By Dr Amjad Hussain & Mr. Mohsin Ali, Faculty, Department of Zoology, Leh Campus, University of Ladakh
On February 21, 2025, the 8-Mountain Division of the Indian Army- a prestigious formation of the Indian Army, operating under the 14 Corps (Fire and Fury Corps) marked a significant milestone in its commitment to community development by inaugurating a Women Empowerment Centre at Sankoo. This initiative aims to provide local women with the tools, resources, and training necessary to achieve economic independence and personal growth.
Sankoo, often referred to as “Ladakh’s Own Gulmarg,” is a picturesque township located approximately 42 kilometers south of Kargil in the Union Territory of Ladakh. Nestled in a bowl-shaped valley with lush green barley fields and scenic beauty, Sankoo has long been a hub of cultural and historical significance in the region. However, like many remote areas, it has faced challenges in providing equal opportunities for women and long struggled with economic challenges. Limited access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities has hindered the growth of its residents, particularly its women folk. Recognizing this, the 8 Mountain Division, known for its valour and strategic prowess, has expanded its mission to include social upliftment. The newly established Women Empowerment Centre is a testament to the Indian Army’s dedication to fostering gender equality and community resilience. The center was conceptualized and spearheaded by Mrs. Shikha Krishnan, Chairperson of the Family Welfare Organization of the 8 Mountain Division, based at Khumbathang, Kargil. Previously she had carried out extensive interactions with local women folk. Members of Army Ex Serviceman Welfare Association, Subdivision Sankoo arranged and proactively facilitated these interactions. During these interaction Mrs. Shikha Krishnan identified key issues affecting social cultural and economic development of womenfolk of Sankoo, more particularly the livelihood opportunities available to them. These discussions highlighted challenges such as lack of employment, skill development opportunities, and financial independence. In response, the officers of the division decided to act on some of these recommendations, with one of the significant initiatives being the establishment of the Centre.
Indian Army has long been engaged in civic-action programs under Operation Sadbhavana to foster socio-economic development in Ladakh. This initiative focuses on infrastructure, healthcare, education, and women’s empowerment through establishment of Women Empowerment Centers (WECs).
These centers are aimed to provide skill-based training to promote financial independence, bridge the gender gap in employment and education, and enhance women’s employability. In Ladakh, particularly in Kargil district, the Indian Army has set up multiple WECs, significantly contributing to the region’s socio-economic progress and empowering women to achieve self-sufficiency.
The centre will offer a range of programs designed to equip women with vocational skills, including tailoring, handicrafts, and computer literacy. Additionally, it will provide access to healthcare workshops, financial literacy training, and counselling services. By addressing both economic and social barriers, the initiative seeks to empower women to become active contributors to their families and communities.
Objective of the Centre
The primary goal of the Women Empowerment Centre, Sankoo is to provide local women with skills and opportunities to enhance their socio-economic status. By imparting training in diverse fields, the center aims to:
- Encourage self-reliance by enabling women to earn a livelihood.
- Provide skill-based education, including stitching, tailoring, embroidery, and computer literacy.
- Enhance financial independence by helping women establish small businesses or secure employment.
- Promote confidence and self-worth among women, empowering them to take charge of their lives.
- Support community development by enabling women to contribute actively to society.
Facilities available at the Centre.
The Women Empowerment Centre is well-equipped with modern amenities to facilitate effective training. The key infrastructure available at the center include:
- Stitching and Tailoring Training
One of the most significant programs offered at the Centre is stitching and tailoring, designed to equip women with both foundational and advanced skills in garment creation.
The training module begins with basic stitching techniques, teaching beginners how to operate sewing machines, handle fabrics, and create simple garments. As participants progress, they will be introduced to advanced tailoring skills, including pattern drafting, precision cutting, and professional garment finishing. By mastering these skills, rural women will also gain financial independence, boost their confidence, and contribute to their households and communities in meaningful ways.
- Computer Literacy
The Centre has infra structure for basic computer literacy to develop and enhance digital proficiency among rural women. These basic trainings cover essential skills such as operating systems, word processing, internet usage, and email communication, as well exploring govt e service facilities. By equipping women with these skills, the Centre aims to bridge the digital divide, improve employability, and open up new opportunities in fields such as data entry, online entrepreneurship, and remote work. This initiative not only empowers women to participate in the digital economy but also fosters confidence and independence in an increasingly technology-driven world.”
Future Prospects of Women Empowering Centre, Sankoo:
- Expansion of Vocational Training: The center plans to introduce advanced skill development programs in digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and modern tailoring techniques. These initiatives will equip women with diverse and competitive skills to thrive in evolving job markets.
- Strengthening Financial Independence: By collaborating with microfinance institutions and self-help groups, the center aims to provide women with better access to financial resources, enabling them to start and sustain their businesses with greater ease.
- Educational and Leadership Development: Efforts will be made to establish scholarships and mentorship programs, encouraging young girls to pursue higher education and leadership roles in their communities.
- Market Linkages and Business Support: The center will facilitate connections between women entrepreneurs and larger marketplaces, including online platforms, to ensure their products gain wider recognition and better economic returns.
The establishment of the Women Empowerment Centre in Sankoo under Operation Sadbhavana is a significant milestone in the journey toward women’s self-reliance and economic independence. Through skill enhancement, financial literacy, and vocational training, the center has given hope and opportunity to the women of Sankoo.
With continued support from the Indian Army, community leaders, and women themselves, this initiative is poised to create lasting change. It not only aligns with the broader goals of social welfare and national development but also highlights the power of collective efforts in empowering women and transforming societies.
