The Craft Economy

The 60^th Anniversary Celebration of the World Craft Council at Srinagar is an opportune moment to reflect on the future of the craft related industry.  We know sometime back Srinagar was recognised as a World Crafts City by the World Craft Council (WCC). At the time of this announcement by the WCC we had our media abuzz with the news. Politicians and the people in the government also responded in a joyous way. The anniversary celebration of the WCC being organised in Srinagar is a reminder for all of us that crafts can become the economic future for the people living in this geography.

The introduction of the Council's new flagship program, Seal of Authenticity of the Craft, aiming for certification for handicrafts of J&K that is globally recognised is another step in the development of craft related industry. All this generates hope that the people related to crafts in Srinagar and other parts of J&K can take a leap ahead if they understand the importance of such developments. But unfortunately,  notwithstanding this high optics around craft, we lag behind in promoting our crafts at a global level to a scale it potentially can be taken to.

The deep and wide penetration of craft related activities in Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir valley entails a comprehensive intervention in this sector. In fact, if the families engaged with different crafts are trained to upgrade their skill, and collaborate with businesses outside, it can change the economic profile of this place in a significant way.

This sector has an immense potential of generating  gainful employment and absorbing our young educated lot. All that is needed is to up-skill the artisans, upgrade the people who trade in this about the business potential, and involve the educated people in a modern format of business.

If we focus on this sector with a long term plan to connect it with the world through technology it can elevate the status of Srinagar to a level where it is known as a major centre of craft-economy around the globe. It needs orientation of young minds, training, and  business collaborations.