Encouraging the artisans
Just few days back the administration honoured 38 outstanding craftsmen and artisans with the UT-Level Artisan and Weaver Awards–2024 for their exemplary contribution to preserving and innovating Jammu and Kashmir’s celebrated handicraft traditions.
The awards conferred by Handicrafts and Handloom Department were presented at a grand ceremony headed by Deputy Chief Minister.
The decision to honour the craftsmen speaks about the government’s commitment to transforming the Handicrafts and Handloom sector into a vibrant economic pillar.
These awards not only celebrate craftsmanship but also motivate artisans to push creative boundaries and continue their invaluable service to society.
The Artisan Awards reinforce the profound cultural and economic significance of J&K’s craft traditions, which sustain livelihoods and shape the regions identity on the global stage.
Notably, the Jammu and Kashmir government’s ambitious plan to revive the ages old handicrafts Industry is paying rich dividends. Not only has the industry which had touched an all-time low, witnessed a revival but the people associated with the trade have felt a glimmer of hope as well.
Kashmir’s handicraft industry has seen significant growth in recent years. According to available data, the turnover of handicrafts in Kashmir during the past two years is substantial as Kashmir exported handicraft and handloom products worth ₹2,567 crore in the last two fiscal years and the first three quarters of the current fiscal year (2024-25).
The export figures touched ₹3,000 crore by the end of this fiscal year (March 2025) as the total export value of Kashmiri crafts in four years has reached ₹3,477.31 crore, including exports from key categories like carpets, woolen shawls, paper mache, and other items.
The figures that have come to the fore suggest the immense potential the trade offers for the development of the region and generation of employment here.
Since many initiatives have been announced covering many trades under the Kashmir handicrafts sector, one trade that had so far witnessed a left out is also witnessing some positive developments.
The authorities here have announced a huge step toward revival and promotion of the traditional craft of Kashmiri Namdha, as the Government approved funds for refurbishing and installation of a high-capacity Carding Machine at its UNDP wing.
This initiative falls under the larger objective of strengthening the infrastructure and sustainability of traditional handicrafts and handloom sectors in the Valley.
Notably, the handicrafts sector supports over 3.80 lakh artisans and weavers, contributing more than ₹1500 crore annually to J&K’s economy. The artisans from the UT have earned prestigious national honours such as the Padma Shri and Shilp Guru Awards, and have captivated global audiences from Paris to New York.
Recent interventions, including skill enhancement workshops, Know Your Artisan initiative, digital marketplaces, and GI tagging, have significantly strengthened market outreach, contributing to a ₹500 crore boost in exports through participation in multiple global trade fairs this year.
