J&K WOMEN: VOICES OF PROGRESS AND HOPE

On International Women’s Day 2025, the ASSOCHAM J&K Women Achievers Awards celebrated their fifth year, a reflection of the increasing recognition of women’s achievements in many domains and the ongoing fight for a gender-neutral society. The eight exceptional women from Jammu & Kashmir whose relentless determination to succeed has established new standards in their fields were honoured at the event hosted by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM). This initiative goes beyond mere recognition; it serves as a crucial step in fostering a culture where women’s achievements are celebrated, their challenges acknowledged, and their aspirations supported through meaningful policy interventions and economic opportunities.

The presence of key dignitaries, including Sakina Itoo, Hon’ble Minister, emphasized the significance of such platforms in bridging the gender gap. The awardees, selected through a rigorous process, represented sectors ranging from retail, education, and media to manufacturing, social service, and healthcare. Their success stories are not just individual triumphs but collective milestones in the larger journey towards gender parity in Jammu & Kashmir. The global theme for this year’s Women’s Day underlines the importance of gender-inclusive policies, economic participation, and social empowerment. Jammu & Kashmir, despite its unique socio-political landscape, has witnessed an inspiring shift in women’s roles, with an increasing number stepping into leadership positions, entrepreneurial ventures, and public service. However, challenges persist, and initiatives like the ASSOCHAM J&K Women Achievers Awards must be complemented by long-term strategic interventions that ensure women’s contributions translate into sustainable impact. Financial independence remains a cornerstone of women’s empowerment, and facilitating access to credit, market linkages, and skill development programs can further strengthen their role in the region’s economic framework. The government’s role in enabling an ecosystem where women entrepreneurs can thrive is imperative, and while awards serve as motivation, structured economic incentives and policy reforms must follow suit. The significance of acknowledging women achievers extends beyond individual recognition; it creates role models for future generations. In a region where traditional norms have often limited women’s mobility and economic participation, visible success stories challenge stereotypes and encourage more women to break barriers. The awardees, through their perseverance and accomplishments, inspire young girls to envision careers beyond conventional roles. This cultural shift is crucial in altering mindsets and fostering an environment where ambition is not curtailed by gender biases. Among the awardees, individuals like Rohini Aima, recognized in the education sector, and Namrata Modi, acknowledged for her contribution to manufacturing, exemplify the diverse impact women have across industries. Their journeys are marked by resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Similarly, the recognition of women in social service, beauty, wellness, and media underscores the multifaceted roles they play in shaping society. Each awardee’s story serves as a narrative of determination, challenging the notion that gender should dictate professional choices or societal contributions. While recognition and encouragement are vital, the dialogue must extend to tangible measures that address systemic barriers hindering women’s progress. Despite significant advancements, women in Jammu & Kashmir continue to face challenges in accessing education, employment opportunities, and leadership roles. Economic disparities, social norms, and security concerns often act as deterrents to women’s active participation in the workforce. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach that includes policy support, financial incentives, and attitudinal changes within society. ASSOCHAM J&K’s initiative represents a critical step toward advancing gender equity, serving as a foundation for broader economic and social reforms. The private sector, in partnership with the government, holds significant potential to enhance women’s participation in industries traditionally dominated by men. Key strategies include fostering women-led start-ups, promoting digital literacy, and ensuring equitable representation in decision-making roles. Institutional mechanisms, such as flexible work policies, are essential to support work-life balance and sustain women’s professional engagement. The media plays a pivotal role in reshaping societal narratives by amplifying women’s achievements, normalizing female leadership, and influencing public discourse and policy debates. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives focused on education, skill development, and entrepreneurship can further amplify these efforts. Beyond annual recognition, sustained progress requires industry-led mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and investments in women-centric enterprises.

International Women’s Day is not just a day of celebration but a reminder of the work that remains in achieving gender parity. The ASSOCHAM J&K Women Achievers 2025 Awards have set a precedent, but the journey towards equitable economic and social growth is ongoing. The stories of these remarkable women must not only be celebrated but also used as catalysts for policy dialogues, economic reforms, and societal transformations.