Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory is witnessing a paradigmatic change as an increasing number of women entrepreneurs spearhead diverse business ventures across the Union Territory.
Breaking through traditional norms, these women are not only setting new benchmarks but also contributing significantly to the economic landscape, buoyed by robust support and financial assistance from the UT government.
The administration of Jammu and Kashmir has introduced a slew of schemes and incentives aimed at fostering female entrepreneurship, providing a conducive platform for enterprising women to flourish and bolster the region’s economic development.
Among these initiatives, the ‘UMEED’ scheme stands out as a resounding success.
Launched by the JK Rural Livelihood Mission (JKRLM), UMEED seeks to uplift communities at the grassroots level by harnessing local resources for production, thereby generating employment opportunities.
Through the formation of numerous Self-Help Groups (SHGs), the program has empowered women to undergo entrepreneurship training and engage in the production of various goods such as jams, pickles, sauces, and chutneys.
Furthermore, the Mission has facilitated the establishment of processing and preservation units in their homes, coupled with subsidies on raw materials, interest-free loans, and government-backed marketing support, thus igniting a spirit of entrepreneurship among rural women.
The commendable efforts of these women entrepreneurs have garnered recognition through platforms like fairs and exhibitions held across the region and major Indian cities, showcasing their skills and products. Moreover, initiatives like the ‘SAATH’ scheme have provided additional impetus to their endeavors, further enhancing their visibility and impact.
The government’s commitment to female empowerment is underscored by special scholarship schemes such as ‘Pragati’ and ‘Saksham’, designed to nurture exceptional female scholars.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has emphasized the pivotal role of women empowerment in societal progress, advocating for skill training and reskilling programs to unleash their full potential.
In Jammu, women entrepreneurs have also been integrated into the UMEED scheme, benefiting from training and soft loans.
The ‘one district one product’ approach has been instrumental in promoting women-led enterprises, particularly in priority sectors like horticulture and handicrafts. Moreover, the government’s focus on skill development in remote areas has empowered women with artisanal skills such as embroidery, crewel, tailoring, and stitching, enabling them to establish sustainable livelihoods.
Beyond economic endeavors, the government is actively promoting women’s participation in sports, hobbies, and creative pursuits for their holistic well-being. Initiatives aimed at enhancing women’s representation in governance and business sectors underscore the commitment towards fostering a gender-inclusive ecosystem.
The journey of women entrepreneurs in the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory epitomizes resilience, determination, and the transformative impact of government support.
Their endeavors not only reshape the economic landscape but also epitomize the journey towards gender equality and empowerment.
