Expo Mart of international standard is need of hour in Kashmir: Chairman CEPC

Srinagar; Apr 23: Dr Romesh Khajuria, Chairman of Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC) and Chairman of Wool & Woollens Export Promotion Council (WWEPC) under the Ministry of Textiles Govt of India, visited Srinagar from April 20 to 22.

A statement said that an interactive meeting was conducted at CEPC’s Srinagar Office which was chaired by Dr Romesh Khajuria with manufacturers, exporters, and artisans associated with the Carpet Industry of J&K.

Dr Khajuria's statement underscores the significant role that Srinagar, located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, plays in the global market for handicrafts and luxury goods. Known for its rich cultural heritage and skilled artisans, Srinagar has long been renowned for producing high-quality handicraft items that are highly in demand by consumers worldwide.

To capitalize on this reputation and further boost the handicraft industry in the region, Dr. Khajuria suggests the establishment of a permanent Expo Mart. This Expo Mart should be designed following the models of successful Expo Marts such as Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi. The Exhibition Mart in J&K will serve as a platform for showcasing and trading various products on a large scale, providing a space for local artisans, manufacturers, and exporters to display their goods to both domestic and international buyers. Additionally, manufacturers and exporters would have the opportunity to network with potential buyers and investors, facilitating business growth and expansion, according to the statement.

Dr Romesh Khajuria interacted with the artisans who crafted the largest hand-knotted silk carpet in the world 72X40 ft (1480 sq ft) in the village Wailoo Kunzer of Tangmarg in north Kashmir. Under the guidance of Fayaz Ahmad Shah and Abdul Gaffar Sheikh, the artisans celebrated the completion of the world's largest silk hand-knotted carpet. Crafted over eight years since 2016, this achievement fills Tangmarg, Kashmir, with pride. It's not only a testament to Srinagar (J&K) artisans' skills but also offers employment opportunities.

Dr Khajuria extends heartfelt congratulations to the dedicated artisans behind this masterpiece: Mohammad Ashraf Parray, Firdous Ahmad Dar, and Mohammad Maqbool Parray. Despite facing numerous challenges, including the impact of COVID, their perseverance shines through. He is confident that this remarkable creation will attract buyers worldwide, honouring and supporting these artisans' talent and hard work. He also visited M/S Carpets Creativity of Art in Idgah, Srinagar, who are crafting innovative Silk Pashmina Carpets.

Dr Khajuria, in his address to the gathering, assured that the responsibility given to him by the Office of DC Handicrafts, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, for the Council’s Election 2024, will be undertaken seriously. He is reaching out to the industry to request support in conducting fair and transparent elections for the CEPC.