CHENANI: In a significant move towards fostering economic independence and sustainable development among rural women, Secretary Rural Development Department (RDD) and Panchayati Raj, Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary distributed sanction letters worth Rs 76.57 lakhs to Self-Help Groups (SHGs) associated with the Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission (JKRLM) in Chenani. The allocated funds are specifically designated for various livelihood initiatives, aimed at providing crucial support to enhance their economic prospects. Among the initiatives, the establishment of a Farm Machinery Bank, with a total cost of Rs 10 Lakh and an 80% subsidy sanctioned by the Agriculture Department, two Masala Processing Units, costing around 13 lakhs with a 60% subsidy sanctioned by the Horticulture Department. The sanction of a Poly House, with a cost of Rs 2.15 lakh and a 95% subsidy sanctioned by the Agriculture Department, will provide an ideal environment for cultivating high-value crops. Furthermore, the Micro Enterprises Development Programme (MEDP) on Chir-Pine Needles, costing Rs 1.17 lakh and sanctioned by by NABARD, along with the NOC provided by the Forest Department for Chir-Pine Collection, will create opportunities for sustainable livelihoods and promote forest conservation. Additionally, a Bank Credit Linkage of Rs 50 lakhs has been allocated to SHGs for various livelihood initiatives initiated by the members, further demonstrating the government’s commitment to supporting rural women in their entrepreneurial endeavors. Dr. Shahid emphasized JKRLM’s dedicated efforts in implementing these initiatives across rural areas of District Udhampur, providing crucial last-mile support to empower rural women and elevate their status within their families and communities. He said that these initiatives, sanctioned by respective line departments and JKRLM, are strategically aimed at fostering sustainable development and economic independence among rural women. Secretary RDD reiterated the commitment to address genuine demands and issues on a priority basis, underlining the government’s dedication to the welfare and development of rural communities. Expressing gratitude, Mission Director JKRLM, Indu Kanwal Chib, extended appreciation to Secretary RDD & PR for their visit to Tehsil Chenani. She highlighted JKRLM’s proactive efforts in empowering rural women in District Udhampur, emphasizing the provision of last-mile support to enhance livelihoods. During the program, beneficiaries of SHGs shared inspiring success stories, showcasing the tangible benefits derived from government welfare schemes. Additionally, Ex-PRI members voiced pertinent issues and demands, including the promotion of rural tourism, provision of bus services, resolution of pending liabilities of footbridges, construction of roads, establishment of small industries, development of an eco-tourism park in Patnitop, construction of Karlah Gouri Kund road, and the establishment of a conference cum meeting hall. Director Rural Development Jammu, Mohammad Mumtaz Ali, Director Panchayati Raj, Sham Lal, SDM Chenani Gurdev Kumar, CEO PDA, and other officials, alongside Ex-PRI members, SHGs, and the general public were present.
