the nation’s economy. “This mission will provide new strength to traders and help build a Viksit Bharat,” she said. Kolkata also welcomed the initiative, stating that digital tools and skill training will help local shopkeepers compete with organised retail chains. Retailers in the Burrabazar and Gariahat markets said modern training and AI-enabled systems could improve business planning and boost customer reach in the city’s fast-evolving retail landscape.
Khandelwal noted that the programme will begin in Delhi and Uttar Pradesh before expanding nationwide. The ARISE programme will include skilling in digital technology, financial literacy, consumer behaviour and use of Coca-Cola’s AI-powered “Coke Buddy” platform for efficient inventory and demand planning.