Amarnath Yatra: SHGs in J&K roped in to make raincoats & woollens

Arjun Sharma

Jammu, June 30

To shield Amarnath Yatra pilgrims and officials deputed at different locations safe from rain and cold weather, thousands of women in J&K are working day and night for stitching raincoats, gloves, mufflers and other woollen items.

A number of self-help groups (SHGs) in different districts of the UT have been roped in prepare merchandise required for the pilgrimage. At least 30 stalls along the pilgrimage route have been set up where items made by these SHGs have been kept for sale.

Lt Governor Manoj Sinha was keen on ensuring that Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board officials managing the yatra at base camps wear proper uniform. The aim was to ensure that pilgrims identify them and reach out to them for any assistance.

The Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission (JKRLM) was entrusted with the responsibility of making uniform in the form of tracksuits and raincoats among others. Later, SHGs were also told to set up stalls to sell these items to pilgrims as well.