With JKRLM’s help, Pulwama craftswoman script success story

Pulwama, Nov 14 : A mother of three kids is scripting a new success story of entrepreneurship and community transformation at a remote village in South Kashmir’s Pulwama district.
Rafiya Jan is a resident of Owrigund Tral in Pulwama, mother of three kids, she is a respected name not only in Owrigund but beyond her village.
Talking to Rising Kashmir, Rafiya narrated that she inherited the art of Kandkari ( engraving motifs and designs on copper wear) from her father and after marriage she continued her profession.
She enjoyed the support of her husband .
She used to take orders from people to make copper utensils look beautiful by engraving them with different designs and patterns.
However, it was not helping her alleviate the financial condition of her family.
On being informed by someone about Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission (JKRLM) financing artisans like her, she formed a self-help group with other talented girls of her area which include Shakeela Akhter, Foziya Jan, Uzma Jan, Humariyah Jan, Muzamil Jan and Kowsar Jan.
With hand holding from JKRLM the group started their own entrepreneurship in their village.
“We have been working as a SHG for the past six months and we have our own work, we earn a decent amount with which we support our families,” Rafiya said, adding that presently they engrave designs on copper utensils like plates used for serving food and tea.
They have ambitions of expansion in future.
The ladies group has inspired many by their skills and craft.
The Deputy Commissioner of Pulwama, Basharat Qayoom, showered praises on them saying that a remarkable group of six talented ladies, supported by JKRLM, is making waves in copper craftsmanship. With financial backing and determination, they’re not just creating art but transforming their community.
Arshid Ahmad Bhat, District Programme Manager, JKRLM, Pulwana said that the district has a rich legacy of copper craftsmanship.
He added that walking through the lanes of Pulwama market, one can witness copper artisans as they meticulously craft designs, creating unique items day in and day out.
“Pulwama’s rich legacy in Copperware handicraft entrepreneurship is being carried forward by these enterprising women,” Bhat said, adding that financial support from the Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission (JKRLM) has played a pivotal role in their success.