Arun Jasrotia
Udhampur :TDD, A group of about 20-25 women from Kah village, in Phalata Panchayat, of Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur District has taken the initiative to become self-reliant by starting a unique business of making cow dung diyas. This initiative is not only empowering women but also contributing to a cleaner environment.
Inspired by the central government’s various schemes aimed at empowering rural women, especially economically, the women of Kah village have found a sustainable and eco-friendly way to earn a livelihood. They collect cow dung from a local dairy farm owned by Manohar Lal Sharma and transform it into beautiful diyas.
Traditionally, cow dung was often discarded as waste. However, Sharma saw an opportunity to utilize this natural resource and empower the women in his village. By providing them with the necessary training and resources, he has helped them establish a small-scale cottage industry.
The women work diligently to create these diyas, which are not only aesthetically pleasing but also have environmental benefits. Burning cow dung diyas is considered more eco-friendly than traditional oil lamps or candles, as it releases fewer harmful pollutants into the air. Additionally, the leftover diyas can be used as organic fertilizer, promoting sustainable agriculture.
With Diwali around the corner, the demand for these handmade diyas is increasing. The women are working round the clock to meet the growing orders. They believe that by promoting the use of cow dung diyas, they can contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.
The women’s efforts have caught the attention of Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Dr. Jitendra Singh, who has praised their initiative on social media. He highlighted the importance of promoting eco-friendly practices and empowering women at the grassroots level.
The success of this initiative has inspired other women in the region to start similar ventures. By creating a market for locally produced, eco-friendly products, these women are not only improving their economic conditions but also contributing to the preservation of traditional crafts and rural livelihoods.TDD
