The Kashmir Copper Association today held a crucial meeting at Tanki Mohalla Nowhata to address the critical threat posed by machine-made copper items to the livelihoods of thousands of traditional copperware artisans and the future of the industry.

The meeting was conducted by the President of the Kashmir Copper Association, Farooq Ahmad Wani.
The central focus of the deliberations was a unanimous demand for a complete and immediate ban on all machine-made copper items entering the market. Association members stated that the influx of these products is "affecting our workers and demolishing our future" by undercutting the prices and value of hand-crafted copperware, a traditional art form integral to Kashmiri culture.
The association successfully garnered widespread support from *Shah-re-Khaas Traders and Chambers* Chairman Bashir Ahmad Kanu, along with General Secretary Waseem Khan, Organiser Irfan Bashir, Vice President (Pandach) Firdous Ahmad Beigh, and core member Farhan Kitab, assured full support for the cause. Chairman Bashir Ahmad Kanu emphasized the need to preserve the region's unique heritage.
Senior BJP Leader Er Kamran assured the association of full support on the administration level to implement necessary measures.
The SHO of Police Station Nowhata, who attended the meeting, conveyed the police administration's support for the initiative aimed at safeguarding the traditional craft.
Farooq Ahmad Wani, President of the Kashmir Copper Association, stated: "This is not just about business; it is about preserving an ancient craft that defines Kashmir. We urge the administration to act swiftly on this ban to secure the future of our hardworking artisans."
The Kashmir Copper Association remains hopeful that with the assurances provided by the trade body, political representatives, and the police, the complete ban on machine-made copper items will be implemented soon, ensuring the survival and prosperity of the traditional copper industry.