In the picturesque village of Takiya Yousuf Shah, located in Wagoora tehsil, a dozen women have embraced economic independence and joy through a unique jam-making initiative. This endeavor, guided by the Grassroots Innovation Augmentation Network (GIAN), a non-profit organization, and supported by the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), has empowered around 100 women across 10 villages in Baramulla district.
Initiated by GIAN three years ago, in collaboration with the Government of India and the Department of Biotechnology, this project has sparked a renaissance in the villages. Women are now utilising age-old recipes passed down through generations to craft the renowned “Wild Raspberry Jam’’.
An official from GIAN stated that the organisation is assisting these women in producing and marketing the jam made from wild raspberries foraged in local forests.
“In just three years, approximately 100 women from ten villages in Baramulla district are involved in jam making,” he said.
Ishrat, a 35-year-old resident of Bandi Bala, shared that the tradition of jam-making not only preserves cultural heritage but also ensures financial stability. Previously engaged in household chores or farming without personal income, these women received training from GIAN to master the art of jam production.
Armed with baskets, these women venture into nearby forests daily, carefully selecting ripe berries to craft their preserves.
“The absence of preservatives and artificial additives ensures a pure, natural flavor in our wide range of jams,” added Ishrat.
Shameema Bano, another woman from Takiya Yousuf, highlighted that by utilizing ripe fruits and berries, they reduce waste, promote sustainability, and conserve natural resources.
Compensated based on their berry collection, these women earn an average monthly income ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 6,000. They produce 250 kilograms of jam annually, generating an estimated turnover ranging from Rs 500,000 to Rs 8,00,000.
Officials from GIAN emphasized that the mission goes beyond economic empowerment—it aims to preserve cultural heritage. “It’s not only about a hundred women but more than a hundred families finding empowerment through this mission. They received training in Gujarat, Mumbai, besides other colleges,” they added.
The women, from villages such as Kafal, Kalle Vyuth, Pamchallan, Hathimool, Pahalgaas, Dupp, Kakko Dad, Thul Babil, and Tyethwan, are also exploring the financial value of medicinal herbs and shrubs that were once commonly used but are now underutilized.
“These women have discovered significant financial value in these medicinal herbs, which are now being sold at good rates. These herbs and shrubs have higher medicinal value,” mentioned an employee of NRLM.
In a remarkable achievement, the women from these villages participated in the G-20 event, showcasing their culinary skills by providing traditional food to the guests.
“With the help of the government, we are even planning the first traditional restaurant where these women will serve traditional Kashmiri food to the guests,” stated an official of GIAN in Kashmir.
