Positive Push
In a positive push for Kashmir’s carpet industry, the Union Ministry of Textiles has sanctioned ₹51 lakh for the procurement and distribution of 100 additional Modified Modern Steel Carpet Looms under the ‘Wool Processing Scheme’ of the Central Wool Development Board.
This initiative follows the recent distribution of an earlier batch of 100 looms, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving working conditions and productivity among carpet weavers in Kashmir.
Designed by the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT), Srinagar, each loom, costing ₹51,000, features ergonomic improvements such as a back-rest and comfortable seating to address the health challenges faced by artisans who work long hours on intricate hand-knotted carpets in Kashmir.
The Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, has invited interested weavers to complete formalities through local Assistant Directors’ offices so that this modern intervention reaches to interested carpet weavers.
The initiative is expected to boost efficiency, enhance product quality, and preserve the centuries-old art of Kashmiri carpet weaving.
By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, the scheme underscores a larger vision, empowering artisans, improving livelihoods, and sustaining one of India’s most treasured handicraft legacies.
