Self Help Groups provide sustainable livelihoods, skill dev opportunities to women, make them self-reliant

GANDERBAL: The UMEED NRLM (National Rural Livelihood Mission) scheme has emerged as a crucial avenue for empowering women in the remote areas of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal District, providing self-employment opportunities to thousands of women through the formation of Self Help Groups (SHGs).
Currently, around 2,570 Self Help Groups are operational in Ganderbal district, with over 21,183 women members finding sustainable means of livelihood through these groups. Educated women members of SHGs are also being offered various roles such as cluster coordinators, CDEOs, community mobilizers, Bank Sakhi, Digi Pay Sakhi, Krishi Sakhi, and Pashu Sakhi to serve their fellow members, thereby expanding their horizons and enhancing their skills.
Javid Ahmad Parray, Block Programme Manager, highlighted the significant role of Krishi Sakhi and Pashu Sakhi women in rural self-reliance under the NRLM. These women serve as vital help workers in remote areas, offering first aid services to animals and receiving regular training from the Animal Husbandry Department to stay updated on new methods of animal care.
Samia Zahoor, Block Coordinator from Kangan, shared insights into the honorarium provided to Pashu Sakhi and Krishi Sakhi women, emphasizing their valuable contributions to the community. Currently, approximately 55 women are engaged as Pashu Sakhi and Krishi Sakhi in various parts of the district, receiving training through organized camps to enhance their skills and knowledge.
Shafia Akhter, a Pashu Sakhi, expressed gratitude for the training received under the scheme, which equipped her with the necessary skills to identify animal diseases, prevent them, and administer vaccinations when required. Through their dedicated efforts, these women are playing a pivotal role in ensuring the health and well-being of livestock in their communities.
The UMEED NRLM scheme continues to serve as a beacon of hope for women in Ganderbal, empowering them with financial independence and fostering their active participation in rural development initiatives.

Sheikh Anees