Kathua, July 8,2026- In a remarkable example of women-led entrepreneurship and rural empowerment, women from the border village of Changi in Marheen, Kathua district, have launched an organic turmeric and spice grinding unit under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme, marking a first for the region.
Established with the support of the Department of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare, the initiative has enabled local women to move beyond traditional farming by cultivating, processing, grinding, and packaging organic turmeric and other spices. The venture has emerged as a successful self-help group model, creating sustainable livelihood opportunities while promoting value addition to locally grown produce.
The women entrepreneurs are producing high-quality organic spices using modern processing techniques and hygienic packaging, enhancing the market value of their products. The initiative not only provides a steady source of income but also encourages financial independence and strengthens the rural economy in the border area.
Officials said the project reflects the objectives of the ODOP scheme, which aims to identify and promote unique district-specific products, improve market access, and support micro-enterprises through capacity building and infrastructure development.
The success of the Changi women’s group is expected to inspire more rural and border communities to adopt value-added agricultural enterprises, contributing to employment generation, women empowerment, and sustainable agricultural growth in Jammu and Kashmir.
The initiative also showcases how government support, community participation, and local entrepreneurship can transform traditional farming into profitable enterprises, paving the way for greater self-reliance among rural women.
