Jammu: Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the aegis of Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) are gearing up to make their debut at the upcoming 4-day ‘Tawi Festival’ in Jammu. The SGHs will showcase the rich and diverse art forms and cultural heritage of the region, highlighting the skills and creativity of local artisans.
This initiative is being undertaken in collaboration with Amar Mahal Museum and Library (AMML) aiming to provide a platform to these women to display their talent and achieve economic empowerment, besides to celebrate the cultural vibrancy of Jammu & Kashmir.
Around 35-40 SHGs from Jammu, Samba, and Udhampur districts will be participating in this cultural extravaganza.
With 8 stalls allocated to the SHG members, including 6 food stalls offering delicacies like Rajma/Rice and Kalari besides other Dogra cuisines, as well as 2 handicraft stalls featuring products ranging from calico/crochet items to organic soaps, spices, pottery and lemongrass products, the festival promises a feast for the senses.
Speaking about the women participation in this grand event, Mission Director Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) Indu Kanwal Chib said that the Tawi festival provides a significant platform to the women SHGs to exhibit their talent and crafts. She underscored that this exposure would not only facilitate networking opportunities but also spotlight the entrepreneurial spirit and innovative products sourced from these groups.
Adding further, the MD said that the collaboration between JKRLM and AMML for the Tawi Festival demonstrates a commitment to support women entrepreneurs and promote the cultural heritage of Jammu. By participating in the festival, the women SHGs of JKRLM would have the opportunity to showcase their talent and connect with potential customers. “This exposure and platform will enable them to garner recognition for their skills, boost their entrepreneurial spirit, and showcase the unique and innovative offerings they bring to the table”, she added.
She thanked Dr. Jyotsna Singh Director (AMML) for providing this opportunity to the women SHGs of JKRLM and said that this platform will serve as a stepping stone for the participating SHG members to further promote and showcase their skills.
The Mission Director further emphasized that initiatives like the Tawi Festival aim to preserve cultural heritage while creating avenues for sustainable livelihoods for women entrepreneurs. Through showcasing their talents at the festival, the SHGs have the opportunity to connect with potential customers, garner recognition for their skills, and boost their entrepreneurial spirit.
While as Speaking about the collaboration with JKRLM, Dr.Jyotsna Singh, Director Amar Mahal Museum and Library, said, “Inspired by the rural business women from JKRLM, I am delighted to have them as part of this festival. I am excited to have rural business women from JKRLM representing the three districts of Samba, Jammu, and Udhampur, showcasing their traditional varieties at the festival. Their participation will add charm, celebrating their talents and our region’s cultural richness”.
