Srinagar, July 06 (KINS): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday felicitated 32 recipients of the Kashmir Women’s Organization (KWO) Fellowship at a ceremony held at Lok Bhavan in Srinagar, describing them as symbols of Jammu and Kashmir’s transformation towards a future built on self-confidence, equal opportunities and dignity for all.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said the fellowship recipients had challenged deeply entrenched stereotypes and redefined what is possible for women in the region.
“By challenging deeply entrenched stereotypes, these fellows have redefined what is possible. They embody J&K’s ongoing transformation toward a future built on self-confidence, equal opportunities, and dignity for all,” he said.
He praised the efforts of Dr. Fida Firdous and members of the Kashmir Women’s Organization for creating a platform that enables women to confidently pursue their talent, ideas and aspirations while contributing to the development of Jammu and Kashmir.
Calling women’s empowerment the foundation of a developed Jammu and Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor said, “Women’s empowerment is key to a Viksit J&K; their progress ensures the progress of society.”
Outlining his vision for the Union Territory, he said he envisages a Jammu and Kashmir where women lead in academia, industry, governance and social organisations, shaping policies, driving entrepreneurship and enriching society through art and literature.
“I envision a Jammu Kashmir where every young girl grows up believing that her dreams are valuable, her voice is powerful, and her future holds limitless possibilities,” he added.
The Lieutenant Governor paid tribute to historical icons, including Rani Didda, Kota Rani, Lal Ded, Habba Khatoon and Mata Rupa Bhawani, saying the women of Jammu and Kashmir have always exemplified the highest ideals of Nari Shakti.
He also expressed gratitude to Narendra Modi for empowering the women of Jammu and Kashmir by ensuring equal rights and eliminating discrimination.
Highlighting emerging social challenges, the Lieutenant Governor stressed the need to address substance abuse among women and urged the fellowship recipients to undertake a region-specific study to identify its root causes, saying such research would strengthen rehabilitation efforts and support affected women.
He also commended the mentors who guided the fellows throughout the programme and expressed confidence that the Kashmir Women’s Organization would continue to inspire positive change in the lives of women across the region.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor released the book Panchayati Raj Institutions and Municipal Council in India, authored by Nazrul Islam.
Among those present were Dr. Fida Firdous, President of the Kashmir Writers Association, Darakshan Hassan Bhat, members of the Kashmir Writers Association and Kashmir Women’s Organization, and senior officials.(KINS)
LG felicitates 32 Kashmir Women’s organization fellows, calls women’s empowerment key to viksit J&K
