DAGGER DIVISION / KALAPAHAR BRIGADE / BAJRANG BATTALIONSKILL DEVELOPMENT CONVOCATION CEREMONY EMPOWERS YOUTH AND WOMEN IN URI, KASHMIR

Venue: Uri, Kashmir Date: 29 October 2026

1. In a significant step towards youth empowerment, women’s skill development and sustainable livelihood generation, the event celebrated the successful completion of vocational training by 50 trainees, comprising 30 Chef Bakery trainees and 20 Fashion Designing and Hand Embroidery trainees, marking an important milestone in their journey towards self-reliance and economic independence.

2. The convocation ceremony recognised the dedication, perseverance and achievements of the trainees, who were awarded certificates upon successful completion of their respective courses. The initiative aims to equip local youth, particularly women, with practical, industry-aligned skills and enhance their employability, entrepreneurial potential and access to sustainable livelihood opportunities in the region.

3. A key highlight of the programme was the “Voices of the Youth” session, during which trainees shared their learning experiences, personal journeys, challenges and aspirations. 

4. The collaborative initiative by IHCL, the Indian Army and REACHA represents a concerted effort to strengthen the socio-economic fabric of border communities. By promoting specialised training in bakery, fashion designing and hand embroidery, the programme seeks to empower individuals to secure employment, establish small-scale enterprises and contribute towards the financial well-being of their families. Particular emphasis on skill development for women reinforces their role as active contributors to household prosperity and community development.

5. The initiative reflects a shared commitment to bridging the skill-employment gap, facilitating market linkages and nurturing a culture of self-reliance among the youth of Uri. Through sustained collaboration, the Indian Army and its partners continue to create avenues for constructive engagement, economic empowerment and inclusive development in border areas.

6. A presentation was also delivered by Mission YUVA, highlighting various benefits, initiatives and schemes offered by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir to promote entrepreneurship, self-employment and livelihood generation among youth. The presentation familiarised the trainees with available government support mechanisms and encouraged them to explore opportunities for establishing their own ventures and becoming financially self-reliant. 

7. The convocation ceremony reaffirmed the Indian Army’s commitment to youth empowerment, women’s upliftment and nation building through skill development. Such initiatives strengthen civil–military bonhomie, foster hope and aspiration among local communities, and contribute towards building a skilled, confident and self-reliant generation in Uri, Kashmir.