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Artisans custodians of J&K’s cultural identity: CM Omar

  • RK News By RK News
  • Comments 0
  • 16 Apr 2026

Says their ‘magical hands’ need larger platform Calls for making ‘Know Your Artisan’ initiative regular feature

Srinagar, Apr 15: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday described artisans as custodians of Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural identity. He called for providing them with direct market access, ensuring fair value for their work, and strengthening the authenticity of traditional products.

In a major boost to promote the Kashmir craft sector, CM Abdullah inaugurated the 'Know Your Artisan' programme at Kashmir Haat here, under the Handicrafts and Handloom Department's ongoing 'Soulful Kashmir' brand promotion campaign. He also inaugurated the new GI Testing Lab, Giant LED Video Walls, and launched high-precision fibre analysis equipment along with DesignNWeave software, designed by IICT Srinagar.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said the initiative marks a significant step in promoting Brand J&K and enhancing the visibility of the handicrafts sector. Holding such events with greater frequency and duration so that the "golden hands" and rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir are provided an ideal platform to reach a larger target audience, he said.

Omar directed the Handicrafts and Handloom Department to institutionalise the 'Know Your Artisan' initiative as a regular feature and to extend the present edition to maximise outreach and impact.

Immediately after his arrival, the CM inaugurated the Giant LED Video Wall installed at Kashmir Haat and the 'Know Your Artisan' programme. He inspected the department's new initiative of Live Demos under the 'Try Your Hands' segment, set up to provide an immersive experience to visitors and tourists. Abdullah himself tried his hand at warping yarn, an arduous exercise involved in the handweaving of pashmina, and was specifically impressed by the prototypes on display designed by the School of Designs and CDI.

The Chief Minister later visited the main exhibition gallery, where 30 display-cum-sale counters offering authentic handmade products have been set up. During his interaction with Shilp Guru, National and J&K Awardees, he expressed deep appreciation for the initiative and the remarkable craftsmanship on display.

The CM urged people to visit Kashmir Haat to experience the world-class art and craft created by the "magical hands" of Kashmiri artisans, emphasising that such visits not only allow people to witness the rich cultural heritage firsthand but also directly support local artisans by encouraging the purchase of authentic handmade products.

Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, who also holds the Industries & Commerce portfolio, reaffirmed the department's commitment to continue organising such initiatives across multiple locations, ensuring wider visibility, enhanced market access, greater footprint of visitors and buyers, and sustained socio-economic upliftment of the artisan and weaver community.

 

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