SRINAGAR: Over 7 lakh women in Jammu and Kashmir have joined 80,000 self-help groups (SHGs) under the UMEED scheme, marking significant progress in women’s empowerment and financial independence in the region. This initiative, launched in 2019 under the Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission (JKRLM), focuses on uplifting women from marginalised sections by involving them in sustainable livelihood ventures.
According to a senior JKRLM official, the UMEED scheme remains a cornerstone of the government’s efforts to empower women. “These SHGs provide essential support, enabling women to establish livelihood units and achieve financial independence,” the official said.
One such inspiring example is Sabiya Jan from North Kashmir, who has transformed her boutique business while training hundreds of young women in her area. “The scheme empowers us to support our families and take charge of our lives,” Sabiya said.
JKRLM’s outreach spans 125 blocks across Jammu and Kashmir, aiming to benefit 66 percent of the rural population. (KINS)
