The Indian army has established a skill development centre for the local women in the border village of North Kashmir's Gurez sector, which is close to the Line of Control. The Gurez Valley is the ideal location, according to the Indian army, for the skill development centre. These women are receiving training in a variety of skills to help them become independent while overlooking the Habba Khatoon Peak.
The poet from the 16th century known as "The Nightingale of Kashmir," Habba Khatoon, is highly revered in Kashmiri folklore. And these women could not have had a greater source of inspiration. These women receive training in a variety of subjects, such as computing, sewing, and other subjects.
The Indian army's primary goal is to make them independent so they can launch their own businesses. The women enrolled in these classes are appreciative that the Indian army opened a skill-development centre in the Gurez valley.
''This is a great opportunity for us and benefits all of us. Skill development is very important in a world where everything is digital. We are coming out of depression because of this institute, most of us had completed our studies and didn't have a job; now, we can spend our time with each other and learn a skill. We are not wasting our time any more and also becoming independent. The Indian army has always provided a great platform for the people who live in remote areas, and they continue to do so today. We are very grateful for the Indian army," a student named Saima said.
Due to persistent ceasefire violations from the other side of the border for many years, North Kashmir's bordering communities have experienced a great deal of violence. During these violations, hundreds of people were killed and hurt. Numerous homes and other buildings suffered damage. The unstable environment has caused significant suffering for the women in these locations. These individuals are now leading regular lives as a result of the ceasefire accord between India and Pakistan last year.
This centre will give these women wings to fly. The area generally gets cut off after the first snowfall in April and people living in these areas, especially women, do have not much to do. Their ability to communicate with one another has also been aided by this skill development centre.
''I want to thank the Indian army for opening this centre. It gave us a great opportunity, we were sitting at home and not doing anything. But now we are learning various skills. Earlier, we used to sit idle at home during winters as well. Now we have a skill and an institute to come and learn and earn from.'' said Roshni, a student.
The Indian army has made great efforts to launch these kinds of programmes for the women who live in these border regions. In numerous locations close to the Line of Control, such centres have opened in large numbers.
