Srinagar, 08 Jan: A lady from Khrew Pampore area of Pulwama district is earning a good income by setting up sheep farm with the assistance of UMEED scheme of J&K Rural Livelihoods Mission.
Imrat Jan (23) resident of Shaar Shali Khrew has set an example in her locality by setting up a sheep farm unit and earning a handsome amount on monthly basis.
Imrat while talking with the Kashmir Scroll said that belonging to financially weak family she was living a very hard life and it was very difficult for her to make both the ends meet as no body in my family was earning anything.
In 2018, she came to know about Self Help Groups and she joined it with a budget of monthly Rs 100 per month, she said, adding that when government started to infuse funds into the SHGs and accordingly members started their own small businesses.
“With the help of small funds at initial stage, she purchased a sewing machine and after working for some time, she purchased a cow so as to support family financially.” Imrat said.
Later slowly and steadily, with the help of SHGs, I have purchased some sheeps and started a small sheep farm and presently I have around 40 sheeps in my farm, she added.
SHGs have not only helped to become self dependent but I am now helping my family members financially, she said, adding that it has become possible only because of SHGs.
After crossing class 10th , I wasn’t able to continue my studies due to financial issues but now in last three years I have made a good progress and due to the UMEED scheme I have made my own image in my area and my respect in village is of such level that people ask for my opinion on every new work for our village.
She while advising the women of J&K to take benefits of UMEED scheme and join SHGs in their areas, said that the UMEED has given her a name and a unique identity, making her independent.
Youth especially ladies shouldn’t waste their time only after government jobs but they should join SHGs and start small businesses and if they will work hard, they will definitely become independent and live a very happy life.
