Srinagar, Feb 21: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) team led by President Javid Ahmad Tenga, held crucial discussions with Mrs. Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary Textiles, Government of India, focusing on the challenges facing Kashmir's handicraft sector and comprehensive strategies for its revival. The meeting, which was also attended by Amrit Raj, Development Commissioner Handicrafts (DCH), marked a significant step toward addressing the sector's declining exports and ensuring its sustainable growth.

Apart from KCCI president, the chamber delegation included Fayaz Ahmad Punjabi, Junior Vice President, Muzzafar Majid Jan, Member Executive Committee. They presented a detailed analysis of the current crisis affecting the handicraft sector, which has witnessed a substantial decline in exports, directly impacting thousands of artisan families across the Kashmir Valley. The delegation emphasised how this downturn threatens not only the economic sustainability of artisan communities but also risks the disappearance of centuries-old artistic traditions that have been Kashmir's cultural hallmark.

In response to the KCCI's concerns, Secretary Rao demonstrated a positive and constructive approach. A key outcome of the meeting was the Secretary's assurance to support an international exhibition in Srinagar, scheduled for September-October 2025. This exhibition, to be organized collaboratively by KCCI and various craft councils, aims to provide a platform for local manufacturers and exporters of handicrafts to showcase their work to international buyers and establish direct market connections.

The delegation put forward a comprehensive proposal for establishing an international-standard Centre/ Mart  in Kashmir. This permanent facility would serve as a year-round venue for craft exhibitions, buyer-seller meets, and cultural exchanges, potentially transforming Kashmir into a major hub for handicraft trade.

During the discussions, significant attention was given to the critical need for creating awareness among artisans about modern market demands while preserving traditional techniques. The meeting highlighted the importance of attracting younger generations to these legacy crafts through skill development programs, design interventions, and technology integration. The inadequate infrastructure and staffing for Geographical Indication (GI) tagging was also discussed, with both sides acknowledging the urgent need to strengthen this aspect to protect Kashmir's unique craft identity.

The KCCI presented its ambitious vision of increasing Kashmir's handicraft exports to ₹3,000 crore within the next three years. This target would be achieved through enhanced participation in national and international trade fairs, modernization of production techniques while preserving traditional craftsmanship, development of direct market linkages with international buyers, implementation of quality control measures, and creation of a robust e-commerce presence for Kashmir handicrafts.

The KCCI delegation emphasized the role of women artisans in the sector, highlighting how the current decline particularly affects female artisans who have traditionally been the backbone of Kashmir's handicraft industry. The discussions included strategies for empowering women artisans through better access to markets, financial inclusion, and skill enhancement programs.

Secretary Rao assured the delegation of the Textile ministry's support in addressing these challenges and implementing the proposed initiatives.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to work collaboratively towards revitalizing Kashmir's handicraft sector, ensuring its growth, and preserving its rich cultural heritage for future generations.