Kupwara’s tribal woman breaks barriers in trout vending
In an inspiring milestone for women entrepreneurship in Jammu and Kashmir, Shakeela Begum has become the first Schedule Tribe (ST) woman to establish her own Bangus Trout Live Fish Vending Centre in Chowkibal, Kupwara.
The initiative falls under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), a flagship scheme aimed at promoting sustainable fisheries development and creating employment avenues across the country.
Expressing her joy and gratitude, Shakeela Begum said, “I am very happy and deeply thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for launching these schemes that have opened new opportunities for people like me.”
Her achievement marks a significant step toward economic empowerment in the region. “We benefited greatly from it. It also inspired others to think they too could do something similar and gain from it,” she added.
Shakeela also extended her heartfelt appreciation to the Department of Fisheries, Kupwara, for their unwavering support throughout her journey. Shakeela said, “We had done similar work before. The department’s staff would visit our place, and then, with their consultations, we took the initiative and began this centre. It has been going well. Many people from our area now come and ask for details—where we brought it from, what we did. We also felt very happy. We saved money and earned a good reputation. It felt really good.”
The live fish vending centre is expected to benefit the local economy by providing fresh Bangus trout to consumers and encouraging more women to pursue entrepreneurship in the fisheries sector.
Shakeela Begum defends her decision to invest in her fish vending business, stating she has willingly given up land and her home for it. Despite criticism, she believes the work brings dignity, income, and stability to her family. She says, “I’ve given land and my home to this. This work brings respect, income, and supports our family. Now my children also help in my work. Their lives are going well.” Shakeela Begum acknowledges that people often say the Gujjar community lacks exposure, but she believes change is possible with the right mindset.
She says, “It’s not just about one vending center. If they take interest, if they are mentally prepared, they can do any work. However, you only learn by going out and seeing the world. If you stay home, nothing changes. When I stepped out, I brought this centre to our place. My children saw me, and now they are on the right path. Everyone should think like this.”
She adds, “People need to pay attention. Only then will they know how to handle these opportunities. The government can’t deliver everything to your doorstep.”
Shakeela’s story stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration for women across Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the transformative impact of government schemes and the resilience of individuals determined to forge their own paths to success.
J & K