PHDCCI seeks revival plan for textile, handicraft sectors

Srinagar, Sep 9: The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), Kashmir, has urged the Union Ministry of Textiles to initiate comprehensive measures for reviving Jammu and Kashmir’s traditional textile, handicraft, handloom, and silk sectors.

In a meeting with Union Textiles Secretary Neelam Shami Rao in Srinagar, PHDCCI Kashmir Chairman A P Vicky Shaw presented a set of proposals aimed at strengthening artisan welfare, modernizing infrastructure, and expanding market outreach.

Shaw highlighted the need for marketing assistance through reputed national organizations operating in J&K, which he said would amplify the reach of local products. He also called for the launch of the SMARTH scheme for skill development and the reintroduction of the Power Tex scheme to boost the power loom sector.

The chamber raised concerns over the under-utilization of space at the Common Facility Centre in Zakura’s Integrated Handicraft Silk Park, suggesting it be optimized for artisan and enterprise use. Welfare of artisans, described as the “backbone of the handicraft sector,” also featured prominently in the discussions.

PHDCCI further proposed a national-level expo, fashion show, and buyer-seller meet in New Delhi under a market support initiative, providing a premier platform for J&K and Ladakh artisans to showcase their work to domestic and global buyers.

The Union Secretary assured full support for marketing and infrastructure development, affirming the Ministry’s commitment to sustainable growth of J&K’s textile and handicraft sectors.