Kashmir Copper Association pledges revival of traditional copper handcrafts
Srinagar: The Kashmir Copper Association, led by President Farooq Ahmad Wani, Saturday announced a focused campaign to revive the region’s endangered copper handcraft industry and reaffirmed its commitment to protect the rights and livelihoods of copper workers.
The association warned that the voice of Kashmir’s copper artisans “must never be silenced” and outlined steps to restore traditional skills that have been pushed to the brink of extinction.
“We will not allow a centuries-old craft and the workers who sustain it to vanish,” said Farooq Ahmad Wani, President of the Kashmir Copper Association.
“Reviving handmade copper items is not just about preserving objects — it’s about saving livelihoods, culture, and a living heritage that belongs to the people of Kashmir. We call on local leaders, cultural institutions, and buyers worldwide to join us in this mission.”
The association says the decline in demand, lack of institutional support, and the migration of skilled artisans has left the copper craft sector in crisis.
To address these challenges, the Kashmir Copper Association plans a three-pronged approach: skills preservation through apprenticeships and workshops; market development via exhibitions, online sales channels, advocacy for financial support and favorable policies from government and cultural bodies. The association will also document techniques and designs to create an archival resource for future generations.
Immediate actions include launching a series of local training sessions for young artisans, organizing a regional copper craft fair in Srinagar next spring, and developing an online platform to connect makers directly with buyers. The association seeks collaboration with craft councils, tourism boards, and NGOs to provide seed grants, microloans, and business training that help artisans scale sustainable enterprises while maintaining traditional methods.
“The unique techniques of Kashmir copper work are a form of cultural expression that supports families across the valley,” said Wani. “By combining modern market access with hands-on training, we can create durable income streams for workers while safeguarding authentic craftsmanship.”
