“We started from zero and are now determined to help women like us make an independent living”

Unlike many other girls her age, marriage isn’t top priority for Khairunnisa, 22, a resident of Hanjikhello Gangoo village in Pulwama.

Instead, her energies are focused on Masooma, a rapidly expanding milk cooperative. Khairunnisa is the head of this enterprising self-help group (SHG), run by 10 women. With eyes sparkling and chin set with determination, she says, “We started from zero and are now determined to help women like us earn an independent living. We are now keen to set up a milk products factory and create a mini white revolution like Amul. Then we’ll think of marriage.”