Monday, April 10, 2017

With a view to horizon the opportunities for rural women entrepreneurs, Catholic social Service Society, Jammu in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra, R.S. Pura hosted an exhibition cum sale of cushions made by members of Pragati Self Help Group, R.S. Pura during Kisan Mela being held at SKUAST Jammu.

The first day of exhibition which was inaugurated by Shri N.N Vohra, the Governor witnessed presence of large number of people mainly farmers from all over the region. Various dignitaries and officials from different departments who visited the stall appreciated the efforts of the women and encouraged them to continue exploring more avenues for exposure and steady income for their families. Appraising them about the work undertaken, Fr Shaiju Chacko, Director of CSSS said that the Society is working in several villages in J&K and is providing entrepreneurial avenues and economic stability to women through formation Self Help Groups (SHG). Besides engaging women through SHGs, CSSS is also working in areas of community development, health and hygiene, disaster risk reduction, community-based rehabilitation, health care, peace education and farmer clubs, he added.

Sharing her experiences of being part of the venture, Smt. Sushma Kumari said that the training imparted by KVK R.S. Pura and financial support from CSSS have infused new lease of life to her and other women in the group. Ms. Madhulika Sharma, the Coordinator of the Project expressed satisfaction for the dedication and passion of the group to improve their livelihood. All the 10 members in the group have specific job roles that are mutually decided by the women themselves and so each member has specific responsibility like purchasing of material, cutting, budgeting and marketing. They work as a team under the guidance and support of CSSS, R.S. Pura unit. She thanked Dr. Vikas Tandon, Head & Senior Scientist, KVK; Dr. Sheetal Badyal, Programme officer, SMS, KVK and Dr. Poonam Abrol, Programme Assistant KVK for the continuous support and technical guidance to the local team of CSSS.