Page 251 - Sanidhya 2025

UNIFORM TO ENTREPRENEUR

Empowering Veer Naris and Retired CRPF Families through Startups

A soldier may retire, but the spirit of service never does.
Behind every CRPF jawan stands a family whose silent
strength, unwavering patience, and countless sacrifices KAUSHIK DAS
S/o ASI Shankar Das
form the backbone of national service. When the uniform CRPF Public School, Rohini
is finally folded away, be it through retirement or an
untimely loss, the journey does not end. For many Veer
Naris (war widows) and retired personnel, a new chapter with, resilience, responsibility, and community service.
begins: one of resilience, self-reliance, and renewed Entrepreneurship for CRPF families is not just about
purpose.
financial gain; it’s about carrying forward a legacy of
strength and purpose. It proves that courage does not
In recent years, these families have increasingly turned always wear a uniform, sometimes it runs a kitchen,
toward entrepreneurship—not merely as a means of designs clothes, teaches young minds, or manages an
livelihood, but as a powerful way to reclaim their identity, online platform. These ventures become new missions,
rebuild confidence, and embrace independence. Whether inspired by the same spirit of service that once guarded
it’s a home-based snack business, a tailoring unit, an borders and restored peace. Moreover, CRPF families are
online tutoring centre, or a digital art store, CRPF families naturally equipped with traits vital to entrepreneurial
across the country are stepping into the startup success. Years of managing frequent relocations, limited
ecosystem with dignity and determination. resources, and unpredictable situations make them
This transformation has been supported extensively by
the Central Welfare Association (CWA), which plays a
pivotal role in equipping CRPF families with the skills and
confidence they need to succeed. Through its welfare
branches across India, the CWA conducts skill
development programmes, entrepreneurship training,
financial literacy sessions, digital marketing workshops,
and more. In collaboration with initiatives like Skill India,
reputed NGOs, and private training institutions, these
efforts are turning homemakers into business owners
and dependents into self-sustaining individuals.
Many Veer Naris have used this platform to rise above
grief and find empowerment through enterprise. Others excellent problem-solvers, efficient planners, and resilient
from retired families are venturing into fields like decision-makers. They have a deep understanding of
handicrafts, content creation, small-scale manufacturing, how to do more with less, an essential quality in any
and education services. These ventures are often driven startup journey.
by the very values instilled by the armed forces: In conclusion, the journey from uniform to entrepreneur
discipline, perseverance, adaptability, and leadership.
reflects the true strength of CRPF families. Their
transformation into business leaders, educators, and
Entrepreneurship within CRPF families isn’t limited to creators showcases a new form of national service, one
women alone. Children of retired personnel are also that uplifts, empowers, and inspires. While the nature of
joining the movement by launching freelance businesses, the mission may have changed, the commitment to lead
tech startups, coaching centres, and community and serve remains just as strong.
initiatives. They bring modern skills and digital
awareness, combining it with the values they’ve grown up