UDHAMPUR: The District Administration of Udhampur has brought pride to the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir by winning the prestigious SKOCH Award 2025 for its innovative Didi Ki Rasoi initiative under the National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM).
The award, presented at the Habitat Centre in New Delhi, recognized Udhampur’s exemplary efforts in women empowerment and community service. Implemented by the District Urban Development Agency (DUDA) Udhampur under the Housing and Urban Development Department (H&UDD), the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to social welfare, inclusive development, and empowering women.
Conceptualized under the guidance of District Development Commissioner Saloni Rai, Didi Ki Rasoi has created a sustainable model that empowers Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by providing livelihood opportunities while delivering nutritious, hygienic, and affordable meals to the community.
Project Officer DUDA, Jaffar Abass Batt, who accompanied the DDC to New Delhi, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders and highlighted the pivotal role of the DDC in sanctioning and supporting the establishment of Didi Ki Rasoi canteens across the district.
Currently, canteens have been successfully established at the Government College for Women (GCW), DC Office Complex, Government Degree College (GDC) Boys, and Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Ramnagar. With growing popularity, more canteens are planned, and the model is being replicated in other districts of Jammu & Kashmir, enhancing both social and economic impact.
The initiative not only ensures food security at subsidized rates but also provides dignified income avenues for women-led SHGs, promoting skill development, social inclusion, and women’s empowerment.
The SKOCH Award 2025 stands as a proud recognition for District Udhampur, underscoring the effectiveness of collaborative governance under NULM in driving tangible grassroots change.
