Bandipora: The National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) continues to transform lives in the remote Gurez valley of Bandipora district, where women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) recently showcased their enterprises through stalls featuring traditional crafts, handmade products and innovative livelihood activities.
Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, visited the stalls and lauded the enterprise and creativity of the tribal women. She said that empowering women through SHGs not only supports local livelihoods but also strengthens cultural identity. Chib assured full administrative support to expand their ventures, help them access wider markets and provide skill development opportunities.
“Empowering tribal women through SHGs not only ensures economic stability but also strengthens the cultural identity of the region,” Chib said while interacting with the women entrepreneurs.
Shahina, a member of an SHG, expressed gratitude to NRLM for creating livelihood opportunities in the valley. “Before joining the SHG, we had very limited options to support our families. Now, through training and collective work, we are earning and contributing to our households. It has given us confidence and hope for a better future,” she said.
Another SHG member, Rukhsana, said the mission had changed the outlook of women in her village. “For years, we relied only on seasonal work and had no real source of income. Most of us never thought we could run businesses or make products that people outside our valley would value. With NRLM, we are now creating things that not only help us earn but also represent our culture. My children see me as an entrepreneur now, and this inspires me to work harder,” she said.
The event highlighted the growing impact of NRLM in Gurez, where SHGs are evolving into a strong force for change. From traditional handicrafts to modern small enterprises, these groups are paving the way for economic independence and social empowerment, shaping a more self-reliant future for their communities. [KNT]
