SRINAGAR: Amid the tranquil landscapes of North Kashmir’s Lolab Valley, the Chandigam Youth Upliftment and Vocational Association (YUVA) Centre is rewriting the narrative of empowerment and development in remote regions. Established in 2007 by the Indian Army as one of the first vocational training initiatives in the region, the centre has now evolved into a fullfledged cooperative society fostering entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and sustainable growth. Once focused solely on skill development in fields like hotel management, tailoring, stitching, and basic computer training, the centre underwent a major transformation in March 2025.Â
With support from the Indian Army, Pune-based NGO ASEEM Foundation, and Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited, the centre transitioned into an entrepreneurial cooperative, creating real-time employment opportunities for its own graduates. One of the standout initiatives is Kazhni, a women-led handicraft brand combining traditional Kaani and Sozni embroidery styles.
Currently, 68 young women and their mentors produce a range of high-quality handembroidered products such as curtains, rugs, cushion covers, and ethnic apparel. The centre also functions as a co-working space for local boutique owners and designers, promoting community collaboration and scaling up production.
A modern computer lab, offering skills-based digital literacy programs under the Maharashtra Education Society’s Skill Development Programme, further equips local youth with essential IT skills.
Over 20 young girls are currently enrolled, gaining competencies for employment and freelance work. From skill-building to entrepreneurship, the Chandigam YUVA Centre is now a thriving ecosystem of innovation and cooperative spirit.
Under the guidance of the Indian Army, it stands as a model for community-led development, demonstrating how targeted interventions can drive long-term transformation in Kashmir’s most remote areas.
