Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 20: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary emphasized the importance of promoting the indigenous handicrafts of Jammu and Kashmir on both national and international platforms. He stated, “Jammu and Kashmir is rich in a diverse array of handicrafts that have established their presence in global markets. It is crucial to enhance their visibility through sustained marketing efforts, which will help expand market opportunities, boost the economy, and create employment opportunities.”
The remarks were made during his address at the inauguration of the Jammu and Kashmir Industries (JKI) Sale Mela, which featured a wide array of wool and silk products.
The event, organized by Jammu and Kashmir Industries, saw the participation of key officials such as Secretary of the Industries and Commerce Department, Smitha Sethi; Director of Industries and Commerce Jammu, Arun Kumar Manhas; and Managing Directors of Jammu and Kashmir Industries and Jammu and Kashmir Minerals, Vikram Gupta and Pawan Kumar Sharma, respectively, along with other senior officials.
Acknowledging the efforts made by JKI in organizing the event, Choudhary expressed the government’s commitment to supporting local industries, noting that mechanisms are already in place to encourage industrial growth. “This Sale Mela showcases the exceptional talent of JKI workers and highlights our rich heritage, especially pertaining to Mulberry Silk. We are dedicated to promoting local crafts to ensure sustainable livelihoods for our sheep wool rearers, sericulturists, and artisans while expanding their market outreach,” he stated.
The Deputy Chief Minister also urged JKI to look into conducting similar events in other prominent locations both within and outside Jammu and Kashmir to further promote our rich heritage products.
The Sale Mela has received an enthusiastic response from Civil Secretariat employees and is set to run for the next ten days, offering exclusive discounts and special promotions to encourage public engagement.
