Div Com Kashmir takes review of Handicrafts & Handloom Department

Srinagar, Dec 06: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg today took a comprehensive review of the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom (H&H) in a meeting here.

The meeting was attended by Commissioner SMC, Director Handicrafts & Handloom, Director Tourism Kashmir, DD Planning, officers of Floriculture and H&H.

At the outset, Director H&H gave overview of the envisioned projects and strategies, to promote H&H sector, including Operationalization of Kashmir Haat on the Pattern of Dilli Haat,  Fencing of DHHK Land Near Secretariat and PCR, Craft Gallery under Srinagar Smart City Project at Batmaloo, PM Unity (Ekta) Mall Proposal at Kashmir Haat, KnowYour Artisan Series under Soulful Kashmir Brand, Craft Tourism Villages Scheme and Dovetailing Handicrafts with Tulip and Chrysanthemum Festivals.

The meeting held threadbare discussion regarding the agenda points to promote local craft & artisans through meticulous blending of inter-departmental calendar of activities.

To address the car parking issue near Kashmir Haat, the Div Com instructed Director H&H to adopt a judicious mechanism for optimum utilization of available parking space  to facilitate visitors to Exhibition Ground.

He also asked Commissioner SMC to earmark some shops for Hi-end craft entrepreneurs at Souq Market Batmaloo for the promotion and showcase of GI-tagged products.

The meeting also discussed the envisioned project of developing and Operationalization of Kashmir Haat on the Pattern of Dilli Haat with the objective to convert it  into a vibrant cultural and commercial hub.

Director H&H shared success of 'Know Your Artisan Series' under Soulful Kashmir Brand and proposed  institutionalizing future events by integrating artisan stalls, live demonstrations, cultural showcases, and market linkages.

He also apprised land transfer issue for the development of Craft Tourism Village of Sonpah near Doodhpathri.

Speaking on the occasion, the Div Com emphasized on drafting holistic plan for 'Know Your Artisan' events to be held in Schools, colleges and other institutions.

He also stressed on integration of calendar of activities with Tourism Department to organize activities at Tourist Sites, Heritage Places, Yatra Stations and other vibrant locations around Dal lake besides during the winter games.

He called for training of tour guides to engage and encourage tourists to visit craft clusters in Srinagar and also advised for taking hoteliers and tour operators on board for collaboration in enhancing visits.

Regarding sale of fake Handloom products, the Div Com directed for strict action against erring hoteliers selling counterfeit goods to tourists.