Srinagar, Jan 25: Marking a historic moment, nine women from Self Help Groups (SHGs) supported by Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission have received the first-ever invite to attend the Republic Day Parade ceremony 2024 in New Delhi on Friday. It is a matter of pride as these empowered women are being recognized at a national stage, officials said.
An official said that the nine-woman group, originating from rural areas, has been instrumental in bringing about transformation while playing a vital role towards women empowerment.
He said that the group is accompanied by their spouses and had earlier received an invitation to witness the main event of the Republic Day Parade in New Delhi.
“The invitation is seen as recognition of the work the rural women have undertaken. The Rural SHGs have empowered the rural economy and seized new opportunities to boost local products,” he said.
Zahida Khan who will be attending the R Day event said that the invitation is more than just witnessing the Parade; it’s genuine recognition of the work the SHGs are doing in rural areas.
“JKRLM is a driving force and support system that provided all the necessary support in promoting the region’s growth and made us self-reliant. We are really excited to witness the parade as special guests in New Delhi,” Khan said.
Samriti Sharma, a member of SHG from Reasi also attending the event, told Rising Kashmir that it is a proud moment to be present during the special occasion as special guests, which we usually used to see on television only. We have been recognized and will see the Republic Day Parade with our own eyes for the first time.
Indu Kanwal Chib, Mission Director (MD) JKRLM, told Rising Kashmir that the invitation is a historic moment for the group members and for all of us as it’s happening for the first time that our SHGs received a special invitation. This is a significant moment in boosting the morale of the rural SHGs. These empowered women, pioneers of transformation in J&K, break societal taboos and inspire the community
“We, as a family in JKRLM, cherish this moment and congratulate the nine members for witnessing the main event as special guests. They really do a lot of hard work back in the villages to boost the rural economy and products. We wish them all the best,” MD JKRLM added.
She further added that this is the biggest achievement for JKRLM so far – women who fought the conservatives and prejudices of society, and now their dedication and impact are being recognized on a national platform.
