Anantnag, March 8: On the eve of International Women’s Day, the Employment Department Anantnag, in collaboration with National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) Anantnag, organized a vibrant Self-Help Group (SHG) Mela at Industrial Training Institute Seer Hamdan to promote women entrepreneurship and economic empowerment under Mission YUVA.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 270 women entrepreneurs and SHG members from various sectors who showcased their products, skills, and entrepreneurial initiatives. The mela served as an important platform for women to exchange ideas, explore business opportunities, and strengthen local enterprise networks.
The programme was graced by the Chief Agriculture Officer, Anantnag, who attended as the Chief Guest. In his address, he encouraged women to actively pursue entrepreneurship and highlighted the importance of self-reliance and value addition, particularly in agriculture and allied sectors, for building sustainable livelihoods.
The Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer (SDAO), Pahalgam, who attended as the Guest of Honour, appreciated the joint efforts of the organizing departments in creating opportunities for women to showcase their entrepreneurial potential and contribute to local economic development.
On the occasion, Shireen Shafi, District Programme Manager, NRLM Anantnag, delivered an informative session highlighting the integration of Self-Help Groups with Mission YUVA and outlined various opportunities available for women to expand their enterprises and achieve long-term financial independence.
Earlier, the programme commenced with a welcome address by Rayees Iqbal, Employment Officer, who emphasized the significance of such initiatives in fostering entrepreneurship and strengthening women-led enterprises in the district.
A highlight of the event was the felicitation of women achievers from the entrepreneurial sector, who were honoured with mementos and certificates of appreciation for their remarkable contributions and successful ventures, inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs.
On the occasion, Shazlia Qureshi, host of the event, highlighted the objectives of the programme, emphasizing women empowerment, economic stability, and enterprise development as key pillars for inclusive growth in the district. A plantation drive was also conducted to promote environmental awareness.
The event concluded with appreciation for all participants and a renewed commitment from the organizing departments to continue supporting women-led enterprises and startups across Anantnag, reinforcing the district’s vision of empowering women as key drivers of sustainable economic growth.
