In 2013, we ladies of Budgam came to know about the UMEED scheme and Self Help Groups. A beneficiary of UMEED scheme adds further, we joined the scheme and were asked to form a team of 10 people. We started working together and doing embroidery work. We opened our bank accounts. Now, we are earning and also able to save some money. This scheme is beneficial for the ladies. Earlier, nobody used to care for us. After joining the Self Help Group, we ladies are able to run our own business and now people ask for us.
The UMEED programme comes under the Jammu and Kashmir State Rural Livelihood Mission (JKSRLM). It is a Centre sponsored scheme which encourages women to be self-dependent and self-sufficient. It encourages women to do small savings so that their Self Help Groups (SHGs) eventually become bankable at reduced rate of interests.
– News Desk, Kashmir Ahead