Shaping her future
By: Mariya Noor
With its breathtaking natural beauty, Kashmir Valley has long been a region steeped in tradition and history. In the canvas of conflict and adversity, the women of Kashmir have painted a portrait of strength, courage, and empowerment that transcends boundaries.
Despite facing the challenges posed by a volatile region, these women have risen above the limitations imposed upon them, emerging as beacons of inspiration and change. In the beautiful yet troubled land of Kashmir, women have long been marginalized and their voices suppressed. However, they refuse to be silenced, defying societal norms and stepping into the forefront to shape their own destinies. This empowerment has been nurtured by a powerful blend of determination, education, and the unwavering support of their communities.
Education has always been a powerful catalyst for change and this is true for Kashmiri women. Girls in the region have historically had limited access to education, which has perpetuated gender inequalities. However, there has been a significant shift towards improving women’s literacy in recent decades.
NGOs, government initiatives and community leaders have worked tirelessly to close this gap. Schools and colleges focused on the education of girls sprang up, offering women the opportunity to acquire knowledge and skills. The impact of education on Kashmiri women cannot be overstated. This gave them the tools to break out of traditional roles and seek financial independence. An educated woman is better equipped to make informed decisions about her life, health and future, which promotes a more inclusive and empowered society.
Economic empowerment was another important aspect of the upliftment of women in the Kashmir valley. Traditionally, women in that region were limited to domestic and agricultural work, which limited their economic potential.
However, this story is changing. Taking the example of Yasmeena Ali, a Kashmiri woman, started the “Made in Kashmir” initiative to promote locally handmade products like Pashmina shawls, silk garments, and embroidered clothing. She created a platform for local women artisans to showcase their skills and sell their products globally.
This initiative not only helped in preserving traditional Kashmiri handicrafts but also provided economic opportunities to many women in the region. Post this various programs and initiatives have been launched to provide women with vocational training and entrepreneurship opportunities. These efforts range from skill development programs to the creation of women’s cooperatives so that they can be self-reliant and financially independent.
One such story is of Haseena Muzzafar, a successful entrepreneur who established “KashCrafts,” an organization that showcases traditional Kashmiri crafts and offers employment opportunities to local women. Haseena focuses on empowering women by providing skill development training and financial independence through the sale of handcrafted products.
Her efforts have not only improved the economic conditions of many families but also promoted the cultural heritage of Kashmir. The more women enter the workforce, the more they contribute not only to their own financial well-being, but also to the overall economic development of the region.
In the area of political participation, Kashmiri women often faced challenges similar to those in other conservative societies. The cultural and political climate discouraged women from actively participating in politics. However, there is significant change happening over the time , and more and more women entered the arena of politics.
This success is largely due to the efforts of women’s advocacy organizations and the determination of women leaders. The participation of women in politics is crucial to achieving gender equality and solving problems that directly affect them. By having a seat at the decision-making table, women can voice their concerns and advocate for policies that improve their lives and the lives of their communities.
The region has experienced political turmoil and conflict that has disproportionately affected women. They faced educational disruptions, economic instability and lack of security. Despite these obstacles, Kashmiri women have shown remarkable resilience and determination in their quest for empowerment.
Women of Kashmir Valley have achieved important milestones in various fields. Their achievements are a testament to the progress achieved from educational excellence and top positions in higher education to successful entrepreneurs and politicians.
One such inspirational figure is Ayesha, who overcame social pressure to pursue a career as a lawyer. She is now a well-known lawyer advocating for women’s rights and justice in the region. Ayesha’s story is just one example of how empowering women can lead to revolutionary changes not only in their lives but in the wider community.
There are multiple examples of women who showed their skills in contact sports, science, administration, judiciary, media and even in security agencies like, Shabnam Ara, a brave and talented woman from Kashmir, has become a role model for several aspiring female footballers. Despite facing societal opposition, she pursued her passion for football and represented the Indian national women’s football team.
Shabnam’s success has inspired many young girls in Kashmir to overcome challenges and follow their dreams. These fearless modern day women are not restricted by any contact sport as well. The empowerment of women in Kashmir Valley is an ongoing process that is of immense importance for the development and well-being of the region. Education, economic opportunity and political participation played a central role in creating a more inclusive and just society.
While challenges continue, the resilience and determination of Kashmiri women and their remarkable success stories offer hope for a brighter future where women are at the forefront of progress and positive change.
“Empowerment of women in Kashmir knows no boundaries. From the peaks of the Himalayas to the depths of the Dal Lake, the power and potential of women echo through the valley. They are the architects of change, the bearers of resilience, and the catalysts for progress.
In a society that once whispered, now their voices roar, breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes. They embrace education, overcome adversity, and march fearlessly towards their dreams. Modern Women in Kashmir dissolve the shackles of tradition and create a future unfettered by limitations.
This topic of discussion is not a destination, but an ongoing journey. Let us honor the trailblazers, empower the present, and pave the way for a future that thrives on the collective strength of women and men working together. Together, we shall create a Kashmir where equality knows no bounds and empowerment knows no limits”
(The author can be reached at mnoorkashmir@gmail.com)
