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Supporting dignity and social security for women through welfare initiatives. Promoting community cooperation, empowerment centres, and financial assistance. Strengthening families through marriage support schemes and social awareness. Building a more inclusive and progressive society through women’s participation.
Women have always played a vital role in shaping families and strengthening communities. Their contribution goes far beyond household responsibilities, as they actively participate in social welfare, community support, and development initiatives. In Jammu and Kashmir, women engagement has gradually increased through various government schemes, community participation, and awareness programs that aim to support families and empower women socially and economically. Marriage is considered one of the most important occasions in society. However, for many families belonging to economically weaker sections, arranging a marriage can sometimes become financially challenging. Recognizing this concern, the government has introduced several welfare initiatives that aim to reduce the financial burden on families and ensure that marriages take place with dignity and respect. One of the most significant initiatives in this regard is the State Marriage Assistance Scheme, which provides financial assistance to poor and unmarried girls belonging to Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority Household (PHH) ration cardholder families. Eligible girls who are 18 years of age or above can receive financial assistance ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹75,000. The amount is transferred directly to the beneficiary through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring transparency and timely delivery of benefits. Applications for this scheme are generally submitted online through the Jan Sugam Portal, usually at least one month before the scheduled wedding. The process requires basic documents such as a birth certificate, Aadhaar card, ration card, and a marriage invitation card. Another important welfare initiative is provided by the Jammu and Kashmir Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board, which offers marriage assistance for the daughters or dependents of registered construction workers. Financial assistance ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹75,000 may be provided under this initiative, helping labor families manage marriage expenses with dignity and financial security. Apart from financial assistance, several centers and support systems have been established to protect and empower women. The One Stop Centre (Sakhi) provides integrated services such as medical assistance, legal aid, counselling, and temporary shelter for women facing distress or difficult situations. These centers ensure that women receive immediate help and support whenever they face challenging circumstances. Similarly, the District Hub for Empowerment of Women works to strengthen women’s participation in social and economic activities. These centers provide support related to skill development, employment opportunities, health awareness, and access to government welfare schemes. Through these initiatives, women are encouraged to become more confident and self-reliant. Economic empowerment of women is also promoted through the Jammu and Kashmir Women’s Development Corporation, which provides training programs, financial assistance, and loan facilities for women entrepreneurs. Many women have benefited from these initiatives by starting small businesses and contributing positively to their family income. Women engagement is also clearly visible at the grassroots level. In many communities, women form self-help groups where they save small amounts of money regularly and support each other during times of need. These groups often assist families during marriages by contributing small financial support or helping with arrangements such as preparing traditional food and organizing ceremonies. Such collective efforts strengthen the spirit of cooperation and unity within society. Another important channel of women engagement is social awareness and interaction. Anganwadi Centers play an important role in spreading awareness about government welfare schemes and women-related programs. Through community meetings and local interactions, many families become aware of various initiatives that support women and girls. The positive impact of these initiatives can also be observed through recent statistics. In the year 2024–25, more than 28,000 women benefited through the Hub for Empowerment of Women network across Jammu and Kashmir. In addition, over 44,301 beneficiaries were covered under marriage assistance schemes as of February 2026, which reflects the wide reach and effectiveness of these welfare initiatives. There are also some important objectives behind women engagement programs and welfare schemes. These initiatives are designed not only to provide financial support but also to promote dignity, equality, and social security for women. They aim to support economically weaker families, encourage responsible social practices, and create opportunities for women to become more confident and independent. Through empowerment centers, training programs, and welfare schemes, the government and community organizations are working together to strengthen the role of women in society.
Some suggestions can also be considered in order to strengthen these initiatives further. Awareness about government schemes should be increased, particularly in rural and remote areas where many families may not have complete information about the available benefits. Community organizations, educational institutions, and local leaders can organize awareness campaigns and discussions that help people understand these welfare programs. Encouraging simple and dignified marriages can also reduce financial pressure on families and promote social harmony. At the same time, strengthening women’s self-help groups and community networks can create stronger support systems that assist families during important social events .At last, it can be said that women engagement in Jammu and Kashmir has become an important force for social progress and community welfare. Through marriage assistance schemes, empowerment centers, financial programs, and community cooperation, women are helping families and strengthening the values of compassion, dignity, and social responsibility. Their participation not only supports families during important life events but also contributes to building a more inclusive and progressive society.
Educator Poet Writer : rommykaur099@gmail.com
