Says whole-of-govt approach needed to promote Basohli Paintings Basohli’s Handicrafts, Pashmina to get QR coding for market boost   Jammu, Sept 28: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday highlighted India’s rising global recognition not only for its growing economic power but also for its rich culture, arts, and traditions. He made these remarks while inaugurating the Basohli Utsav, held at Basohli in Kathua district. “Our philosophical, spiritual, and artistic legacy is gaining worldwide admiration, strengthening India’s soft power,” the Lieutenant Governor said. Organised by the Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) in collaboration with the Divisional Administration Jammu and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), the Basohli Utsav aims to showcase and celebrate the region’s unique cultural identity, particularly its world-renowned Basohli paintings. Emphasizing the need to preserve and promote cultural heritage, LG Sinha said that as India advances towards the goal of building a “Viksit Bharat,” concerted efforts are essential to protect both tangible and intangible aspects of the nation’s traditions and ensure their transmission to younger generations. The Lieutenant Governor also underscored the importance of promoting “Brand Basohli” nationally and internationally. “A whole-of-government approach is needed to promote Basohli painting across the country and abroad to ensure the prosperity of our artists,” he added. Describing the festival as the “Mahakumbh of Art, Culture, and Tradition,” Sinha said Basohli is more than a geographic location or a historical reference—it is a symbol of India’s enduring artistic and literary spirit. “Basohli is the energy field of seekers of art and tradition, who have dedicated their lives to mastering various art forms,” he said. “Its traditions are deeply rooted in cultural sensitivity and creativity.” The LG called upon all sections of society to contribute to a cultural renaissance as part of the nation’s journey toward development. He further announced that the BasohliUtsav would be made an annual event and included in the official calendar of the Department of Culture. During the inaugural ceremony, the Lieutenant Governor also released five publications centered on the Ramayana, offering diverse perspectives including those of women and tribal communities. The titles released were: Lok Mein Ram, Ramayan Ki StreeGatha, Ram KaGhar, Ram Ki Sanjeevani, and Tribes of Ramayana. These works add academic and spiritual depth to the festival, enriching its cultural offerings. The event was attended by senior officials and public representatives, including Col (Retd) Mahan Singh, DDC Chairman Kathua; Thakur Darshan Singh, MLA Basohli; Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu; Shakti Kumar Pathak, Director, ACB J&K; Rajesh Sharma, Deputy Commissioner Kathua; Shruti Awasthi, Regional Director IGNCA; and Harvinder Kour, Secretary, JKAACL. In a related event at Basohli, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha addressed an ‘Investors Meet’ organised by the Department of Industries and Commerce in collaboration with ICICI Bank. Highlighting the significant transformation of Jammu and Kashmir into a preferred investment destination in northern India, the LG attributed this positive shift to massive infrastructure development and investor-friendly policies. “Industries play a crucial role in driving economic growth, generating employment, and boosting income levels,” he said. He added that efforts are underway to extend incentives under the Central Sector Scheme for the Development of Industries to further accelerate industrial growth in the Union Territory. “Our focus remains on inclusive and sustainable industrial development, ensuring that economic benefits reach all sections of society equitably,” he emphasised, adding that the poorest communities and rural areas must be the foremost beneficiaries of this growth. LG Sinha also highlighted Basohli’s potential for growth in hospitality and industrial sectors. He called for a dedicated campaign to develop a skilled workforce and strengthen market linkages for local handicrafts and handloom products. He urged the Industry Department to initiate QR coding for Basohli’s renowned pashmina, handicrafts, and paintings to boost their visibility and authenticity. Further, the Lieutenant Governor informed that the Union Ministry of Textiles is considering establishing a sub-centre in Basohli, which would enhance the region’s textile-related development. The Investors Meet was attended by business leaders, investors, and representatives of industry chambers and associations from across the country.