Nusrat’s inspiring journey from homemaker to successful entrepreneur in Ganderbal
GANDERBAL: Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) is creating sustainable livelihood opportunities and nurturing rural women to make them self-sufficient and enjoy a decent quality of life.
JKRLM, also known as UMEED, is turning the wheel of transformation for J&K women to become progressive and self-employed entrepreneurs. UMEED has the potential to give wings to the aspirations of rural women who dream of becoming economically independent.
One inspiring example is Nusrat Praveen, a 45-year-old mother of three from Doodkant Arch area of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, who has risen from being a homemaker to a successful entrepreneur.
Nusrat’s journey began in 2017 when she joined the Snober Self-Help Group (SHG) under the UMEED Scheme. With the support of the SHG and the UMEED Scheme, Nusrat acquired essential skills in savings, loan management, and income diversification. Her active participation and leadership qualities earned her the role of Community Mobilizer (Com).
Nusrat availed of loans from the Village Organization (VO) and bank linkage to establish her businesses. She successfully established a garment shop, followed by a kirana shop, and later, a pickle unit named “Panun Achar” after receiving training from the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Ganderbal.
“I was just a homemaker, but the UMEED Scheme gave me the confidence to start my own business,” Nusrat said, adding, “The training and support I received were invaluable in helping me establish my garment shop, kirana shop, and pickle unit.”
She said starting her own business was not easy. “But the support of my family especially my husband and the SHG gave me the courage to pursue my dreams,” the entrepreneur said, adding, “I am proud to say that I have been able to provide a better life for my family and create employment opportunities for others.”
Nusrat’s entrepreneurial ventures have yielded impressive results. Her monthly earnings exceed Rs 15,000, enabling her to repay loans and enhance her family’s living standards. Her pickle unit, Panun Achar, has been a game-changer, with orders pouring in from all over Kashmir and even from outside the state.
“I’ve been able to create a unique brand showcasing the flavours and traditions of Kashmir, I use only the freshest ingredients and traditional recipes. It’s a great feeling to know my product is being enjoyed by so many,” she said.
Nusrat’s success has inspired other women to embark on similar entrepreneurial journeys. As a SHG member and then Community Mobilizer, she continues to motivate and empower her fellow SHG members.
District Programme Manager, Ganderbal, Zahida Rashid said, “We are proud to have supported Nusrat on her entrepreneurial journey and look forward to seeing her continued success and growth.”
Block Programme Manager Ganderbal Irfan Ahmad said Nusrat’s story demonstrates that with determination, hard work, and the right support, women can overcome challenges and achieve economic stability, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
“Nusrat’s journey is a shining example of the transformative power of entrepreneurship and the impact it can have on individuals, families, and communities,” Irfan said.