In the quiet village of Trehgam, near the Line of Control in Kashmir’s Kupwara district, a quiet revolution is unfolding. Here, 140 women are stitching not just flags, but futures—transforming threads into triumph with every hand-embroidered Ashoka Chakra.

Key facts

  • 140 women employed across 12 skill development centers
  • Group formed as cooperative society in April 2022
  • Over 4,500 flags delivered since inception
  • Products listed on Government e-Marketplace (GeM)

A Stitch in Time

Known as the Flag Women of Kupwara (FLWOK), this initiative began as an Army-supported cooperative society in April 2022. What sets their tricolours apart? Each flag features distinctive hand-stitched and crewel-embroidered Ashoka Chakras—a mark of craftsmanship that caught the nation’s attention.

“The FLWOK is known for intricate craftsmanship and distinctive hand-stitched and crewel-embroidered Ashoka Chakras on the tricolour, which sets them apart from other commercially available national flags,” a senior army officer said.

Recognition and Reach

Their work hasn’t gone unnoticed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted their efforts during his Mann Ki Baat radio address. More than 4,500 flags have been delivered for campaigns like Har Ghar Tiranga and national celebrations since 2022.

The commercial success landed their products on the Government e-Marketplace portal, opening doors to wider orders and sustained income.

Beyond the Border

Local social worker Sheikh Jamsheed sees the Army’s role here as extension of their duty. “The Army is not only guarding the borders but also consistently focusing on women's empowerment,” he noted. About 30 families now earn their livelihood through the center.

But rights activist Tauseef Ahmad War hopes this model spreads. “This should not remain confined to just one area. It should benefit all of north Kashmir,” he urged.

For now, in a region often defined by conflict, these women are weaving a new narrative—one stitch, one flag, one empowered life at a time.