Syed Aaliya
March 8th brings the world together to commemorate the presence and contributions of women. But on this day, women are mostly notremembered with an intersectional approach but keeping in mind women as one single unit. if we look at women’s lives deeply, we find them wrapped in various struggles, disadvantages, and hardships. Black women’s challenges are different from white women’s; poor and elite women have different struggles; abled and disabled women live in different worlds; colonial and post-colonial women have different experiences; and the lives of women living in war zones are vastly different from those living in peaceful societies. This complexity was best described by Kimberly Crenshaw’s idea of “Intersectionality.”
Nowhere is it more evident than in the Kashmiri women. Their hardships have been specifically informed by the many decades of disturbance in the land, which had a deep affect on their lives, both public and private. The Kashmir crisis has not merely resulted in the loss and dispersal of peoples but has, in addition to this, a context in which women are suffering at most from the violence, financial deprivation, and social restrictions. Simultaneously, their narrative is one of empowerment and resilience in which the Indian Army has been a key driver in providing innovative initiatives that have enabled the recovery of agency for Kashmiri women.
Agony of Kashmiri Women
Kashmir has remained a battleground for more than three decades, torn by turmoils, terrorism, and instability. All this has, in disproportionate manner, impacted the women, making them vulnerable to loss, displacement, and violence based on gender. In contrast to women from other conflict situations, the sufferings of Kashmiri women have been multi-layered, intrinsically entwined in the endemic violence that has overrun the region.Many Kashmiri womenlost their brothers, fathers, and husbands to the turmoil and terrorism. Widowed early, they are compelled to become the sole breadwinners, which is quite a challenge in a society where in many places women’s economic involvement is curbed by social norms and patriarchy. The development of the term “half-widows” – women whose husbands went missing – brings yet another depth of suffering. These women remain in a state of constant uncertainty, unable to move on from their situation because of the vagueness of their marital status. The fear of violence, kidnapping, and sexual abuse has psychologically affected Kashmiri women. Most of them have experienced traumatic experiences that have left them emotionally scarred. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety are rampant among Kashmiri women, but mental health care was scarce.
Restricted educational and economic opportunities due to frequent curfews, school shutdowns, and conservative societal norms, led many Kashmiri girls deprived of education. The economic instability in the region further reduced job opportunities, forcing many women into financial dependence. Those who attempt to break barriers and seek employment often face threats from radical elements.Most Kashmiri women have been victims of sexual exploitation by terrorist outfits and insurgent groups and absence of robust legal frameworks to deal with these issues further fuelled their agony.
Role of Indian Army in Empowering Kashmiri Women
In the middle of all this adversity, the Indian Army has also come across as a surprise friend in empowering Kashmiri women. The Army, traditionally seen in terms of security, has expanded its role to encompass social progress, especially in conflict-torn areas. A number of pioneering projects have assisted women in Kashmir in becoming resilient and taking back their lives.
In understanding the importance of education and skill acquisition, the Indian Army has initiated several educational and vocational training institutions in Kashmir. Programs such as the Army Goodwill Schools offer free or low-cost education to children, especially girls, so that they can escape the cycle of illiteracy and poverty. Skill development courses in tailoring, computer literacy, and handicrafts have made women financially independent.The Army has launched self-employment schemes, motivating women towards financial independence. In association with NGOs, they have assisted in the formation of women-owned cooperatives for age-old Kashmiri crafts such as Pashmina weaving and embroidery. These activities not only contribute to financial independence but also promote the preservation of Kashmiri heritage.
In response to the mental and physical trauma that Kashmiri women have suffered, the Army has established medical camps and psychological counseling centers. These centers provide healthcare facilities, maternity services, and trauma counseling, enabling women to rebuild their lives after decades of conflict.The Army has also been instrumental in promoting women’s involvement in sports, conducting tournaments and coaching budding Kashmiri girls in football, martial arts, and other activities. These programs empower young girls and challenge existing gender roles in the region.
Community Interaction and Confidence-Building programs have beenexercised through different outreach programs, the Army has endeavoured to regain trust and interaction with the community. Programs like “Operation Sadbhavana” are designed to win hearts and minds by redressing grievances, promoting peace-building at grassroots levels, and enabling women to be active participants in determining their own futures.
Kashmiri women’s struggle is distinctive, moulded by several decades of unrest and conflict. Their struggle extends beyond conventional gender discrimination, since they have had to deal with the intricacies of violence, displacement, and loss. Nevertheless, their tale is not one of mere endurance but also one of empowerment and resilience. The Indian Army, which is otherwise seen as an agency of security, has been a catalyst in empowering such women through education, vocational skills, healthcare, and leadership schemes.
As we mark Women’s Day, it is important to acknowledge the varied experiences of women everywhere. Kashmiri women, even in their hardship, are breaking paths of strength and independence. Their story is a strong testament that even in the midst of conflict, empowerment can be achieved through strategic aid, resilience, and community-led initiatives.The Indian Army’sunshakable dedication to the well-being of Kashmiri women is truly worthy of respect and honor. Their efforts have not only changed lives but have also planted the seeds of hope, strength, and development. Their commitment to creating peace and empowerment in Kashmir is a reflection of their service beyond duty, leaving an indelible mark on future generations.
