Empowering Kashmiri Women Through Technology and Digital Initiatives
Technology, Digital India, and women-led initiatives are revolutionizing opportunity, independence, and progress in Kashmir. Kashmiri women are embracing technology to pave new paths towards empowerment. By leveraging digital skills, online marketplaces, and initiatives like Digital India, they are securing gainful employment, independence, and self-sufficiency.
Traditionally, women in India, especially in Kashmir, have faced significant barriers to economic participation. Limited access to education, markets, and job opportunities has hindered their financial growth. Social norms confined them to household roles, while mobility issues and safety concerns further limited their economic engagement. This underutilization of women’s potentials has impeded progress at both individual and community levels.
The launch of the Digital India Initiative in 2015 aimed to transform India into a digitally empowered nation. By enhancing digital infrastructure, literacy, and access to government services, this initiative provided women with opportunities to access information, skills, and markets in the digital space.
Since then, digital technologies have become a powerful tool for empowering Kashmiri women economically and socially. Smartphones have become portable business centers, connecting women to customers, finances, knowledge, and government services. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Amazon Saheli, and Flipkart Samarth have enabled women entrepreneurs to expand their businesses globally and increase their profit margins.
Women in Kashmir are not only embracing digital transformation but also leading the way. They are showcasing innovative ideas and quality leadership in online businesses, groups, and small enterprises. Through digital marketing, online payment systems, and content development, women are promoting their products, managing finances independently, and sharing their cultural heritage with a global audience.
Digital engagement is also empowering women in terms of skill development. Women who were once hesitant to enter the public domain are now negotiating with clients, handling business calls, and mentoring others. They are serving as role models in their communities and inspiring others to participate in the digital economy.
Notable examples of women’s entrepreneurial success in Kashmir include Sadia Bhat, who established the first women-driven cab service, and Zahida Akhtar, Dr. Ruveda Salam, Gulshana, Tahira, and Shazia Bhat, who have excelled in diverse fields, breaking barriers and inspiring others.
Women in Kashmir are leveraging technology to transcend traditional boundaries in business, technology, and management. Technology is empowering them to expand their businesses, educate themselves, communicate effectively, and contribute to peace, stability, and holistic growth in the region.
By harnessing the power of technology and digital initiatives, Kashmiri women are reshaping their futures and driving progress towards a developed India. Join them on this transformative journey towards empowerment and success.
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