Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, May 24: The Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) showcased the cultural richness of the region through its Umeed marketplace and millet cafe, receiving accolades from foreign delegates during the recent G20 summit held in Kashmir.
Under the theme of “empowering women and promoting local craftsmanship”, JKRLM’s Umeed marketplace became a vibrant hub where eight women entrepreneurs from the mission set up their stalls at the prestigious Sher-e-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC).
As per a statement, the stalls featured unique products that captivated the attention of the G20 delegates, ranging from intricate handicrafts to agricultural produce, value-added items, and more.
The foreign delegates applauded the exceptional craftwork of Kashmiri women and were delighted to explore the diverse offerings at the Umeed marketplace.
The event celebrated the spirit of strength and resilience, with women from different districts across Jammu & Kashmir showcasing their talents and entrepreneurial skills.
The JKRLM had trained and empowered these women, enabling them to become self-reliant and participate in the global market.
Furthermore, a millet cafe was set up exclusively for the foreign delegates at SKICC. Managed entirely by women from the JKRLM’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs), the cafe offered mouth-watering delicacies prepared using millet, highlighting its nutritional benefits and potential as a source of livelihood. The year 2023 being celebrated as the International Year of Millets, JKRLM took advantage of the G20 platform to promote this nutritious grain and provide the SHG women with an opportunity to earn a sustainable livelihood.
Indu Kanwal Chib, Mission Director of JKRLM, emphasized that the Umeed marketplace, millet hub, and millet cafe aimed to give the SHG women an exposure of international standards while reinforcing their spirit of strength and resilience.
She credited the transformational leadership of Commissioner Secretary Mandeep Kaur of the Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj for driving initiatives like SARAS and seizing the opportunity to participate in the esteemed G20 summit.
The positive response from the delegates uplifted the morale of the SHG women, as their talent and products were highly appreciated on the global stage.
Meanwhile, JKRLM has expressed gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for his constant support in empowering rural SHG women and providing the department with opportunities to participate in such significant global events.
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