Handicrafts struggling
Handicraft sector is still struggling in Kashmir Valley while as Governor’s administration in the recent past has taken number of steps for making the sector vibrant. Although there is no visible impact of the efforts taken by the Governor’s administration, given the low tourism, there is very little to cheer about in Kashmir especially in the handicraft sector. Recently, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir said that government is working to tie up with TATA Consultancy Services (TCS), Flipkart, Amazon and other such type of services so that famous Kashmir Handicrafts could reach to every corner of the world.
There is a big chunk of population in downtown and requires equal attention in their upliftment. He said that the administrative measures have been taken to improve the lot of people associated with handicraft. Government are working to protect carpet weaving, Papier-mâché, Walnut Wood Carving, Crewel Chain Stitch Embroidery, Khatamband, Namda, copperware and other centuries old world famous arts from counterfeiting.
He directed Handicraft and Handloom departments to prepare a complete report specifically Handicraft related, type of products, total artisans especially youth and women folk and submit it to the Divisional Commissioner’s office. He said the purpose of the report is to take necessary action so that financial, marketing and other support will be provided to all types of handicrafts of the Kashmir so that valley based craft will reach across the globe. This will give new dimension to the production of Kashmir handicrafts and would help in its marketability across the world.
