Army Support Boosts Women’s Empowerment in Bandipora Locals Express Gratitude

By Wani Majid

Bandipora August 10,2026 :- In a significant step towards women’s empowerment and menstrual hygiene awareness, a group of young women from Bandipora has established a sanitary pad manufacturing unit near at Army Goodwill School (AGS) Hajin, with the support of the Indian Army’s Rashtriya Rifles unit.

The initiative aims to promote menstrual hygiene, provide access to clean and quality sanitary products, create livelihood opportunities and encourage girls and women to become self-reliant.Local girls and residents expressed their gratitude to the Indian Army for extending support to the initiative.

They said the Army has consistently stood by the local community and supported various initiatives aimed at youth empowerment, women’s welfare and community development.Speaking to the Insight Pluse, Razia Farooq said she has been associated with sanitary pad manufacturing since 2022 and initially operated the unit from her home in Shahgund.

She said the initiative faced several challenges during its early stages, but continued support from the local community encouraged the group to move forward.With assistance from the Indian Army, including the provision of necessary machinery and equipment, the unit has now been formally established near at Army Goodwill School Hajin, providing the young women with an opportunity to expand their work and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Razia Farooq also appealed to girls and young women who remain at home to come forward take initiatives, develop their skills and explore self-employment opportunities. She encouraged them to start their own ventures, generate employment and work towards becoming economically independent.

The initiative is being seen as a positive example of community participation and institutional support working together to promote women’s empowerment, dignity, health awareness and self-reliance in the region.