Naveed Ul Haq
Budgam, Jan 1: The Department of Handicrafts and Handloom in central Kashmir’s Budgam district is spearheading a transformation from women being job seekers to becoming job providers.
Officials from the department revealed that numerous training centres have been established which cater to both married and unmarried women and provide them with comprehensive training for three months.
After completing the training, these women are eligible for a registration card, which facilitates access to loans from banks to establish their handicraft units, they said.
One shining example of this initiative is the Haknipora Budgam Zaari Centre, where 25 trainees are currently undergoing specialised Zaari training.
Sakina Ali, a trainee in her third semester, shared her aspirations, saying, “Despite pursuing my studies at college, I am getting Zaari training, and my goal is to open my unit once I complete the training.”
Several other trainees echoed similar sentiments. They said the administration played a crucial role in providing them a platform to work from home and earn a living.
Expressing gratitude to the LG administration for these opportunities, the trainees said this initiative not only transforms their lives but also contributes to the broader narrative of women’s empowerment.
“There is a shift from job seekers to job providers. These women have evolved into entrepreneurs and become valuable contributors to the local economy,” an official said.
