Sheikh Anees
Ganderbal:- Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) is creating sustainable livelihoods opportunities and nurturing the rural women to make them self sufficient and enjoy a decent quality of life.
JKRLM also known as UMEED is turning the wheel of transformation for J&K women to become progressive and self-employed entrepreneurs. UMEED has the potential to give wings to aspirations of rural women who dream of becoming economically independent.
One inspiring example is Nusrat Praveen a 45Year Old Mother of three from Doodkant Arch area of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district who has risen from being a homemaker to a successful entrepreneur.
Nusrat’s journey began in 2017 when she joined the Snober Self-Help Group (SHG) under the UMEED Scheme. With the support of the SHG and the UMEED Scheme, Nusrat acquired essential skills in savings, loan management, and income diversification. Her active participation and leadership qualities earned her the role of Community Mobilizer (Com).
Nusrat availed of loans from the Village Organization (VO) and bank linkage to establish her businesses. She successfully established a garment shop, followed by a kirana shop, and later, a pickle unit named “Panun Achar” after receiving training from the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Ganderbal.
I was just a homemaker, but the UMEED Scheme gave me the confidence to start my own business, Said Nusrat. She said The training and support I received were invaluable in helping me establish my garment shop, kirana shop, and pickle unit.
Starting my own business was not easy, but the support of my family especially my Husband and the SHG gave me the courage to pursue my dreams, Nusrat said. “I am proud to say that I have been able to provide a better life for my family and create employment opportunities for others.
Nusrat’s entrepreneurial ventures have yielded impressive results. Her monthly earnings exceed ₹15,000, enabling her to repay loans and enhance her family’s living standards. Her pickle unit, Panun Achar, has been a game-changer, with orders pouring in from all over Kashmir and even from outside the state.
“I’ve been able to create a unique brand showcasing the flavors and traditions of Kashmir, I use only the freshest ingredients and traditional recipes. It’s a great feeling to know my product is being enjoyed by so many.
Nusrat’s success has inspired other women to embark on similar entrepreneurial journeys. As a SHG member and then Community Mobilizer, she continues to motivate and empower her fellow SHG members.
Nusrat’s success is a testament to the power of women’s entrepreneurship and its impact on families and communities district Programme Manager Ganderbal Zahida Rashid “We are proud to have supported Nusrat on her entrepreneurial journey and look forward to seeing her continued success and growth.
Block Programme Manager Ganderbal Irfan Ahmad Said that the Nusrat’s story demonstrates that with determination, hard work, and the right support, women can overcome challenges and achieve economic stability, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. Irfan Said Nusrat’s journey is a shining example of the transformative power of entrepreneurship and the impact it can have on individuals, families, and communities.
