DH NEWS SERVICE
jammu, Nov 30
The Indian Army, under its flagship civil outreach programme Operation Sadbhavna, organised the closing ceremony of the Stitching and Tailoring Course for women at Galuthi village in Rajouri district on 30 November 2025. The event marked the successful culmination of a meaningful two-month initiative aimed at strengthening women’s empowerment, promoting self-reliance, and creating sustainable livelihood avenues for women residing in remote border areas.
A total of 35 women-comprising both participants and the course instructor-completed the programme. Over the duration of the training, the women were introduced to essential stitching techniques, tailoring fundamentals, and practical applications necessary to begin their own micro-enterprises. The course was meticulously structured to ensure that even those with no prior experience could learn new skills efficiently, enabling them to contribute economically to their households and gain financial independence.
During the ceremony, all participants were awarded National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) Certificates, validating their newly acquired skills at a national level. In a highly appreciated gesture, each participant was also provided with a sewing machine by the Indian Army. This support ensures that the women can immediately begin tailoring work from their homes or start small business ventures in their locality, thus translating training into livelihood opportunities without delay.
Local villagers, community elders, and family members of the participants attended the ceremony and expressed immense gratitude for the Indian Army’s continuous dedication to community upliftment. Residents highlighted that such initiatives under Operation Sadbhavna have become transformational forces in the region, especially for women who often face limited access to skill-enhancement programmes due to geographical challenges, financial constraints, or social restrictions.
Community members also emphasized the critical role of civil-military cooperation in fostering long-term socio-economic progress. They appreciated the Army’s consistent efforts in encouraging women to step forward, learn new skills, and contribute confidently to society. Many lauded the enthusiasm, discipline, and commitment displayed by the trainees throughout the course, noting that their dedication demonstrated how empowerment can truly begin at the grassroots level.
The participants, filled with pride and happiness, shared heartfelt messages of gratitude toward the Indian Army. They expressed that the course had not only provided them with practical skills but had also instilled confidence, leadership, and a renewed sense of purpose. Several women mentioned that the sewing machines and certificates have given them a strong foundation to start tailoring units, take up independent work, and support their families more effectively.
Such initiatives reflect the Indian Army’s holistic approach toward nation-building, going far beyond its traditional role of maintaining security. Through sustained efforts like skill-development programmes, medical camps, youth engagement activities, and educational support, the Army continues to strengthen its bond with the people of border regions. These activities build trust, enhance mutual cooperation, and contribute to a peaceful and progressive social environment.
The Stitching and Tailoring Course at Galuthi stands as a shining example of how targeted community-oriented efforts can create long-lasting impact.
It demonstrates the Army’s commitment to ensuring that the women of rural and remote areas are not left behind in the journey toward development. By equipping them with vocational skills, resources, and encouragement, the Indian Army is helping them shape a secure, self-reliant, and dignified future.
This closing ceremony not only celebrated skill attainment but also reinforced a powerful message: empowering women empowers communities. The Indian Army, through Operation Sadbhavna, continues to champion this mission with dedication and compassion.
