Inclusivity of indigenous women of Kashmir in disaster management

This study examines the growing awareness of disasters and changing perceptions of disaster risk in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the aftermath of the 2014 floods and the Covid-19 pandemic. It focuses on the indigenous Dal Dwellers community in Srinagar, a population highly exposed to environmental risks due to its close dependence on natural resources and its vulnerability to hazards such as floods, fires, droughts, earthquakes, and pandemics. Within this context, the study also explores the intersection between disaster management and gender, highlighting the role of women in a region where gender inequality and barriers to women’s empowerment still persist despite broader global commitments to equality.

The findings suggest that women in the Dal Dwellers community play a crucial and often under-recognised role in disaster response and relief. Despite belonging to one of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged social groups, women were found to be actively involved in supporting affected populations by providing food, shelter, and other forms of assistance during times of crisis. At the same time, the study highlights the contradiction that, although these women are heavily dependent on natural resources and bear significant responsibilities for securing food, water, and fuel, they continue to have limited access to such resources. Overall, the research positions Kashmiri women not merely as victims of disaster but as important agents in disaster management, emphasising the need to recognise Dal Lake communities and women’s inclusivity as central to effective disaster preparedness and response.