Geneva, Mar 13: Darakshan Hassan Bhat, President Kashmir Womens Organisation highlighted the growing empowerment of women in Jammu and Kashmir while addressing the 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Speaking at the session, Bhat said the Union Territory has witnessed significant social and economic transformation in recent years, with increasing participation of women in education, entrepreneurship, governance and community leadership. She noted that the female labor force participation rate in Jammu and Kashmir has reached 34.1 percent, which is higher than the national average, reflecting greater access to livelihood opportunities and skill development initiatives.
Highlighting key government interventions, she referred to schemes such as Mission Shakti, which focuses on women’s safety, protection and economic empowerment. Under its various components, thousands of women have received skill training, financial literacy support, legal aid and entrepreneurship assistance. She added that support mechanisms such as One Stop Centers, women helplines and emergency response systems have strengthened institutional support for women facing distress or violence.
Bhat further stated that women across Jammu and Kashmir are increasingly participating in self-help groups, small scale enterprises and local governance structures, enabling them to contribute actively to community development and economic growth. According to her, government backed programs have helped connect thousands of women with micro credit facilities and market linkages, creating new avenues for financial independence. She also pointed out that the extension of national legal protections following the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution of India has strengthened safeguards for women, including laws related to domestic violence, workplace harassment and equal rights.
Emphasizing the broader social impact, Bhat said that improving gender indicators, expanding educational access for girls and strengthening women led initiatives are collectively shaping a more inclusive and progressive social landscape in Jammu and Kashmir. She expressed hope that continued policy support and community participation will further accelerate the pace of women’s empowerment in the region.