: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary reviewed the performance and functioning of Handloom and Handicrafts (H&H) departments post merger in a high-level meeting here today.

Advisor to Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani; MLAs Ali Mohammad Dar, Dr. Mohammad Shafi Wani, Tanveer Sadiq, Riyaz Bedar; Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Vikramjit Singh, besides other senior officers of the Handicrafts and Handloom department attended the meeting.

During the meeting, Deputy Chief Minister was briefed about the flagship schemes and policies benefiting the handicrafts and handloom sector in Jammu & Kashmir, pursuant upon notification of New Wool, Handicrafts and Handloom Policy 2020.

The Deputy CM directed the Administrative Department to present consolidated data on pre-merger and post-merger years in the next follow up meeting, with reference to departmental schemes in both the sectors, so that a perspective roadmap can be framed for both the sectors.

He also advised the department to present a blueprint for promotion of the craft sector in Jammu and Kashmir. He reiterated that government is committed for the welfare of artisans and weavers.

Deputy CM laid emphasis upon ensuring that the Handicrafts and Handloom departments serve the larger interests of artisans and weavers. He said that the department of Handicrafts and Handloom shall undertake fresh stakeholder consultations with an aim to equally promote both the handicrafts and handloom sectors.

Earlier, Deputy Chief Minister heard representatives from both the handicrafts and handloom sector, to obtain first-hand feedback from the concerned stakeholders. He assured the delegations that their concerns shall be examined for redressal.

During the meeting, MLAs also gave their valuable suggestions and feedback for the promotion of art and craft ensuring ease in livelihood earning by the artisans.