Riyaz Bhat
Srinagar, Aug 21: Citing the huge economic potential of handloom and handicrafts, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha Monday said that they are rigorously focusing to create opportunities for the local as well as international players.
Sinha said, “ There are many opportunities here for the international players in handloom and handicrafts and various other sectors.”
Speaking during an event at University of Kashmir (KU) titled ‘Jammu and Kashmir Textiles Sourcing Fair Weaving Dreams Stitching Stories’, the Lt Governor said that handloom and handicraft sector is one of the main sources of capital.
“From past three years, Jammu and Kashmir is on the rise in industries and textiles at global level,” he said.
Sinha said that the gift of handloom and handicraft artisans will bring joy and happiness to the global world.
Citing an example, he said that everyone witnesses how a simple piece of fibre is transformed into an art by the skilled artisans. “That is some kind of magic of those artisans.”
“The government is focused on reviving various crafts of the sector in the global market,” Sinha said.
He further said, “Despite challenges, post COVID-19 pandemic, Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory (UT) is receiving more attention across the world in handicrafts and handloom sectors.”
“In past three years, growth in the sector has improved the quality of life here,” Sinha said, adding
“We need to work together to get it a rightful place in the international market.”
The Lt Governor also said that the Jammu and Kashmir administration was also focusing on infrastructural development of handloom and handicraft sectors.
“We are witnessing a dawn of new era and peace. We welcome the investors from the nation and beyond,” he said.
Sinha added, “Let’s remember that this is not just an economic reformation but a diversity of vibrant culture and rich heritage that will continue to flourish.”
Speaking about the tourism in Kashmir, Sinha said, “Last year, we hosted over 18 million tourists and this year from the past seven months, we have crossed 30 million tourists including the national and international visitors.”
