there is a long way to go towards achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir.
Every year, Women’s Equality Day is celebrated on August 26.Every single day, women around the world face a variety of issues including safety, rights and sexism, not only at home but also at the workplace. However, like always they continue to fight the system for their own welfare, brave the many challenges that come along with it and cross those hurdles with renewed vigour as they not only fight the people but also the system, which is so often against them.
Over the last two years, the government in Jammu and Kashmir has been actively pushing for policies and initiatives aimed at empowering women in the region.
From providing skill development training to promoting women’s entrepreneurship, there has been a concerted effort to bridge the gender gap and create a more inclusive society.
The government has also been working towards improving the security situation for women by strengthening the law-and-order machinery and increasing police patrolling in vulnerable areas.
The focus on women’s empowerment is not just limited to urban areas but extends to rural areas as well, where women often face greater social and economic challenges. While there is still a long way to go, the recent measures taken by the government in Jammu and Kashmir have given hope for a brighter future for women in the region.
The issue of women’s rights and their empowerment has always been a burning topic in India, especially in places like Jammu and Kashmir where women have always been at the receiving end of the Kashmir’s strife, facing severe restrictions and obstacles to their education, health, and economic opportunities.
However, the situation is changing rapidly, due to the efforts of the leadership of Manoj Sinha, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir as well as a deliberate and positive approach of the Union Government towards the region.
According to the latest report by the National Crime Records Bureau, Jammu and Kashmir women have suffered various crimes, including rape, molestation, and domestic violence. The report also highlights the low rate of society’s intervention in such cases, which further exacerbates the problem.
Despite these challenges, women in Jammu and Kashmir have shown remarkable resilience and courage in overcoming the obstacles to their empowerment.
Over the years, there has been a significant increase in women’s participation in various fields, including politics, education, and entrepreneurship. Women in Jammu and Kashmir have also formed self-help groups and cooperatives, which have helped them to access credit and to market their products.
It would be unjust not to mention the role played by Manoj Sinha, in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment in the region. Sinha, who took charge as the Lieutenant Governor of J&K in August 2020, has focused on several initiatives aimed at improving the lives of women in Jammu and Kashmir. Manoj Sinha, has the ability to provide guidance and care similar to that of elders from past generations. This melts our hearts.
The “J&K Rural Livelihoods Mission,” aims to promote entrepreneurship and self-employment among women in rural areas. Under this initiative, women in Jammu and Kashmir are being trained in various skills, including handicrafts, tailoring, and food processing. They are provided seed capital and marketing support to start their own businesses.
In addition to these initiatives, Manoj Sinha has also emphasised the need for gender sensitisation and awareness in Jammu and Kashmir. He has sensitised young boys and men on gender equality and women rights to create a more inclusive and safe society.
The impact of Manoj Sinha’s initiatives on women’s empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir has been significant. The “J&K Rural Livelihoods Mission” has helped to create over 2,000 women entrepreneurs in the region, providing them with a sustainable source of income and economic independence.
The efforts of Manoj Sinha need to be sustained and expanded to ensure that women in Jammu and Kashmir have equal access to opportunities and are empowered to lead fulfilling lives. A society that respects and values its women is a society that thrives and prospers. The leadership of Manoj Sinha is welcome step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society in Jammu and Kashmir.
However, there is still a long way to go towards achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir. Despite these appointments, women in the region still face several challenges, including limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, and exposure to gender-based violence and abuse. But there is justified hope.
With the current generation understanding the importance of equality, parents have started to embed these values at the nascent stage especially if it involves a girl child. There are men who exhibit equality by getting involved in household chores just like any woman would. With diversity and inclusion put in place in most organisations, women have started to hold leadership positions that they justify with ease.
