New Delhi, August 22: The FICCI-FLO Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh’s flagship event, “The Power to Empower: Vibrant Verve, Edition-4,” held in Jammu, has emerged as a strong initiative promoting women entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and local crafts. Women entrepreneurs, artisans, designers, and homemakers from across the country showcased their products and creative works at the event. The aim is to connect women with business opportunities and provide a wider market for their products.
During the event, Varsha Bansal, Chairperson of FICCI-FLO JKL, expressed excitement about this fourth edition, highlighting the addition of a lifestyle exhibition with a social purpose. She noted that around 45 exhibitors from across the country participated, with a special emphasis on local artisans and handicraft artists.
“This event has received tremendous support from the public. As this is a special edition for Raksha Bandhan, we want to convey the message that if you are looking to buy a special gift for your brother or sister, FICCI-FLO’s Vibrant Verve Edition-4 is a great platform,” she stated.
Meanwhile, Babila Rakhwal, Commissioner-Secretary of the Science and Technology Department, praised this initiative, stating that FICCI-FLO is a significant organization working for women and that this program is set to expand throughout the Jammu and Kashmir region.
She emphasized that this major event provides women entrepreneurs, artisans, and local women an opportunity to showcase their products and regional art. The stalls set up at the exhibition are helping women connect with customers and markets nationwide.
“This is a beautiful and empowering initiative. The government is particularly focused on women-related schemes, but when women actively participate in other development programs and community initiatives, it strengthens inclusive growth. Today, women’s cooperatives and groups are receiving more encouragement than ever,” Rakhwal added.
Anusuya Jamwal, ADC of Jammu, remarked that the fourth edition of Vibrant Verve offers a fantastic opportunity for women to showcase their talents. She noted that women from diverse backgrounds, including artisans, designers, homemakers, and young entrepreneurs, come together on this platform.
“The role of women in the development of any country’s economy is crucial. Women contribute significantly not only to economic growth but also to social and financial progress. For a country to advance, it is essential to provide opportunities and empowerment to its female population,” she stated.
Shiny Sharma, associated with the Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA) in Udhampur, mentioned that women’s empowerment is not just a means to earn income but also strengthens women’s confidence, personality development, and social participation.
“When we talk about empowerment, it is not limited to earning money. It brings about positive changes in women’s personalities and increases their contribution to nation-building alongside their families,” she said.
She noted that this year, AWWA is celebrating its 60th anniversary, and the organization has provided several women entrepreneurs the opportunity to participate in this exhibition. According to her, every year, FICCI-FLO brings new ideas and energy to its programs, allowing women to move forward.
Meanwhile, Dr. Ritu Singh, founding chairperson of FICCI-FLO Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, expressed her happiness at the organization’s progress over the past five years. She congratulated the entire FLO family, stating that a large number of young women are stepping into entrepreneurship.
She mentioned that many young women have started their startups in fields like bakery, textiles, jewelry, event management, and digital marketing. It is commendable to see young women actively participating in the country’s economic progress.
Dr. Singh added, “These young women are the future of the country. When girls step forward to start their businesses and create job opportunities, it directly contributes to the country’s development.”
She also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that various schemes initiated for women and youth, along with support for the MSME sector, have opened new avenues for entrepreneurship.
Deependra Singh Chundawat is a Senior Sub-Editor at Udaipur Kiran, specializing in a wide range of technology topics including mobile phones, applications, gaming, PCs, and wearables. Along with covering the latest tech news, he also creates engaging web stories. Passionate about emerging technologies, he stays up to date with the newest trends and enjoys reading and writing about the latest mobile launches and digital innovations.