Mission Director, Jammu Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission (JKRLM), Indu Kanwal Chib, on Friday inaugurated Dogra Haat- "DOGRAY DA KHANA " an outlet of women Self Help Group (SHGs), at Mand west Manthal ,Udhampur.
District Development Council Member, Tikri Ashu Sharma, Block Development Council Chairman, Tikri, Nisha Sharma, Sarpanch Mand West, Arjun Singh were present on the occasion.Pertinently, Dogra Haat is an initiative by JKRLM to provide a platform to rural women to showcase and sell their products and promote entrepreneurship among women and empower them economically.
It will be run and managed by around 20 Self Help Group members of JKRLM where people can enjoy Dogra food recipes such as Maki ki Roti , Udhampur's famous Kalardi , Sarson Da Sag among other Dogra delicacies.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Mission Director,JKRLM Indu Kanwal Chib expressed her appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the women involved with the Dogra Haat. She stressed the importance of such initiatives in promoting women empowerment and enhancing the rural economy.
She emphasized the importance of promoting local cuisine and supporting women entrepreneurship for the overall development of the region and said that this initiative aims to foster economic growth and empower local SHGs through entrepreneurial opportunities and community development.
Highlighting the essence of Dogra cuisine, the Mission Director said that Dogra Haat brings together a curated menu where the star attraction is none other than the renowned Udhampur's famous Kalari, prepared and served by local SHGs".
In addition to Kalari, the Dogra Haat offers a diverse range of traditional Dogra dishes, prepared by skilled SHGs who have honed their expertise over the years. From mouthwatering snacks to sumptuous main courses, the menu promises to tantalize taste buds and transport visitors to the heart of Dogra culture, she added
Adding further, she said that "Dogra Haat" is not only a place to savor the authentic flavors of Dogra cuisine but also an avenue to uplift local communities and promote sustainable livelihoods. This outlet aims to attract both locals and tourists, offering a unique culinary experience rooted in the rich heritage of Udhampur.
In addition to serving delicious meals at Dogra Haat , the SHGs associated with "Dogra Haat" will also offer tiffin services for individuals and families in the area and this will provide a convenient and hassle-free option for those looking for homemade dogra food with a traditional touch, she maintained .She emphasized the significance of Dogra Haat as a platform that not only supports the growth of small businesses but also becomes a focal point for strengthening social ties within the community.
Dogra Haat is a tribute to the flourishing culture and diverse culinary traditions of the Dogra community and it provides a platform for renowned SHGs to showcase their culinary skills as well as promote the delectable flavors of Dogra cuisine and the famous Udhampur's Kalari, she added.
While interacting with the SHG members, she emphasized the importance of increasing sales ,generating revenue and ensuring the market's long-term sustainability and highlighted upon them the importance of proper marketing and promotion techniques besides urged upon the members to utilize local community, schools colleges to attract a wider customer base.
She asked the members to actively seek feedback from patrons and adapt their offerings accordingly, ensuring sustainable growth and customer satisfaction.Sarpanch Mand West, Arjun Singh lauded the efforts of the JKRLM in creating opportunities for rural women and emphasized the role of such initiatives in reducing poverty and improving the standard of living in the District .
He assured the members full support from the Government in their endeavor and urged the local to visit Dogra Haat and support the rural women.Among the others present at the inaugural ceremony included District Programme Managers Udhampur, Dr Imran, Vikas Singh , Block programme Manager Chenani, Dr Mir Mubarak, Block Programme Manager Basntgarh, Naresh Mathur, Block programme Manager Udhampur, Kripal Singh, MIS Block Chenani, Khurshid Ahmad besides SHG members of Umeed JKRLM.