The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry Ladies Organisation (FICCI FLO) has announced a significant expansion into Kashmir, marking the first increase in its footprint in the region since the establishment of its Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh chapter in 2021. This initiative signifies a renewed focus on empowering women entrepreneurs and promoting welfare activities within the Valley.
Varuna Anand, former chairperson of the chapter and currently the National Initiative Head for Textiles, Handlooms and Handicrafts at FICCI FLO, addressed a press conference in Srinagar to detail the organization’s plans. As per information available with TahirRihat.com, Anand emphasized that FICCI FLO has already enrolled members from Kashmir and is strategically planning a broader outreach through various entrepreneurship and welfare programs designed to uplift women in the region.
Speaking on behalf of Chapter Chairperson Varsha Bansal, Anand highlighted the importance of this expansion, stating that it marks a pivotal moment for the organization in the region. The move underscores FICCI FLO’s commitment to fostering economic independence and providing a supportive ecosystem for women-led businesses in Kashmir. This expansion aligns with the organization’s larger mission to empower women at the grassroots, entrepreneurial, and leadership levels.
As part of its outreach program, FICCI FLO has announced two significant events to be held in Srinagar. The first is an eye camp specifically organized for artisans and craftsmen at the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT), where over 300 individuals are expected to receive comprehensive eye check-ups. This initiative aims to address the healthcare needs of the artisan community, ensuring their well-being and continued productivity. Eye health is particularly crucial for those involved in intricate crafts, and FICCI FLO’s intervention is designed to directly improve their quality of life.
In addition to the health camp, FICCI FLO is also organizing a “Vibrant Verve Pop-Up” exhibition scheduled for May 17th. This exhibition will serve as a platform for women entrepreneurs to showcase their products, network with potential partners, and promote their businesses. The event is designed to foster collaboration and provide women-led businesses with enhanced visibility in the market. This initiative aims to create opportunities for growth and sustainability for women entrepreneurs in Kashmir.
Arti Chowdhary, the immediate past chairperson of the chapter, also spoke at the press conference, emphasizing the exhibition’s role in supporting women entrepreneurs and further establishing FICCI FLO’s presence in Srinagar. Chowdhary highlighted the organization’s belief in the transformative power of empowering women, noting that empowered women are uniquely positioned to empower others. She further added that the initiative, which commenced in 2023, has already garnered an overwhelming response, demonstrating the strong demand for such support and networking opportunities in the region.
The efforts to expand FICCI FLO’s influence in Kashmir included recruiting extra members inside the location, and 35 people have already signed up to take part in the exhibition (According to Daily Excelsior). The organization is committed to fostering a conducive environment for women to thrive as entrepreneurs and leaders.
Senior Vice-Chairperson Rupika Sahai, along with other members of the organization including Tanisha, Sona Mehta, and Shipra Aggarwal, were also present during the press conference, demonstrating the collective commitment of the organization to this significant expansion. The presence of these key members underscores the unified approach of FICCI FLO towards achieving its goals in the region, as the organization is poised to play an increasingly important role in the economic empowerment of women in Kashmir.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.