Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 21: A delegation from the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), headed by president Javid Ahmad Tenga, convened important discussions with Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary of Textiles, Government of India. The focus was on the challenges confronting the Handicraft Sector in Kashmir and formulating comprehensive strategies for its revitalization.
This meeting, which also saw the attendance of Amrit Raj, Development Commissioner Handicrafts (DCH), represented a vital step towards tackling the sector’s declining export figures and fostering sustainable growth.
Along with the KCCI president, the delegation included Fayaz Ahmad Punjabi, junior vice president, and Muzzafar Majid Jan, Member of the Executive Committee. They provided an in-depth analysis of the current crisis impacting the handicraft industry, which has experienced a notable drop in exports, directly affecting thousands of artisan families throughout the Kashmir valley. The delegation highlighted the potential risks this downturn poses not only to the economic viability of artisan communities but also to the lasting legacy of centuries-old artistic traditions intrinsic to Kashmir’s culture.
In response to the KCCI’s concerns, Secretary Rao adopted a positive and constructive stance. One of the meeting’s key outcomes was the Secretary’s commitment to support an international exhibition in Srinagar, set for September-October 2025. This event, organized in collaboration with KCCI and various craft councils, aims to present local manufacturers and handicraft exporters with an opportunity to display their craftsmanship to international buyers and forge direct market connections.
The delegation proposed an extensive plan to establish an international-standard Centre/Mart in Kashmir. This permanent facility would act as a year-round venue for craft exhibitions, buyer-seller interactions, and cultural exchanges, which could potentially position Kashmir as a significant hub for handicraft trade.
Throughout the discussions, there was a strong emphasis on the necessity of educating artisans about contemporary market demands while maintaining traditional techniques. The meeting underscored the importance of engaging younger generations in these legacy crafts through skill development initiatives, design innovations, and the integration of technology. Furthermore, the need for improved infrastructure and staffing for Geographical Indication (GI) tagging was addressed, with both parties acknowledging the urgent requirement to fortify this aspect to safeguard Kashmir’s unique craft identity.
KCCI outlined an ambitious goal of elevating Kashmir’s handicraft exports to Rs 3,000 crore within the next three years, which would be achieved through increased participation in both national and international trade fairs.
Secretary Rao assured the delegation of the Textile Ministry’s support to tackle these challenges and to implement the proposed initiatives.
