‘Enable holistic socio-economic growth of local artisans, exporters’

Srinagar, Jan 18: A meeting of District Level Export Promotion Committee (DLEPC) was held under the Chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat here.

The meeting was held to finalise the Draft Export Action Plan aimed to enhance the Export of Goods from Srinagar District to boost the local Economy and institutionalize the Export Ecosystem through establishment of Srinagar Export Hub.

At the outset, the DC held an extensive discussion with all the stakeholders present in the meeting on the proposed Draft District Export Action Plan.

The DC, who is also the Chairman of DLEPC held a detailed deliberation on the comprehensive Export Plan placed before the Committee under which 3 products have been identified/finalized having good export potential viz Silk Carpet, Pashmina and Papier Mache in Srinagar District.

On the occasion, the DC asked the concerned to include wood carving in the Export Plan. He said it is an ornamental and delicate craft process that is unique to Kashmir and is among the most important crafts of Kashmir.

The DC asked the Officers to prepare a plan for Walnut wood carving in consultation with the stakeholders at the earliest so that the same is incorporated in the District Export Plan.

The DC said the objectives of the initiative is to give a fillip to the Export volume and to boost the local economy, particularly focusing on promoting specific products or industries within the District that have good export potential. He said this will enable increase in production, improve quality, and facilitate marketing and export of these products with adequate market linkage.

“The idea is also to enable holistic socio-economic growth of the local Artisans and Exporters of the District”, he added.

Earlier, a PowerPoint presentation was given to the DC and was apprised that Rs 10.65 crore plan has been earmarked under Silk Carpet having different components including Strengthening of Indian Institute of Carpet Technology(IICT), Srinagar, setting up of Raw Material Banks, Replacement of Old worn-out Carpet Looms, Skill Up-gradation and Capacity Building Training, Publicity and Promotion of Gl Tagging of Carpets, Marketing and Promotion, Market Research/Study, Setting up a Common Facility for Carpet Washing and Drying on Modern Lines.