In a major boost to women empowerment and traditional craftsmanship, a six-month skill development programme has been launched for the first time in the Darhal area of Rajouri under the National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP).
The initiative aims to promote design development in Kashmiri shawls and fabrics while creating livelihood opportunities for local women. Under the programme, 30 unemployed women are receiving training in cloth designing and embroidery to enhance their skills in traditional handloom craftsmanship.
Officials said all raw materials are being provided free of cost under the government-sponsored scheme, ensuring that trainees can fully benefit from the programme without financial burden. The initiative is expected to strengthen self-employment opportunities and encourage women to become financially independent through traditional crafts.
The programme is also being seen as an important step towards preserving and promoting the rich heritage of Kashmiri handloom and embroidery work. Trainers are focusing on modern design techniques while maintaining the authenticity of traditional craftsmanship to improve market opportunities for locally made products.
Local residents and participants have welcomed the initiative, saying it will not only empower women economically but also help revive traditional skills in the region.
