Srinagar, Aug 10: North Kashmir’s Kupwara district has come a long way from a history of militancy and stone-pelting to embracing patriotism. The sons of the soil 160 Inf Bn (TA) (H&H) JAK RIF, famously known as Kupwara Terriers and the Guardians of the North have worked relentlessly to maintain peace and harmony under the aegis of Vajr Division of Chinar Corps.
The Indian Army has identified empowerment of women the pillars of every family as the route to sustained peace. Skill Development Centres (SDCs) were established at Kunan Poshpora and Kawari villages. During the Mission Tiranga Campaign, the women of these SDCs prepared more than 12,000 National Flags, beautifully embellished with the Kashmiri hand-crocheted Ashok Chakra.
The success story of these women gained nationwide recognition and was mentioned in the Prime Minister’s Mann Ki Baat. Inspired by their entrepreneurial journey, more women came forward to learn and craft their path to self-sustenance. Subsequently, a cooperative society named “Flag Women of Kupwara” (FLWOK) was established, comprising 12 SDCs and approximately 140 women. Philanthropist Ms. Uma Maskai has provided vision, support, and guidance since its inception, with the Indian Army offering all necessary assistance to bring this venture into the spotlight.
The “Threads of Change” moment was witnessed during the CII Young India Event in Mumbai on July 18-19, 2025, where FLWOK women were felicitated by Union Minister for Culture & Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Bollywood actor Jackie Shroff. They showcased their entrepreneurial spirit, innovative ideas, and leadership skills, making a strong impact at the conclave. Their participation provided valuable insights into entrepreneurship, finance, and networking with industry experts.
FLWOK also proudly represented Kupwara at the Chinar Book Festival in Srinagar on August 6, 2025, under the aegis of Vajr Division. The festival provided a platform to display their work and promote the mission’s objectives of “Promoting Women Empowerment and Entrepreneurship in Northern Borders of Jammu & Kashmir.” Their presence helped raise awareness about empowering women, fostering entrepreneurship, and driving community development.
In the future, Vajr Division intends to support more such self-help groups to uplift women’s status in Kupwara. The aim is to take the FLWOK model to every corner of Kashmir, enabling more women to get trained, join the initiative, and achieve financial independence.
