Handicrafts dept issues advisory to help buyers identify genuine Kashmir handicrafts

Srinagar, July 30: In a bid to protect the centuries-old legacy of Kashmir’s handicraft industry, the Department of Handicrafts & Handloom, Kashmir, has issued a public advisory urging buyers—especially tourists—to be vigilant against counterfeit, machine-made products being sold under the guise of authentic Kashmiri craftsmanship.

The department said that its primary goal is to sensitize buyers to ensure they are purchasing genuine Kashmir handicraft products, and not cheap, machine-made imitations imported from outside the Union Territory.

“When in doubt, cut out,” said Mussarat Zia, Director Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir, in a post on X while encouraging customers to report any suspicion they may have about the authenticity of the products they have purchased.

Our primary goal is to SENSITIZE the buyers, including tourists, to make it doubly sure that they are BUYING a GENUINE #Kashmir Handicraft product, rather than a cheap machine-made imitation, imported from outside.
'When in doubt, cut out' @diprjk @dohhkmr @GreaterKashmir https://t.co/g7ef4YbTRu

— Mussarat Zia (@mussarat_zia) August 1, 2025

The department has provided a helpline—0194-2472065—and an email contact at dir.handicraft@jk.gov.in for buyers who suspect they may have been misled into purchasing non-authentic items.

“We promise action,” the department assured, reaffirming its commitment to preserving the integrity of Kashmiri handcrafts and taking strict measures against deceptive trade practices.