Srinagar, Oct 10 :
Chief Minister today said that Jammu & Kashmir’s artisanal heritage is a source of global recognition and livelihoods for nearly 4.45 lakh people, and reiterated the Government’s commitment to preserving it.
From Kashmiri and Basohli Pashmina, Kani shawls and hand-knotted carpets to Sozni embroidery, Papier Mâché, Basohli paintings, Rajouri Chikri woodcraft, Khatamband and walnut wood carving, these crafts reflect generations of exceptional skill and creativity, the Chief Minister said.
He said the Government is committed to strengthening the economic security of artisans and weavers, many of whom belong to economically weaker sections.
Highlighting various initiatives, the Chief Minister said the Credit Card Scheme helps meet their working capital needs, enabling timely purchase of raw materials and essential inputs.
Key interventions include a fivefold increase in GI certification capacity, proposed Unity Malls in Srinagar and Jammu at a cost of ₹200 crore, dedicated tribal artisan clusters, QR-code quality testing and regular JKTPO Buyer-Seller Meets, he said.
The Chief Minister emphasised that these measures aim to build a stronger, self-reliant economic base for artisans. He assured sustained institutional support to expand national and global market access and secure a prosperous future for J&K’s handloom and handicrafts sector.(GNS)