Dehradun, 21st November: Pilgrimage and tourism have emerged as powerful tools for the economic upliftment of women in Uttarakhand. Through the Uttarakhand State Rural Livelihood Mission (USRLM), women self-help groups (SHGs) have made significant strides in improving their financial standing.

In the current financial year, women-led SHGs have sold merchandise worth ₹91.75 lakh through 110 Yatra Outlets located along the Char Dham Yatra routes and key tourist destinations, generating a net profit of ₹29.7 lakh.

Operated by the Rural Development Department, these Yatra Outlets provide a platform for rural women to market their handmade woollens, pahadi spices, organic pickles, millet-based food items, and souvenirs. Highlighting their dual role, Secretary of Rural Development, Ms. Radhika Jha, stated:
“Yatra Outlets not only empower women economically but also play a critical role in preserving and promoting Uttarakhand’s cultural heritage.”

Spread of Yatra Outlets Across Districts:

• Chamoli: 16
• Dehradun: 2
• Haridwar: 11
• Nainital: 10
• Pauri: 15
• Rudraprayag: 15
• Tehri: 20
• Uttarkashi: 21

These outlets create a vital link between 5 lakh women organized into 67,172 SHGs across 95 blocks in 13 districts under USRLM. Additionally, the state government facilitates product sales through Saras and growth centres. To further enhance opportunities, eight millet bakery units have been established with the support of USRLM.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also encouraged tourists to contribute to the local economy by purchasing local products, urging them to spend at least 5% of their travel budget on such items.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized the government’s commitment to women’s financial independence, stating:
“The government firmly believes that the path to development is incomplete without empowering women. Initiatives such as the Yatra Outlets and the Lakhpati Didi Yojana are vital steps in making women financially self-reliant.”