Around the globe, women are increasingly a part of the startup ecosystem shattering barriers, heading companies, and redefining success. In Kashmir also, a quiet revolution is in progress as capable women walk into entrepreneurship, defying stereotypes and creating a new economy. From fashion and food to agriculture and technology, they are starting businesses that inspire change and inclusivity.

The Jammu and Kashmir startup ecosystem has grown rapidly with DPIIT-registered startups growing from 237 in 2020 to 917 in 2024. Of these, 333 are women-led. More than 1,600 new businesses have also been registered at the Jammu & Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI). Government policies such as the Start-Up Policy 2024–27 and the J&K Start-Up Portal provide important assistance in the form of training, funds, and digital resources.
One sector where women have performed exceptionally well is the fashion and boutique business. Pioneered by Kashmir's dynamic wedding scene, female boutiques are fusing traditional with contemporary design, with remarkable success.
Naira Noor: Fashion Designer from North Kashmir
Another fashion star in town is Naira Noor, also from Sopore. She is the first in her town to have a B.Sc in Fashion Designing and holds an ITI diploma as well. Naira began her boutique in a single room in her home. At first, she couldn't handle clients and even cried. But her brother's words of encouragement "You can do it" motivated her. She is now one of the most successful boutique owners in Sopore and an inspiration to other young women.

Aizau Nissa: Scholar and Stylist

In Srinagar, Aizau Nissa pursued her dreams and launched "Sew in Style by Nissa". A PhD student and a fashion design trainee, Aizau established her business with the help of her mother. Her clothes marry class with contemporary style, and her tale proves that nothing is impossible when supported by the family and working diligently.

Sumaiya Amin: Beauty with Purpose

In the beauty sector, Srinagar's Sumaiya Amin is the name to beat. She opened Beauty Bar Salon in 2007 and has since established herself as a top bridal makeup, skincare, and hair-styling expert. "Women are beautiful by nature, but bringing out their best and empowering them is my job," she maintains. Her salon is not just a company, it's where women become confident.

Hameeda Bano: Dairy Success from Ganderbal

In Kashmir's villages, women are creating enterprises too by tapping into local resources. Hameeda Bano of Ganderbal began with a single cow. With assistance from the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), she now operates a thriving dairy farm and supplies milk to numerous places. Her hard work was also appreciated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Bilqees Bano: Thriving with Mushrooms

Bilqees Bano is from Baramulla, completed her postgraduate studies in Humanities, and chose mushroom cultivation instead of a regular career. Bilqees didn't have a lot of resources but built a sustainable unit that can earn money as well as provide training to other women. "Agriculture isn't just for men," she said, showing that innovation and engagement can sprout even in the most modest land.

Aneesa Iqbal: Student Entrepreneur with a Natural Flair

Aneesa Iqbal, a young student from South Kashmir, is taking her passion and turning it into purpose by making soap, candles, and shampoo from natural ingredients. Both a student and a business person, Aneesa is part of the new trend of young eco-friendly entrepreneurs in the Valley. Her passion and creativity offer inspiration to others to establish sustainable and self-started livelihood activities from home.

Mugli Begum, a 70-year-old farming icon from Sopore

At 70, Mugli Begum from Sopore in North Kashmir will not stop working at her fields. Age does not stop Mugli Begum from being dedicated. If anything, she is a farmer who inspires the great young generation to stay strong, resilient, hard work and love the land. Her story is an inspiration and reminds the youth of the value of hard work and self-reliance.
The tale of Naira, Aizau, Sumaiya, Hameeda, Bilqeesa, Aneesa, and Mugli illustrates that women in Kashmir are not only doing business they are transforming lives. They are assisting others, generating employment, and demonstrating that with assistance and determination, dreams can be made a reality.
Because of the government assistance, digital technologies, and a change in social perception, more women have entered the business world. Whether it is fashion, agriculture, food or technology, they are at the forefront.
Entrepreneurship needs to be promoted among women and men alike. A robust startup ecosystem in the future can only be built with inclusive education, equal access to technology, and long-term mentorship. Entrepreneurship has to be encouraged as a career option by schools and colleges. Banks need to streamline processes for potential entrepreneurs, and society needs to embrace risk-taking and innovation.
The next generation of people whether they are male, female, or something in between should grow up with confidence, creativity and smart thinking they need to become future leaders. A world in which all men and women can dream, create, and prosper will be a future that succeeds together. Our economy is in capable hands headed by leaders who take the reins in writing a new chapter of resilience, creativity, and optimism.

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