Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Aug 12: President of Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCC&I), Javid Ahmad Tenga on Monday expressed concern over the increasing reports of fake and machine-made products being sold to tourists under the guise of authentic Kashmir handicrafts.
Addressing the media persons in Srinagar, Tenga, said such unethical practices threaten to undermine the very foundation of the traditional handicraft industry, which has been the pride of Kashmir for centuries.
“This is a matter of grave concern as such malpractice is bound to cut into the very roots of our traditional handicraft business,” said Tenga.
He assured that KCC&I is committed to taking necessary steps to protect, preserve, and promote the rich heritage of Kashmir’s handicrafts, which are renowned worldwide for their quality and craftsmanship.
Tenga said the origins of these crafts back to the 14th century, introduced by Hazrat Shahi Hamdan Mir Syed Mir Ali Hamadani (RA), and has flourished under the reign of Sultan Zainul Abidin in the 15th century.
“Over the years, these handicrafts, including pashmina shawls, sozni embroidery, mulberry silk products, carpets, wood carving, papier-mâché, and copperware, etc., have played a crucial role in the economy, providing employment to thousands of artisans and traders,” said Tenga.
“The sale of fake products has severely started affecting the traders dealing in genuine handcrafted products,” said Tenga, adding that it has also shattered the confidence of visitors who feel cheated after discovering they have purchased counterfeit items.
“We feel duty-bound to warn those traders who indulge in selling machine-made products in the name of genuine Kashmir handicrafts to desist from such unscrupulous business practices,” Tenga said.
“The KCC&I is set to establish special squads to identify and expose such traders, ensuring that the traditional handicraft industry, a key pillar of Kashmir’s cultural and economic identity, remains intact,” he added.
