JKHEU welcomes new Director Handicrafts Mussarat-ul-Islam

Srinagar, Dec 12: The Jammu and Kashmir Handicrafts Employees Union (JKHEU) Technical Wing, under the leadership of its President Mohammad Suhaib, has extended a warm welcome to the newly appointed Director of Handicrafts and Handloom, Mussarat ul Islam.

A seasoned officer with a proven track record, Mussarat ul Islam is widely recognised for his previous contributions to the department, including the significant step of increasing stipends for trainees. His humility, visionary approach, and dedication to the welfare of artisans and employees have earned him widespread appreciation.

The Union thanked the government for appointing such a capable and forward-thinking leader, expressing hope for a new era of development in the department.

During an interactive meeting, senior union members and department officials discussed key issues affecting the department. Some of the major concerns highlighted included: The union raised concerns over the lack of promotional avenues for craftsmen, particularly those serving in the School of Designs. They urged the revision of recruitment rules to enable career progression.

With training centres grappling with a severe shortage of crafts staff, the union proposed immediate measures, including conducting practical tests to fill Class IV vacancies and address the growing workload on existing employees.

The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Joint Director Handicrafts and Handloom Parvaiz Sajad Ganaie and Deputy Director Trainings Mirza Shahid Ali Beigh, who engaged in discussions about employee-related concerns. Senior union leaders, including General Secretary Organisation Sheikh Abdul Majeed, Abdul Rashid Shaheen, Javaid Ahmad Yatoo, Gulzar Ahmad Dangroo, Imtiyaz Ahmad Hakeem (President OCC), and district presidents, also participated in the event.

Speaking on the occasion, JKHEU President Mohammad Suhaib expressed his optimism, saying: "The appointment of Mussarat ul Islam Sahab as Director marks a turning point for our department. His vast experience, leadership, and commitment to artisans and employees give us hope that the long-standing challenges in the department will be resolved effectively. We are confident that under his guidance, the Handicrafts and Handloom Department will achieve new heights of excellence."

In response, Director Mussarat ul Islam assured attendees that all issues raised during the meeting would be addressed with priority. He reiterated his dedication to the welfare of artisans, employees, and the overall growth of the department.

The event concluded on a positive note, marking the beginning of a promising chapter for the Jammu and Kashmir Handicrafts and Handloom Department under the dynamic leadership of Mussarat ul Islam.