Bandipora, Oct 28 (KNS): As part of woman empowerment and skilling initiatives undertaken by the Army in Gurez, 16 Ladies who attended stitching course at Udaan Centre, Markut were awarded course completion certificates on behalf of the Snow Leopard Brigade of the Indian Army, the officials said.

In a statement, issued to Kashmir News Service (KNS), a spokesperson said that at present there are eight ladies undergoing the stitching and crewel ling classes at the Rajput Vocational training centre at Dawar and a fresh batch of 15 ladies at Udan Centre, Markut will commence from October 31.

"The main aim behind this initiative is to provide means of livelihood and extra income for the home makers of the valley," reads the statement.

It reads that rhe initiative also aims at preserving the traditional craft of Gurez and showcasing them to the world. "The finished products made by these groups and other self-help groups during the winters will be collected by the Army and further be sold at AWWA shops and at the Log Hut Cafe at Dawar in Gurez."

It reads that this distinct initiative is being very well received by the Awam and is playing an instrumental role in strengthening the bond between the Awam and the Army in Gurez apart from uplifting and skilling the womenfolk of the valley. (KNS)