Self-help groups help Udhampur women set up successful ventures
Jammu, January 29
Kaushalya Devi, a resident of Upper Bali village in Udhampur district, has become an epitome of success for local women. Through self-help group (SHG) under Umeed scheme, she has not only built a successful business but also created employment opportunities for other women in her community.
J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha in his recent edition of ‘Awaam ki Awaaz’ programme took note of Devi’s achievements and commended her as a prime example of how self-help groups empower women in rural areas.
Kaushalya’s journey began in 2013 with a simple dairy business but her ambition didn’t stop there. She soon expanded, venturing into tailoring and jute bag production, creating employment opportunities for hundreds of local women. Her eco-friendly jute bags, particularly the prasad’ bags used by devotees at Vaishno Devi shrine, became a source of sustainable income for many. This wasn’t just business for Devi, it was about empowering her community.
Beyond jute bags, Devi, along with the women of her village, revolutionised how they sold their milk. Previously, they had to travel to Udhampur, often receiving meager prices. She started a Kalari (ripened cheese) and cottage cheese making shop at the village. This not only provided them with better rates but also eliminated the need for arduous journeys.
Kaushalya Devi said that government as well as Umeed helped her to reach this height. She added that around 300 women from different SHGs work together in her village.
She actively encourages other women to join her group and work towards financial independence.
Devi acknowledges the role of government support, particularly the Rs 10 lakh loan she received under the Umeed scheme. However, she also highlights the need for continued marketing support to help her businesses reach its full potential.
