In the border district Kupwara north Kashmir, where the rugged mountains meet the green valleys, a woman from Ganderbal is making waves by empowering young girls in Kupwara. Pakeeza Nazir, a young trainer at a walnut processing unit in Anderhama Drugmulla, has become a beacon of hope for many girls in the area. Through her efforts, Pakeeza is providing these girls with the skills they need to stand on their own feet, become economically independent, and build a better future for themselves.
Pakeeza’s journey began with a desire to help others, particularly women, by providing them with skills that could improve their lives. “I have always wanted to do something good for society, and most importantly, for women empowerment,” Pakeeza says, reflecting on her journey. The walnut processing unit where she works is located in the Anderhama Drugmulla, in the Kupwara district. Over the last two years, Pakeeza has trained numerous young girls at the Jazba Agri Unit, an initiative supported by TYCIA Foundation, SIDBI, Ananya Birla Foundation, and the Indian Army.
The program offers an opportunity for young girls in the border district to learn the skills needed to create walnut-based products such as walnut chutney, walnut choco rocks, and walnut dates. These products not only showcase the potential of the Kupwara’s walnut crops but also open up new avenues for economic growth. Pakeeza’s role as a trainer at the unit has helped transform the lives of many young girls in the locality.
For the girls who come to the unit, it is much more than just a learning experience; it’s a chance to grow, explore their creativity, and most importantly, become financially independent. “I am proud of the work we do here. This initiative has given me the opportunity to teach these girls and watch them grow into confident, skilled individuals,” Pakeeza explains. She adds that the girls are encouraged to experiment with new products, develop their skills, and even envision starting their own walnut processing units in the future.
The Jazba Agri Unit provides a space where the girls can explore their creativity and take on real-world challenges. The training not only involves making walnut products but also teaches essential business and marketing skills. Pakeeza’s vision is to ensure that these girls have the tools to succeed both in their personal and professional lives. “Our goal is not just to teach them how to make walnut-based products but also to give them the confidence and knowledge they need to succeed in life,” she says.
The demand for walnut-based products has been growing steadily, and as a result, the unit plans to introduce more varieties of products in the coming months. This will allow the girls to expand their skill sets and explore new opportunities in the walnut processing industry. The response from the community and the trainees has been positive, with many expressing gratitude for the chance to be part of this empowering initiative.
One such trainee is Farhat Manzoor, a young girl from Drugmulla. After completing her graduation, she found herself sitting idle at home with limited opportunities. “I was at home, feeling lost, until I heard about the walnut processing unit. I decided to give it a try, and I feel lucky to have been selected for the training,” she says. Farhat quickly adapted to the training, learning the art of making walnut products, and now, she is ready to set up her own walnut processing unit. “After just a few months of training, I now have the skills and knowledge to start my own business. I’m excited about the future,” she adds with a smile.
For Farhat and many others like her, the walnut processing unit has opened doors to a brighter future. Before the unit came into the picture, young girls in the area had limited options. Many would stay at home after completing their education, with little opportunity to apply their knowledge or skills.
The impact of the walnut processing unit extends beyond the girls being trained. It is also benefiting the community as a whole. Local residents are proud of the initiative and see it as a step forward for the development of their area. “The walnut processing unit has provided a lifeline for many girls in our area. It has not only given them a chance to earn a living but also helped them become more confident and independent,” says Azad Ahmad, a local resident from Anderhama Drugmulla.
Ahmad is not alone in his praise for the initiative. Many locals see the unit as a vital resource for young girls who are eager to make something of themselves. For years, the area had limited opportunities for women to engage in meaningful work. With the establishment of the walnut processing unit, the landscape is changing, and young girls are beginning to envision a future where they are in control of their own destiny.
Looking ahead, Pakeeza is determined to expand the initiative, providing even more opportunities for young girls in the region. “There is so much potential here. I believe in these girls, and I know they can accomplish great things,” she says with conviction. As the walnut processing unit grows and evolves, it promises to continue changing lives, one young girl at a time.
