Ganderbal, Nov 12 (JKNS): The 13th Battalion Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), Dignibal, Ganderbal, organised the inaugural ceremony of a 90-day Cutting and Tailoring Training Programme for 25 women from nearby villages of Dignibal under the Civic Action Programme (CAP)-2026, in collaboration with the NGO Saving the Future, at the Auditorium of SKUAST-Kashmir, Shuhama.
The programme was inaugurated by Sh. Imtiaz Ismail Parray, IPS, DIG, SHQ (Spl-Ops), SSB Srinagar, who attended the occasion as the Chief Guest. The initiative aims to empower local women by equipping them with vocational skills, promoting self-reliance and creating opportunities for sustainable livelihood generation.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Sh. Mukesh Singh Yadav, Commandant, 13th Battalion SSB, Dignibal, who welcomed the Chief Guest, dignitaries, faculty members, guest speakers and participants. In his address, he highlighted SSB’s commitment towards community welfare, women empowerment and strengthening ties between the force and the local population through various Civic Action Programme initiatives.
During the inaugural ceremony, the Chief Guest formally inaugurated the training programme and appreciated the efforts of 13th Battalion SSB and the NGO Saving the Future for undertaking the initiative for women from nearby villages. He encouraged the participants to make the best use of the opportunity and acquire skills that would help them become economically independent and self-reliant.
Dr. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-Kashmir, also addressed the gathering and appreciated the efforts of SSB in organising community-oriented welfare activities in collaboration with educational institutions.
Prof. Riaz Ahmad Shah, FVSc & AH, SKUAST-K, Dr. Ajaz A. Malik, along with guest speakers Dr. Mehar Rather and Advocate Barkat Kour, also addressed the participants and highlighted the importance of vocational education, skill development, entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment. They motivated the women to utilise the training effectively and explore opportunities for self-employment.
On the occasion, the 13th Battalion SSB also organised an awareness programme for students and youth at SKUAST-Kashmir, Shuhama, to encourage young women to join the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).
The participants were briefed about career opportunities, the roles and responsibilities of CAPFs and the contribution of women in the security forces. The initiative aimed to inspire young women to consider careers in the CAPFs and serve the nation with dedication and commitment.
The programme reflects the continued efforts of the 13th Battalion SSB towards women empowerment, youth motivation, skill development and community welfare. Such initiatives play an important role in promoting self-reliance, generating livelihood opportunities and fostering mutual trust and cooperation between SSB and the local community. (JKNS)
