SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday felicitated 32 talented recipients of the Kashmir Women’s Organization (KWO) Fellowship during a ceremony at Raj Bhavan, Srinagar.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor hailed the fellows as symbols of Jammu Kashmir’s ongoing transformation toward a future built on self-confidence, equal opportunities and dignity for all.
He lauded the efforts of Fida Firdous and all members of Kashmir Women’s Organization for creating a robust platform where Nari Shakti from the region could move forward confidently, embrace their talent and ideas, and play a meaningful role in building a bright future for Jammu Kashmir.
“In a short span, Kashmir Women’s Organization has earned the distinction of becoming a powerful hub of hope, trust, and positive change. This fellowship program is a tangible realization of collaborative and shared responsibility.
By challenging deeply entrenched stereotypes, these fellows have redefined what is possible. They have paved a new path for future generations and their contributions would serve as a foundation of inspiration, confidence, and guidance for years to come,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor paid homage to historical icons such as Rani Didda, Kota Rani, Lal Ded, Habba Khatoon and Mata Rupa Bhawani, who he said had shaped the consciousness of Jammu Kashmir. He added that women of JK have always scaled the highest peaks of Nari Shakti.
Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for empowering women of Jammu Kashmir by granting them due rights and eliminating discrimination, the LG outlined a progressive vision for the Union Territory powered by women leaders.
“Women’s empowerment is key to a Viksit JK; their progress ensures the progress of society. I envision a Jammu Kashmir where women lead in academia, industry, social organizations and governance, shaping policies, driving entrepreneurship, and enriching our culture through art and literature.
I envision a Jammu Kashmir where every young girl grows up believing that her dreams are valuable, her voice is powerful, and her future holds limitless possibilities,” LG Sinha said.
He expressed confidence that the KWO fellowship program will propagate the core principle that women deserve equal and dignified participation across all social, cultural, economic and political spheres.
“When women progress, society progresses; when women lead, the nation scales new heights; and when women realize their dreams, the entire world becomes more just, more compassionate, and more prosperous,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also emphasized the need to address the rising challenge of substance abuse among women. He advised the fellows to conduct a comprehensive, region-specific analysis to identify its root causes to strengthen rehabilitation frameworks and support those affected by drug addiction.
The Lieutenant Governor commended the guides who mentored the fellows throughout the program and hoped that the dedication of KWO members would serve as a catalyst for positive change in the lives of countless women.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also released a book titled “Panchayati Raj Institutions and Municipal Council in India” written by Nazrul Islam.
Fida Firdous, President, Kashmir Writers Association, Darakshan Hassan Bhat, President, Kashmir Women’s Organization, members of KWA and KWO and senior officials attended the felicitation ceremony.
