Srinagar, August 9,2026: The Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM)-UMEED has emerged as a key driver of livelihood generation, financial inclusion and women’s empowerment across rural Jammu and Kashmir, enabling thousands of women to move towards economic self-reliance and contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of their communities
Through the UMEED scheme, rural women are being encouraged to form and strengthen Self-Help Groups (SHGs), access financial services, develop entrepreneurial skills and establish sustainable livelihood activities. The initiative has created new avenues for women to participate in income-generating activities while strengthening their role in household and community-level decision-making.
A major focus of JKRLM-UMEED is promoting financial inclusion among rural women. SHG members are being connected with formal banking and credit facilities, helping them access financial resources and invest in small enterprises and livelihood activities. This has enabled women to gradually reduce their dependence on informal sources of credit and build stronger financial foundations.
The mission has also supported women engaged in diverse sectors, including agriculture, livestock, handicrafts, food processing, tailoring, dairy farming and other rural enterprises. Such initiatives are helping women convert their skills and local resources into sustainable sources of income.
Beyond financial gains, UMEED has contributed to greater social empowerment and confidence among rural women. Through collective action and SHG networks, women are increasingly participating in community activities, improving their access to government schemes and becoming more aware of opportunities available for their economic and social advancement.
The programme’s emphasis on capacity building, entrepreneurship and market linkages is further helping rural women expand their enterprises and improve the value of their products. By creating opportunities for women to become producers, entrepreneurs and independent earners, JKRLM-UMEED is contributing to the creation of stronger and more resilient rural communities.
The growing participation of women in livelihood activities also has a wider economic impact, as increased household incomes contribute to improved living standards and greater investment in education, healthcare and other essential needs.
With its focus on women-led development, sustainable livelihoods and inclusive economic growth, JKRLM-UMEED continues to play an important role in transforming the rural economy of Jammu and Kashmir and creating pathways towards greater self-reliance for women.
