Highlights Key Interventions for Growth of Handicrafts & Textiles Sector
JK News Today
Srinagar, September 9: Mr. Manik Batra, Chairman of ASSOCHAM J&K Council, today met Ms. Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, during her interaction with trade and industry representatives of the textile sector in Srinagar. The meeting was also attended by the Commissioner/Secretary, Industries & Commerce Department, Government of J&K.
During the meeting, Mr. Batra strongly advocated for new initiatives to give a boost to Jammu & Kashmir’s handicrafts and textile sector. He said that the recently negotiated UK–India Free Trade Agreement has opened new opportunities and suggested that buyer–seller meets in collaboration with the UK Embassy should be organized to directly connect J&K artisans with international buyers, particularly in pashmina, carpets, and papier-mâché.
Mr. Batra also recommended upgrading the Craft Development Institute (CDI) in Srinagar into a Centre of Excellence for design, training, and branding to support product innovation, certification, and international positioning of Kashmiri handicrafts. He highlighted that artisans and exporters continue to face challenges in accessing affordable finance and called for low-interest loans, export credit support, and credit guarantees to enable small weavers and craftsmen to meet export orders smoothly.
He further suggested that a dedicated Trade Facilitation Centre be set up in J&K to streamline documentation, logistics, quality certification, and buyer linkages, thereby reducing delays and costs for exporters. Stressing the importance of better connectivity, he added that the Jammu Dry Port should be fully integrated with the export ecosystem to provide customs clearance, warehousing, and faster shipment routes, which will significantly bring down logistics expenses for exporters from the Valley.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Batra said, “Jammu & Kashmir’s handicrafts and textiles are world-famous for their quality and uniqueness. With proper support in finance, infrastructure, and international marketing, our artisans can achieve remarkable growth. ASSOCHAM J&K Council will continue to work with the government to strengthen this vital sector and ensure it reaches global markets more effectively.”
