Strengthening its community engagement in Tamil Nadu’s key manufacturing corridor, Samsung India today announced a new skill development initiative for women in the Sriperumbudur region, aimed at enhancing livelihood opportunities and supporting local economic participation.

Samsung has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bal Raksha Bharat (Save the Children, India) to roll out a structured vocational training programme for 200 women from Santhavellore and Sirumangadu villages in Kanchipuram district.

The 12-week programme, scheduled between April and September 2026, will provide hands-on training in professional tailoring, followed by government-recognised certification. Participants will also receive sewing machines upon completion, enabling them to pursue income-generating opportunities and micro-entrepreneurship.

“Tamil Nadu has consistently been a leader in industrial development and skill creation. At Samsung, we are proud to contribute to this vision by enabling women in the Sriperumbudur region with skills that can drive self-reliance and entrepreneurship. Our focus is on creating long-term, sustainable impact at the grassroots, aligned with the state’s broader goals of inclusive economic growth,” said SH Yoon, President, Samsung Chennai Plant.

The programme is part of Samsung’s broader CSR commitment in India and reflects its continued focus on inclusive development in regions where it operates. Sriperumbudur, one of Tamil Nadu’s fastest-growing industrial hubs, has seen significant transformation over the years, and initiatives like these aim to ensure that local communities benefit from this growth.

By investing in grassroots skilling and women’s empowerment, Samsung is contributing to Tamil Nadu’s broader vision of inclusive industrial development and strengthening the socio-economic fabric of communities around its manufacturing ecosystem. Marking 30 years in India, Samsung continues to strengthen its commitment to advancing education and digital inclusion.

In the industrial belt of Sriperumbudur — a region that has transformed into one of Tamil Nadu’s most important manufacturing corridors — Samsung’s Chennai plant is quietly shaping another story of progress. Workers who began on the shopfloor have now stepped into leadership roles over time.

As Samsung completes 30 years in India, its long-term presence in Tamil Nadu reflects not only manufacturing scale, but sustained investment in people.

Several employees who joined as entry-level technicians have progressed into specialist and supervisory roles across procurement, utilities and production — demonstrating how structured training, internal mobility and mentorship are enabling upward career movement within the plant.

Rajaram S, Thamizh Selvi K, Karthick N and V Prabasan from Samsung Chennai Plant in Sriperumbudur

Growth Rooted in Opportunity

For Karthick N, an associate in the Indirect Procurement Team, the journey began as a Production Employee in the AC plant, working at a basic technician level. Like many early-career professionals, repetition sometimes brought moments of boredom. But instead of standing still, Karthick chose movement — learning new processes, exploring different responsibilities, and steadily reshaping his path.

“Every experience I learned made me progress,” he said. Structured learning interventions like CLAS and CDP training programmes became defining moments, helping transform consistency into confidence. Today, he speaks not just of career progression, but of purpose. “I feel proud to work for Samsung. My work has meaning.”

That sentiment echoes across the plant.

At Samsung Chennai plant, the Associate designation represents a significant career milestone earned through years of experience, skill-building, and formal assessment. Employees typically progress through multiple operator and technician levels over 12 to 15 years, gaining deep technical expertise and operational understanding.

Those who further invest in higher education can qualify for structured programmes such as Career Development Programme (CDP) and Career Level Assessment (CLAS).

At the heart of many such journeys lies reinvention.

Thamizh Selvi K, Associate in System Stock management Team, joined Samsung Chennai in 2007, fresh out of higher secondary education. For her, the job represented more than employment — it marked “the turning point” for her life and family.

Her early years in the PBA team were defined by skill-building and multi-stage exposure. Over nearly 15 years, she evolved from line operations to line management, guided by leaders who recognised both effort and potential. The Internal Job Posting (IJP) opportunity eventually opened the door to R&D — a long-held aspiration.

Even when the transition involved temporary financial adjustments during GET training, she chose belief over hesitation. “I saw it as the beginning of achieving my dream.”

Today, holding an MBA earned while working, she reflects on a journey built on perseverance, continuous learning, and organisational support. “If you have talent, commitment and a supportive work environment, opportunities will come.”

Similarly, when Rajaram S, Associate in Utility – Mechanical & Civil Team joined as a Technician, the transition into a new environment brought its own learning curve. What stands out most in his memory is not the challenge, but the support. “The guidance from managers and the team gave me confidence,” he said.

Over time, his responsibilities expanded — from basic duties to planning, coordination, and team leadership. Continuous pivotal assignments proved to be breakthroughs, allowing Rajaram to demonstrate his capabilities on a larger stage. “These opportunities helped me grow technically and personally. Today, I make decisions with greater confidence.”

Growth, here, is rarely accidental.

Internal Mobility as a Pathway

For V Prabasan, Associate, Indirect Procurement, who joined almost two decades ago, in the CRT TV line, the plant initially felt like “a small family.” In those early years, with fewer teams and a single plant, collaboration came naturally. “Everyone felt like close friends,” he recalls.

What continues to shape his journey is the discipline embedded in the workplace culture. “Samsung’s standards brought more punctuality, discipline, and clarity to my life goals.” Encouraged to move beyond manual processes, Prabasan went on to develop an automated HS Code Management System, simplifying workflows within import purchase operations — a reminder that innovation is not confined to R&D labs.

Across these stories runs a common thread — not dramatic leaps, but steady progression enabled by training, mentorship, and a culture that encourages employees to stretch beyond defined roles.

Professional growth here is deeply personal.

For Karthick, it means security and happiness for his family. For Rajaram, maturity and confidence in decision-making. For Prabasan, discipline and clarity of vision. For Thamizh Selvi K, not just career advancement, but becoming an example for the next generation.

Their advice to newcomers is strikingly similar: stay curious, stay consistent, keep learning, prioritise safety, and trust the journey.

Because at Samsung Chennai plant, careers are not merely built.  They are grown — from within.

Before sunrise each day, buses roll out across villages and townships around Kancheepuram district, carrying hundreds of women to one of Tamil Nadu’s largest electronics manufacturing hubs — the Chennai plant of Samsung India.

On the shop floor, amid assembly lines and testing units, these women are doing more than building devices. They are building futures.

This year marks three decades of Samsung’s presence in India — a journey often measured in products, innovation and exports. But inside its Chennai facility, another milestone is visible: the growing number of women shaping the factory floor and redefining what manufacturing looks like in Tamil Nadu.

For Kavya, part of the employee relations team, the plant is a space of growth. With a background in psychology, she works closely on employee well-being initiatives.

“Here, I’ve learned and evolved,” she says. “Colleagues become friends. The workplace feels like family.”

For Sangeeta, who has spent around a decade at the plant, the turning point was transportation. Long commutes once meant stress and safety concerns. Company-arranged door-to-door buses changed that.

“It gave me confidence,” she says. “When travel is safe, you can focus on your work.”

[L-R] Sangeetha and Rekha from Samsung Chennai Plant have spent over a decade there.

Across Tamil Nadu’s industrial corridors, safe commuting has quietly become a key enabler for women entering manufacturing roles.

Then there is Rekha from the Visual Display line who has been with Samsung Plant in Chennai for last 18 years. Her motivation is simple: her mother.

“I want to give her everything she ever wished for,” she says.

Two decades of stable employment has allowed her to support her family with dignity — a sentiment echoed by many first-generation industrial workers in the region.

As Tamil Nadu strengthens its position as an electronics manufacturing powerhouse, the image of the factory floor is evolving. In Sriperumbudur, women are present all across production, quality control and operations — contributing not just to output, but to communities.

Three decades into its India journey, the company’s progress in Chennai is reflected not only in scale, but in stories of independence, safety and self-belief — one shift at a time.

At Samsung Chennai plant, the workday recently took on a cheerful new twist. Amidst buzzing production lines and changing shifts, laughter and cheers echoed around the newly inaugurated Multi-Sports Arena. The occasion?

The much-anticipated Gully Premier League—a cricket tournament designed not just to bring sports into the factory but to spark joy, nostalgia, and togetherness among workers.

More than just a game, this initiative is part of Samsung’s larger mission to build a Great Place to Work, celebrating the spirit of collaboration and play across all shifts and teams.

Cricket, but Make it Gully Style

Forget stadiums and white kits. Here, cricket is played the gully way—with deft flicks and swinging deliveries, hand-made scoreboards, enthusiastic commentary from colleagues, and rules that changed with the wind and umpire’s sense of humour. The format was simple and inclusive:

Each shift could nominate one team of six players

Larger departments could nominate more teams

All shift employees were encouraged to participate

The response was electrifying—48 teams, 72 league matches, and 288 employees who left their work shoes at the door and stepped into sneakers and spirit.

“I haven’t played cricket since school. But the moment I picked up the bat, it all came rushing back,” said Karthik from Washing Machine Line. “The crowd, the cheers, the chaos—it felt like home.”

Making Room for Everyone

What made this league even more special was the focus on the sense of togetherness. Alongside the main matches, there are dedicated categories being planned for all lines—ensuring everyone felt welcomed on the pitch.

Gopi, from Refrigerator Line, said, “It wasn’t just about who hit the most runs or took the best catch. It was about seeing a usually quiet colleague take on captaincy, or someone from admin stepping in as a last-minute substitute and bowling the match-winning over.”

New Grounds, New Bonds

The Gully League also marked the inauguration of the new Multi-Sports Arena, a vibrant space that now stands as a symbol of wellness, fun, and shared purpose. From laughter-filled team huddles to last-ball thrillers, the Arena quickly became the new favourite hangout for employees.

“For me, the best part was the crowd. People from all shifts came to watch, cheer, and even bring snacks,” said Sivabalan from the Smart Facility Group (SFG). One team even had cheer slogans printed for fun. We all forgot the Chennai heat and just had a blast.”

Bringing Samsung Values to Life

Events like the Gully Premier League aren’t just recreational—they reflect Samsung’s core values: People, Excellence, Change, Integrity, and Co-Prosperity. They encourage employees to lead with energy, grow through collaboration, and build bonds beyond the workstation.

“It’s easy to say we’re one team. But on the field, you feel it,” said Srinath from R&D team. “We high-fived, strategized, laughed—and went back to work feeling lighter.”

And the Game Goes On

With 24 teams moving into the knockout stage, anticipation is building up for the quarterfinals, semifinals, and the much-awaited grand finale. And while one team will eventually lift the trophy, everyone walks away with memories, smiles, and a stronger sense of belonging.

So, here’s to the gully spirit that brings us closer—and many more innings of fun, teamwork, and friendly banter at Samsung!

(from L-R) Vadivelan, Senthil Kumar, Prakash, Sathish A, Chitra K, Ravichandran, and Suresh P

At Samsung’s Chennai factory, leadership isn’t confined to titles or offices—it lives on the shop floor. It’s reflected in everyday actions by members of the Samsung Employee Welfare Federation (SEWF), who are quietly powering meaningful change through dialogue, support, and teamwork.

Sathish A, Suresh P, Chitra K, Prakash, Vadivelan, Senthil Kumar, Ravichandran, and S Karmegam form the core of SEWF. Their behind-the-scenes efforts have been instrumental in bridging communication between workers and management, especially during periods of operational change.

Through consistent engagement and honest feedback, these representatives played a key role in driving recent wage increases—an outcome that reflects not just performance, but a shared commitment to fairness and collaboration.

“Being on the committee changed my perspective,” shared Senthil Kumar. “It’s not just about raising concerns—it’s about solving problems together. That mindset has strengthened our whole team.”

On the floor, they defuse tensions, amplify quieter voices, and ensure no one is left unheard. Their steady presence builds trust, boosts morale, and helps create a workplace where people feel valued.

“We may not make speeches, but we show up for each other,” said Vadivelan. “When things improve for everyone, it feels like a collective win.”

For Chitra K, the youngest member, it’s about helping others grow. “When someone who’s always been silent finally shares an idea—you know they feel safe. That’s when change starts.”

SEWF is more than a committee—it’s a catalyst for a positive, people-first culture. Its members are trained to listen, mediate, and ensure communication flows across the factory floor.

“Sometimes, people just need to know they’re not alone,” said Ravichandran. “I try to be that person.”

As Samsung continues to foster a culture of care and collaboration, the work of these quiet leaders reminds us that true leadership doesn’t always stand in the spotlight. More often, it stands right beside you—listening, guiding, and lifting others forward.

Samsung’s Chennai Plant is bustling with optimism as workers return after a long absence. In an address to the workforce, SH Yoon, Managing Director, Samsung Chennai Plant, welcomed the employees with a heartfelt message, acknowledging the difficulties faced during this time and reinforcing the company’s vision for a positive and happy workplace.

“I welcome you after a 38-day absence. I was deeply hurt by the situation. Do you remember my vision when I first came to the Chennai Plant—to build a happy and positive workplace? The current circumstances have been painful, and my heart is heavy,” Yoon expressed, speaking directly to the workers.

Yoon also assured the workforce that their concerns and grievances have been heard and will be addressed step by step, staying true to Samsung’s commitment to a “People First” approach.

“During this time, we’ve had interactions with your colleagues. They’ve shared your major concerns, and I assure you, everything will be resolved step by step,” Yoon added.

The atmosphere at the Chennai Plant is now one of relief and optimism. Workers were seen reuniting with their colleagues, sharing smiles, and resuming their roles with a renewed sense of belonging. Many expressed joy at being back together.

“It feels like a family again,” said a senior technician at the plant. “I’m happy to see my colleagues back. Now it feels like we’re ready to move forward together.”

Another technician echoed this sentiment: “We’ve always been more than just co-workers. Seeing everyone back here feels like a reunion. I’m grateful that our concerns are being addressed, and I’m optimistic about the future.”

The Chennai Plant has always prided itself on its strong sense of community, and now, the spirit of togetherness is stronger than ever. With the promise of continuous dialogue and a commitment to building a healthier workplace, the team is ready to work together toward a brighter future.

“Our workforce is the backbone of our success”

In a heartwarming event, the Samsung Sriperumbudur plant near Chennai, celebrated Family Day with the workers’ families.

The occasion brought together the entire Samsung workforce and their loved ones in an expression of unity. With a full day of festivities planned, the event was an unforgettable showcase of Samsung’s commitment to its people and the rich cultural diversity that defines its workplace.

“Our workforce is the backbone of our success, and today, we celebrate not just our workers, but their families as well. The strength of Samsung lies in the strong bond we share with each other, and days like these remind us that we are not just a company but a family,” said SH Yoon, Managing Director, Samsung Chennai Plant, expressing his heartfelt appreciation in his welcome speech.

The day kicked off with a spirited Chenda Melam performance, a traditional percussion ensemble from Kerala, setting the tone with its powerful, rhythmic beats. As the resonant sound of the chenda drums filled the air, workers and their families were greeted with refreshments, laying the groundwork for a day that blended work and family in a meaningful celebration.

One of the highlights of the day was a surprise video where families welcomed the workers, creating emotional moments for many. Balamuni, the wife of a long-time factory employee, said, “This day made us feel like we are part of the Samsung family. My husband always speaks about how much he values working here, and we got to see firsthand the sense of community that exists within the company. The factory tour was especially exciting for the children—seeing where their father works filled them with pride.”

Families were treated to a guided tour of the factory, offering a glimpse into the state-of-the-art facilities where their loved ones work each day. The tour, followed by a lunch gathering, fostered conversations between families, workers, and management, further deepening the sense of camaraderie.

The event also featured two lively photo booth sessions, ensuring that everyone took home memories of the day. In the second half of the day, a fun fashion show took center stage, with workers and their families showcasing their creativity. As cheers echoed through the plant, the joy and energy were palpable.

Divakar, Operator, PBA & SMD at plant, shared his thoughts: “The Family Day event made us feel valued. It’s not every day that our families get to understand what we do and see where we spend most of our time. Today, they got to experience a part of our lives that is usually separate, and that means a lot to me.”

The day concluded with prize distribution, group photos, and a lucky draw, but the lasting takeaway was Samsung’s commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and pride within its workforce.
The event was a testament to Samsung’s people-centric culture, where employees and their families are placed at the heart of the company’s success.

Building Long-Term Relationships

Samsung’s commitment to fostering long-term relationships with its suppliers has been pivotal in ensuring high-quality products and services. Many of these partnerships date back several years, founded on the principles of trust and collaboration.

Rikun Manufacturing and CJ Polytechnic are two major suppliers in the area which have been Samsung’s trusted suppliers for many years. Rikun is a Sriperumbudur-based manufacturing company that specializes in consumer electronics product design and manufacturing. Similarly, CJ Polytech is a manufacturing company based in Tamil Nadu that operates in producing metallic and non-metallic products.

“We started our manufacturing journey in 2018 and Samsung was our first customer. Samsung has always treated us as a partner rather than just a supplier. This has made all the difference. The regular feedback and opportunities for collaboration have helped us improve not only the quality of our products but also our operational efficiency,” said Pradeep Jagalan, Vice President, Business Development, Rikun Manufacturing.

Sriperumbudur has grown in scale since the early 2000s. “In 2008, around 2000 workers used to flock in for work in Sriperumbudur from other local areas but today more than 70000 workers here have jobs,” Pradeep recalled.

“We have learnt from Samsung, how to uplift our people with the right kind of upskilling. Samsung capitalizes on our strength as they understand us well. If Samsung was not there, Rikun wouldn’t exist,” he added.

Samsung’s approach emphasizes open communication, encouraging suppliers to innovate, improve, and provide feedback. By treating its suppliers as partners, Samsung ensures that both entities can focus on mutual growth and development.

Rikun Manufacturing Plant in Sriperumbudur

Driving Innovation through Collaboration

At the heart of Samsung’s partnerships with suppliers is a shared commitment to innovation. The Chennai factory, one of Samsung’s key manufacturing hubs, has worked closely with local businesses to introduce new technologies and processes that raise the bar for quality and efficiency.

Suppliers have benefited from Samsung’s resources, including access to cutting-edge technologies, training programmes, and a culture of continuous improvement. By sharing its expertise and resources, Samsung enables suppliers to enhance their capabilities, making the entire supply chain more agile and efficient.

Shakthi Vel, Plant Head, CJ Plolytechnic, puts it in perspective. “CJ Polytechnic started working with Samsung in 2010. The relationship since then has been flawless. Samsung’s focus on innovation challenges us to push the boundaries,” he said.

“They are always looking for new ways to improve, and they encourage us to do the same. These innovations not only help suppliers meet Samsung’s high standards but also enable them to compete more effectively in the wider market,” he added.

Growth and Expansion for Suppliers

Samsung’s suppliers have seen tangible growth as a result of their partnerships with the Chennai factory. Many local businesses have expanded their operations, invested in new technologies, and increased their workforce to meet the growing demand from Samsung.

“Working with Samsung has not just helped us grow enormously but also opened up new markets. We’ve been able to expand our production capacity many folds and the consistent demand from Samsung has given us the confidence to invest in new equipment and talent. We started with 20 employees and we have more than 350, all thanks to Samsung,” Shakthi said.

This growth is not limited to revenue; suppliers are also seeing improvements in operational efficiency, employee training, and product quality. These advances position Samsung’s partners as leaders in their respective industries, capable of competing on a global scale.

CJ Polytech Plant in Kanchipuram

Empowering Local Economies

Samsung’s commitment to working with local suppliers in Chennai has had a ripple effect that goes beyond the factory gates. By supporting local businesses, Samsung is helping to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and drive innovation in the region. This approach strengthens not only Samsung’s supply chain but also the local community, contributing to India’s overall economic development and ecosystem growth.

Through these partnerships, Samsung continues to set the benchmark for collaboration and innovation in the manufacturing sector, empowering its suppliers to grow alongside the company and cementing its position as a leader in the industry.

Praveen (left) and Selvan (right) taking a break around their favourite spot at Samsung’s Chennai Plant

At Samsung’s Chennai manufacturing plant, where state-of-the-art TVs, air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, and compressors are produced, the heartbeat of the facility is not just the hum of the machinery—it’s the lives of thousands of dedicated workers whose stories are interwoven with the company’s commitment to their well-being and growth.

The Chennai plant, one of Samsung’s largest in India, has long been known for fostering a worker-friendly environment. It provides continuous training, and numerous welfare programs, all designed to ensure the well-being and development of the workforce.

Employees with an impeccable attendance record get constant incentives, which motivates them to be more present at work. There are awards in four different categories to uplift the morale of employees who continuously thrive to give outstanding performance.

Empowerment through Opportunity

For over fourteen years, Tamil Selvan has been part of the Samsung family, starting his journey as a apprentice at the plant. Coming from a modest background, he recalls how joining Samsung was more than just a job—it was the start of a transformation.

Tamil Selvan: “At Samsung, it’s not just about doing a job—it’s about being heard, being valued, getting rewarded”

“Fourteen Years… It feels just like yesterday. It is not just about work, I have literally grown from a boy to a man here. Over time, with Samsung’s continuous support and opportunities for growth, I was able to change my life. I have supported my younger sibling’s education, helped with their marriage, got married myself, bought a house, and now I even own a car,” said Tamil Selvan, from the Plant’s Refrigerator divison.

Samsung has been dedicated to empowering its workers since the Chennai plant came into existence in 2007. With a focus on constant upskilling, Tamil Selvan steadily progressed from working on the line to being a Technical Operator.

“The recognition and trust I’ve received here have been incredible,” he adds. “It’s not just about doing a job—it’s about being heard, being valued, getting rewarded, and knowing you’re making a difference,” said Selvan.

A Commitment to Growth and Diversity

Praveen Singh, another long-standing worker at the Chennai plant, echoes Tamil’s sentiments, though his journey is shaped by a different set of challenges and aspirations. Born and raised in Tamil Nadu but with roots in North India, Praveen has always been motivated by the diversity of the workforce at Samsung.

Praveen Singh: “This feeling of being proud comes from the fact that I represent a brand that cares for me.”

“The fact that people from all over India work together here is something that fills me with pride,” said Praveen, who joined the plant in 2013 as a trainee.

“I’ve learned so much from my colleagues, not just about technology but about different cultures and perspectives. That’s something I don’t think I would have experienced anywhere else.”

For Praveen, who started as a trainee and is now an operator in the process innovation team, the opportunities to learn and grow have been crucial to his success.

“Samsung always encouraged me to learn. Over the years, I picked up Tamil, improved my English, and developed leadership skills that allowed me to move up the ranks,” he shared.

“Samsung doesn’t just invest in its products—they invest in us, their workers. I feel immensely proud when I leave home for work wearing my uniform. This feeling comes from the fact that I represent a brand that cares for me.”

Care, Health & Wellness as part of a People-first Culture

All workers at the plant have health insurance facilities for upto five family members. From day one of apprenticeship, the plant offers continuous training, mentorship, and development programs designed to help employees grow professionally. The comprehensive health care, flexible work arrangements, and the focus on work-life balance are all part of Samsung’s commitment to creating a people-first culture.

When Praveen’s mother needed knee surgery, the company’s comprehensive health policy ensured she received the best care available.

“Samsung not only supported me in getting her the best doctors, but they also regularly checked in on her recovery. It’s more than a workplace—it’s a family,” he shared.

Samsung’s broader ethos of prioritizing worker well-being and personal development have continuously supported the employees.

Wall art designed by a worker at Chennai Plant

“At Samsung, it’s not just about what we do but how we feel doing it,” Praveen explained. “The environment is supportive, and everyone is treated with respect, regardless of their position. That’s something you don’t find everywhere.”

Tamil agrees, noting how much his job at Samsung has changed his standing in society. “Being a part of Samsung has earned me respect, not only in my professional life but in my community,” he said.

“I’m proud of the work I do here. It’s not just a job—it’s a part of who I am.”

Samsung’s Chennai Plant at Sriperumbudur

A Future Built on Shared Success

As Samsung continues to push boundaries in technology, the true foundation of its success lies in the success stories of employees. Their journeys are testaments to the company’s commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive, and growth-driven workplace where employees are empowered to achieve their best—both at work and in their personal lives.

By investing in its workers, Samsung has created a workplace that doesn’t just manufacture world-class product but also builds futures, strengthens communities, and fosters loyalty.