Kupwara, Jammu & Kashmir, April 21, 2025 – Women in Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission in Kupwara District are driving transformative change through innovative livelihood generation and sustainable practices. Operating under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), JKRLM has empowered over 91,445 SHGs across Jammu and Kashmir, impacting nearly 797,805 households. In Kupwara, a border district with unique challenges, SHG women are leading efforts in economic empowerment and community development.
These women have ventured into agriculture, handicrafts, and dairy farming, supported by schemes like Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana and Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme. By adopting eco-friendly practices such as organic farming and water conservation, they are ensuring sustainable livelihoods while preserving the region’s ecosystem. Their products, from face masks crafted during the pandemic to Kashmiri handicrafts, are now reaching national markets through platforms like Amazon Saheli and eSaras, boosting incomes and showcasing local talent.
Beyond economics, SHG women are fostering social change in Kupwara. By taking on leadership roles, they are challenging gender norms and improving access to healthcare, education, and nutrition through alignment with Mission Shakti and Mission Poshan 2.0. The Ministry of Rural Development recently praised their “exceptional efforts” on X, highlighting their role in creating sustainable lifestyles and inspiring community-wide development, including support for local schools and health camps.
Challenges persist, including limited market access, security concerns, and ecological risks from infrastructure projects, as noted in a report by The Hindu. JKRLM is countering these by promoting digital literacy, e-commerce integration, and sustainable development advocacy. With government support, as emphasized by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, these women are building a resilient future.
The SHG women of Kupwara exemplify how grassroots efforts can drive empowerment and sustainability, offering a model for rural India’s development. For more details, visit the JKRLM website or follow Ministry of Rural Development updates.
