CM Omar calls for supporting J&K artisans, entrepreneurs

New Delhi, Nov 23: Inaugurating the Jammu and Kashmir Day at India International Trade Fair (IITF) in New Delhi, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Saturday urged the participants to visit Jammu and Kashmir for a unique experience and to support J&K’s artisans and entrepreneurs.

Attending the J&K Day celebration event of the IITF at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, CM Omar who was invited as chief guest at the event highlighted the unparalleled cultural and economic richness of the region and urged the visitors to explore the pavilion and support J&K’s artisans and entrepreneurs.

“From world-renowned handicrafts and premium handlooms to the finest agricultural and horticultural products, J&K offers treasures that stand among the best in the world. I invite everyone to visit the J&K Pavilion and experience the authenticity of our indigenous products,” he said at the J&K Pavilion at IITF 2024 which witnessed a vibrant celebration of J&K Day.

The CM extended a warm invitation to people from across the country, urging them to experience the unparalleled beauty and hospitality of J&K.

Highlighting the region’s rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, he said, “I encourage you to visit J&K in the summer of 2025 to witness its breathtaking charm firsthand.”

CM Omar invited the participants to come to J&K during summer when it is simmering hot in the rest of the country to enjoy the pleasant weather and the cuisine and buy a whole range of products that are on display here.

He also invited the people to visit spiritual destinations like the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine in Jammu nestled amidst the Trikuta Hills.

“From snow-capped peaks and lush valleys to sacred sites and vibrant traditions, J&K promises a unique blend of tranquillity and adventure. We look forward to welcoming you with open arms,” the CM said.

He welcomed industry associations, prominent business leaders, exporters, entrepreneurs, women entrepreneurs, manufacturers, artisans, and exhibitors from J&K and the artists performing at the event.

CM Omar hailed the participation of visitors who joined from different parts of the country to celebrate J&K Day.

He acknowledged the role of the organisers in providing this platform to highlight the immense opportunities in J&K and to reflect the culture, handloom, handicrafts, and heritage of J&K.

The CM visited the J&K Pavilion and commended the exhibitors for showcasing their products.

The J&K Pavilion showcased iconic products such as Pashmina, saffron, and GI-tagged handicrafts.

Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani commended the efforts of the Industries and Commerce Department and the Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO) in supporting the region’s artisans and exhibitors. He expressed optimism about expanding J&K’s participation in such events in the coming years, ensuring even greater opportunities for showcasing the region’s rich craftsmanship.

Wani also extended an open invitation to the people, encouraging them to visit Kashmir and explore the authentic and diverse products that reflect the unique cultural heritage of the region.

“Next year, we aim to make this platform even larger, allowing more artisans to present their unparalleled creations to the world,” he said.

Earlier, Commissioner Secretary of Industries and Commerce, Vikramjit Singh, welcomed the chief guest Omar Abdullah and informed about the remarkable increase in participation from J&K at IITF, which had grown from 30 exhibitors earlier to 115 exhibitors in 2024.

He announced plans to expand the reach of J&K’s artisans and entrepreneurs by participating in international exhibitions and events shortly.

Managing Director of JKTPO, Khalid Jehangir thanked all the guests, participants, officials, and people whose participation contributed to the success of the event.

He reaffirmed JKTPO’s unwavering commitment to empowering local artisans and entrepreneurs by providing them with platforms to showcase their talent and expanding opportunities through such events.

A grand cultural programme showcased the essence of J&K through mesmerising performances of Dogri and Kashmiri folk dances and songs by local artists, captivating the audience and leaving them spellbound.

The J&K Pavilion featured over 115 exhibitors, including women entrepreneurs, specially-abled entrepreneurs, and cooperative societies, offering an array of products, from Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged treasures like Pashmina shawls, Kani shawls, Sozni embroidery, and Basholi paintings to high-quality agricultural produce like saffron, honey, walnuts, and lavender oil.

The pavilion’s interactive features like video walls showcased success stories, craft techniques, and J&K’s stunning tourist destinations.

This year marks the 43rd edition of IITF being organised by ITPO from November 14 to 27, 2024, with November 23rd celebrated as J&K Day at the trade fair event.

This flagship event offers a platform for businesses and individuals to explore business opportunities and foster collaboration, serving as a convergence point for domestic and international trade. The J&K Day celebration event was also attended by Additional Chief Secretary to CM Dheeraj Gupta, Principal Resident Commissioner Rashmi Singh, and other senior government officials and participants from J&K trade and industry.