While most youth flee to cities in search of better opportunities, Rahul Sharma, a 25-year-old sculpture artist from Kuprala village in Udhampur, has transformed art into not just a medium of beauty but also a medium of employment and self-reliance. His story has become an inspiration for local youth to pursue startups and employment.
The Sculpture Process: From Clay to Sculpture
In modern sculpture, artists often use various materials.
The model of the sculpture is first created in clay, as clay is ideal for shaping and embellishing details. The same model is then fashioned into a sculpture using durable materials like cement and fiber to ensure stability and longevity.
Rahul works in a similar way—first creating a design in clay, then molding it into a strong cement/fiber material to create a sculpture that reflects both modernity and creativity.
Employment Opportunities for Rural Youth
In many rural areas, lack of funds, resources, and a lack of platforms prevent local youth from pursuing their art and skills. In such an environment, starting a startup or business becomes a daunting task.
However, Rahul’s art studio has become a training and opportunity center for these young people, where they are learning how to transform their art into self-reliant employment and a structured venture.
This model not only provides them with economic opportunities but also provides confidence and a new perspective—enabling them to recognize their talents and develop them into small businesses or startups.
Honor and Recognition from the Center: Dr. Jitendra Singh’s Support
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who has been elected MP from the Udhampur Lok Sabha constituency three times and currently holds several important ministries, including Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, has also shared Rahul’s story on his social media platforms and congratulated him.
Dr. Singh, a senior doctor, author, and social activist, frequently encourages young people in Jammu and Kashmir to take advantage of government programs and pursue startups, self-employment, and innovation.
He encourages young people to take advantage of government programs, such as Startup India, the Mudra Scheme, and training opportunities, helping them overcome simple financial constraints and resource constraints.
Employment in the Arts
Rahul says that with skill, hard work, and proper guidance, arts and crafts can provide as strong a financial path as any technical or industrial business plan. Today, his studio teaches local young artists how to create models, learn design, and teach marketing and the basics of business.
An Example of Inspiration and Self-Reliance
Rahul’s sculpture art venture has become an inspiration not only for him but also for other young people who want to recognize their talents and transform them into economic ones. This initiative is strengthening the spirit of a self-reliant India at the local level and proving that a great future can be built from the villages.
