Secretary Textiles pitches stronger safety net for Kashmiri artisans

Srinagar, Sep 9: Union Textiles Secretary Neelam Shami Rao on Monday said the Centre will explore setting up a strong testing and certification system to promote Jammu and Kashmir’s high-end handicrafts and handloom products.

Speaking at an interaction with chambers of commerce, exporters, artisans and weavers at the Arts Emporium here, Rao said such a system would help eliminate counterfeit products, safeguard the unique identity of Kashmiri crafts and enhance exports. She directed that a proposal on the subject be submitted to the Union Government.

The Secretary emphasised artisan welfare, directing officials to ensure maximum coverage of workers under pension schemes, PF/ESIC benefits and scholarships for their children. She also said efforts are under way to diversify markets for J&K products, targeting Europe, the UK and the Middle East.

Stakeholders welcomed the recent reduction of GST on textiles and handicrafts from 12% to 5% but pressed for national and international brand campaigns, infrastructure upgrades, wider welfare coverage, market diversification and curbs on machine-made items being sold as handmade.

Later, Rao visited the NIFT campus in Budgam, where she inspected labs, classrooms and the auditorium, and interacted with students and faculty. Praising their creativity, she told students: “You are the future of India’s textile industry. Your creativity and skills will define the next generation of design and fashion from Kashmir to the world.”

She also virtually inaugurated the Craft Handloom Village at Kanihama, calling it a significant step to promote crafts, tourism and sustainable livelihoods, and directed local administration to ensure wide publicity of the project.

At Manasbal, Rao inaugurated the CSB Seri-Tourism Project at the Basic Seed Farm and interacted with scientists and stakeholders.