Empowering Women In The Snow-Capped Mountains: USHA Silai School's Impact In Kargil

In the far reaches of Kargil, where the majestic mountains stand as witnesses to resilience, lives are undergoing remarkable transformations. The USHA Silai School initiative, a collaboration between USHA International Limited and local Anganwadi Centers, is sowing the seeds of empowerment among women, creating a quiet yet profound change in the communities.

Meet Ms. Mansura Bano, a visionary whose determination lights the path for others. Located in Sanko, 45 kilometers from Kargil, she is not just an educator at the Anganwadi Center but also a mentor at her USHA Silai School, where she imparts invaluable skills every afternoon.

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Mansura Bano said,

"Our Anganwadi classes for children run from 10 AM to 2 PM. Then, from 2 PM, the girls come here to learn. I manage my time well to teach them until 4 PM."

Through her classes, Mansura goes beyond mere sewing; she empowers women with life skills that she gained from her own training at the USHA Silai School. Her students learn to create cushion covers, bags, and pouches—skills that offer a pathway to sustainable incomes and independence.

Mansura Bano further added,

"Previously, we only knew how to fit ready-made suits. Now, I have learned to make suits, design, and create bags as well. It was challenging initially, but I've made progress with practice."

The USHA Silai School program is not just about teaching a trade; it's a holistic approach to community development, aligning with government goals of skill development and entrepreneurship. By partnering with local entities, these schools uplift marginalized communities across India.

USS Personnel, Shaista said,

"Initially, there was only the Anganwadi Center, but now it has also become a skilling center. Women are coming here to learn new skills, and we see that skills are spreading in the adjacent areas of Kargil."

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Anganwadi Centers serve as crucial hubs for spreading these skills, particularly in remote areas where access to education and training is limited. By making skill development accessible within local neighborhoods, women can pursue their talents without the need for extensive travel.

Anganwadi Coordinator, Sayed Ayoub said,

"There are many people in remote areas who are less educated. Our centers are always at hand, so learning here is very easy, and it is helping to nurture their talents."

This initiative serves a dual purpose: empowering women with essential skills for independence while raising awareness about Usha's skilling initiatives. The positive impact of this collaboration is profound, enabling women to transcend their economic constraints and emerge as leaders in their communities.

Mansura Bano said,

"Since joining the USHA Silai School, our earnings have improved. We have made some products and sold them, which has been very helpful in addition to the honorarium from ICDS."

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From the heart of Kargil, Mansura's journey exemplifies how real transformation occurs. The USHA Silai School initiative is not just an educational effort; it is a movement toward self-reliance and community upliftment. As these women take charge of their destinies, a new era of hope, strength, and resilience unfolds for their communities—one stitch at a time.