Kathua, June 17,2026- In a significant step towards strengthening women-led entrepreneurship and rural livelihoods, UMEED, the flagship rural livelihood programme of Jammu & Kashmir, inaugurated a new sales outlet at Dayalachak in Kathua district.
The newly established outlet will serve as a dedicated platform for rural women entrepreneurs to showcase, market, and sell products manufactured by Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across the Union Territory. The initiative aims to provide better market access, enhance income opportunities, and promote sustainable livelihoods for women associated with the programme.
The sales outlet features a wide range of locally produced items, including handicrafts, handloom products, processed foods, spices, pickles, and other value-added goods prepared by SHG members. By connecting producers directly with consumers, the outlet is expected to boost sales and encourage women to expand their enterprises.
Officials said the initiative reflects the growing success of the UMEED programme in transforming rural communities through women’s collective action and economic empowerment. The programme has enabled thousands of women to move from household-based activities to successful micro-enterprises and business ventures.
With more than 45,000 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) functioning across Jammu and Kashmir, UMEED has emerged as a powerful vehicle for financial inclusion, skill development, entrepreneurship, and social empowerment. The network of SHGs has helped rural women gain access to credit, training, market linkages, and livelihood opportunities.
The inauguration of the Dayalachak sales outlet marks another milestone in the journey of women-led development in Jammu and Kashmir. It highlights the government’s commitment to strengthening rural economies and creating sustainable income-generating opportunities for women.
The initiative is expected to further encourage rural women entrepreneurs to scale up their businesses, increase household incomes, and contribute to the socio-economic growth of the region.
