Handicrafts, Handloom represent our rich, diverse Heritage: Dy CM

Srinagar, Oct 16: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary Thursday said that the handicrafts and handloom art represent rich and diverse heritage of Jammu and Kashmir, and Government is fully committed to preserve and promote this legacy for future generations.
The Deputy Chief Minister made these remarks after inaugurating seven days Gandhi Shilp Bazar–2025 at Kashmir Haat, here Thursday.
The Bazar is being organized by Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organization (JKTPO) under the aegis of Industries and Commerce Department, as part of its ongoing initiatives under the National Handicraft Development Programme (NHDP).
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister said that Gandhi Shilp Bazar provides a national-level marketing platform for artisans, bringing together craftspeople from across the country to showcase their exceptional craftsmanship and promote the vibrant heritage of Indian handicrafts.
He added that the week-long bazar will feature live craft demonstrations and direct sales of artefacts at concessional rates, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness the artistry behind India’s handicrafts and purchase authentic handmade products directly from the artisans.
“I hope our artisans benefit from this initiative. Handicrafts and handloom reflect our composite culture, co-existence, and harmony, such events go a long way in ensuring their continued promotion,” the Deputy Chief Minister remarked.
During his visit, the Deputy CM inspected various stalls and interacted with artisans, reiterating the Government’s commitment to promotion and development of handicraft and handloom sectors.
Managing Director, JKTPO; Director, Industries & Commerce, Kashmir; Director, Handicrafts & Handloom, Kashmir; Director, IICT; Managing Director, Handicrafts Corporation; General Manager, DIC Srinagar; Assistant Director, DCH; General Manager, JKTPO, and other senior officers were present on the occasion.
Pertinently, around 40 artisans from across India are participating in the event, showcasing a diverse range of handmade products like Pashmina, Kani Shawls, Sozni Embroidery, Paper Mache, Chain Stitch, Basohli Paintings, Crewelwork, Cane and Bamboo, Dry Flower Art, Candle Making, Kapadaganda Dungaria, and Kondh Embroidery Shawls, among others.
The event is part of a series of exhibitions being organized in major cities and metropolitan areas across India to help artisans market their products and preserve traditional art forms and cultural expressions.
Notably, JKTPO recently organized GI Fair – Buyer-Seller Meet at District Budgam, sponsored by Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India to promote handicrafts and support artisans across Jammu and Kashmir.