Empowering Tribal Women: The Role of Self-Help Groups in Economic Advancement in Rajouri District of Jammu and Kashmir

Abstract

The total development of a country is possible only when every section of society develops. The condition of the rural women of India is not good. One of the most important development agendas worldwide is the generation of livelihoods for the rural poor. The rural women in Jammu and Kashmir have been exacerbated in the last three decades because of prevailing militancy. Rural women in these areas have limited access to resources. Most of them are living below the poverty line. The research paper examines the impact of Umeed scheme (Jammu Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission) an initiative taken by the central and state government which aims at empowering disadvantage women for economic empowerment. The research findings emphasis the importance of this scheme in providing sustainable livelihood for uplifting tribal women economy and livelihood options to rural women of Jammu and Kashmir  in far flung and unapproachable areas of Jammu and Kashmir. The findings reveal that Umeed scheme plays a critical role in increasing income of tribal women through Self Help Group approach for economic development among rural women. The study's findings add to the body of knowledge on sustainable livelihoods and financial inclusion of rural women. They also offer insightful information for upcoming efforts to make women economically independent and promote sustainable development in communities that are neglected.