Srinagar, Oct 15: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha dedicated the 31st edition of the “Awaam ki Awaaz” programme to honour the women change-makers of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. On the auspicious occasion of Navratri, Lt. Governor Sinha reaffirmed the Jammu and Kashmir administration’s unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment and gender equality.
Lt. Governor Sinha eloquently stated, “Goddess Durga is a symbol of women empowerment. May the festival of Navratri inspire us to work for the well-being and progress of Nari Shakti and build a gender-equal society.”
During this month’s programme, Lt. Governor Sinha shared the inspiring journeys of women entrepreneurs and underscored the administration’s efforts to create an enabling environment for women entrepreneurship, allowing them to realise their true potential.
“One such remarkable woman is Rabiya Rasool, an entrepreneur from Srinagar and the owner of a carpet enterprise. She embodies conviction, commitment, dedication, and indomitable courage. Additionally, she is reviving the traditional Ardabil style of carpets, which serves as an inspiration to other young entrepreneurs,” said Lt Governor Sinha.
Sanchaita Pradhan Khajuria and Mansi Gupta were also praised for their endeavours in strengthening the unique cultural and artistic heritage of Jammu and Kashmir. Sanchaita, through her company ‘Shilpkari Bazar Business,’ is promoting Basohli and Bina art, becoming an immense source of inspiration to all women.
Mansi Gupta, the force behind MG Design Studio, is making dedicated efforts to revive the Calico painting art of Samba.
The HAUSLA program, a key initiative of the UT Administration, has played a pivotal role in aiding women entrepreneurs to rise and excel. It has been instrumental in supporting women like Zariefa Hamid, Shivani Sharma, and Sanyokta Bhagat, helping them learn the nuances of the e-commerce market and develop their business ideas.
Zariefa Hamid, with the support and assistance extended to her, has garnered a global clientele for her company, Misal Embroidery, manufacturing Pashmina Shawls. Shivani Sharma has transitioned her pre-school operations into the digital realm and is redefining business and operational models through innovative ideas.
Sanyokta Bhagat from RS Pura has overcome numerous challenges to establish her place in the garment sector.
In addition, Lt. Governor Sinha gave special recognition to the Khushi cluster federation from block Ghordi, Udhampur, which is planning to take its pine handicraft products global by launching them on e-commerce platforms. This initiative will provide better marketing linkages for the highly talented artisans, craftsmen, and small enterprises of Udhampur.
Zeenat Mushtaq, a pivotal contributor to Jammu and Kashmir’s business ecosystem, aims to participate in national and international expos to pass on her wealth of marketing experience and business values to the next generation.
Lt Governor Sinha highlighted valuable suggestions from several citizens, including Sheikh Mohd Saleem from Srinagar, Sankarshan from Samba, Mushtaq Ahmed Lone from Budgam, Arnab Khajuria from Jammu, Rajouri’s Mohammad Aslam, Abhinav Bhatti from Samba, and Jammu’s Rhythm Sharma. These suggestions encompass the promotion of Khadi, empowerment and mainstreaming of street vendors, and efficient functioning of cooperative societies.
Lt. Governor Sinha urged citizens to support local products and Self-Help Groups, potters, small manufacturers, and sellers during the festival season. The event celebrated and reinforced the indomitable spirit of women change-makers in Jammu and Kashmir.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has extended his greetings to the people on Navratri. In a message, the Lt Governor said: “On the auspicious occasion of Navratri, I extend my hearty greetings. The festival of Navratri signifies the triumph of truth, righteousness and virtue over evil. The nine-day celebration fosters goodness within and motivates people to work for peace, harmony and the progress of the nation. May Goddess Durga shower her blessings on the society for years to come and may the festivity bring health, happiness and prosperity to all.”
