JUNE 24: Jammu and Kashmir has made remarkable strides in rural women empowerment through the Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM), as highlighted during a comprehensive review meeting chaired by Secretary of the Rural Development Department (RDD), Mohammad Aijaz Asad. The review underscored key achievements made under JKRLM, including the formation of over 94,000 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and the notable success of 1.84 lakh rural women attaining the status of “Lakhpati Didi” within a span of just six months.
These accomplishments mark a significant leap in grassroots development and financial independence for women in rural areas of the Union Territory. Secretary Asad praised the efforts of field functionaries and mission staff for their commitment towards uplifting women through sustainable livelihood programs. He emphasized the critical importance of income-generating activities, robust capacity-building efforts, and expanded training infrastructure to sustain this momentum.
Jammu and Kashmir has also earned top rankings nationally in Cluster Level Federation (CLF) profiling and SHG performance, reflecting the Mission’s structured and effective implementation. Secretary Asad highlighted that these rankings not only validate the hard work on the ground but also position J&K as a role model in rural livelihoods promotion.
A major focus of the meeting was on enhancing the capacity of Community Managed Training Centres (CMTCs), which are pivotal in equipping SHG members with necessary skills, knowledge, and entrepreneurial abilities. Expansion of these centers is expected to further boost the success of women-led micro-enterprises.
Secretary Asad further called for greater convergence between JKRLM and various line departments, including agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, and rural development schemes. The goal is to ensure seamless integration of services, maximize resource utilization, and create comprehensive support ecosystems for SHGs and their federations.
The JKRLM’s success story is rooted in its community-driven approach, where women are not just beneficiaries but leaders of transformation. With continued support, infrastructure development, and policy-level coordination, Jammu and Kashmir is poised to continue setting new benchmarks in rural development and women’s empowerment.
The Secretary concluded the session by urging all stakeholders to maintain the current pace, while innovating new ways to scale impact, generate employment, and build resilient rural economies.
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