In a significant step towards promoting inclusive growth and community empowerment, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has onboarded more than 13 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) for the supply of essential religious materials used in Prasad including raksha sutra (sacred bracelets) and mouli (sacred threads). This initiative is aimed at fostering sustainable livelihoods while simultaneously strengthening grassroots economic structures in the region.
The decision has been taken in pursuance of the directions issued during the 76th Meeting of the Board chaired by Manoj Sinha, Lt. Governor, JK-UT, wherein it was resolved to prioritize procurement from SHGs, women and young local entrepreneurs. The objective is to create a robust platform for local communities to actively participate in the economic ecosystem linked with pilgrimage activities, thereby promoting inclusive growth and sustainable livelihood opportunities in the region.
Notably, each Self-Help Group comprises around 30 to 35 local women and cumulatively, these groups have engaged approximately 450 to 500 women across the region. By actively participating in income-generating activities, these women are making meaningful contributions to their household incomes, thereby improving the overall socio-economic well-being of their families and communities.
The Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB, Shri Sachin Kumar Vaishya stated that by integrating SHGs into the supply chain, the Shrine Board aims to ensure a steady and sustainable source of income for these groups while promoting traditional skills and local craftsmanship. He emphasized that the engagement of SHGs in supplying raksha sutra and mouli items of deep religious significance not only enhances the authenticity and sanctity of the offerings but also provides a meaningful platform for local artisans. He further highlighted that this initiative is particularly empowering for women, who constitute a major share of these groups, enabling them to achieve financial independence and play a more active role in strengthening their household and community economies.
During the last financial year, the Board facilitated income opportunities amounting to approximately ₹3.50 crore for these SHGs, significantly contributing to their economic upliftment. Building upon this commitment, the Board has further resolved to onboard additional SHGs for sourcing Mata’s offerings locally, thereby creating a direct and sustained market for the products prepared by these groups and expanding livelihood opportunities to nearly 1,500 women in the region with an aim at channeling resources back into the local economy, fostering community-driven growth and strengthening grassroots enterprises.
The Shrine Board remains committed to expanding such initiatives in the future, thereby contributing towards sustainable economic growth and reinforcing its role as a catalyst for community development in the region.