In a significant boost to self-employment initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir, 35 educated unemployed youth from Rajouri district have embarked on a transformative journey. They’ve enrolled in the Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP) under the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) at the Rural Self Employment Training Institute (RSETI) run by Jammu and Kashmir Bank.
This 10-day intensive training, launched on February 27, is designed to equip participants with essential skills to launch their own micro-enterprises. The program covers critical areas like business management, project report preparation, financial planning, marketing strategies, and securing subsidized bank loans. PMEGP, spearheaded by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), aims to foster job creation in both rural and urban areas by supporting small-scale manufacturing and service ventures.
Director Sunil Sharma of RSETI Rajouri addressed the trainees, emphasizing commitment, punctuality, innovation, and self-confidence as keys to entrepreneurial success. ‘This training is a stepping stone to financial independence and community development,’ he stated. Speaking to the media, Sharma highlighted how the scheme offers loans up to Rs 50 lakh for manufacturing and Rs 20 lakh for services, with up to 35% subsidy, revolutionizing employment landscapes nationwide.
Trainees shared their aspirations. Aarti Sharma, a woman participant, expressed gratitude for the 35% subsidy on her KVIC loan, eager to master business operations. Mukhtar Ahmad, another youth, called the training invaluable for his loan application. Rakesh Raina, already running a small venture, plans to expand into a printing press with a Rs 10 lakh approved loan.
PMEGP’s impact extends beyond individuals, strengthening local economies in border districts like Rajouri. By empowering youth to become job creators, the initiative aligns perfectly with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, promising sustained economic growth and reduced unemployment.