Mubashir Aalam Wani
Srinagar, Jul 30: Kashmir’s handloom and handicraft exports have more than doubled over the past two years, with export figures going above worth Rs1100 crores.
As per the figures available, exports surged from Rs 563 crore in 2021-22 to a remarkable Rs 1,162 crore in 2023-24, reflecting a robust growth trajectory.
The sharp increase highlights the rising global demand for Kashmiri craftsmanship, renowned for its intricate designs and high-quality materials.
Figures suggested that against Rs 165.98 crore in 2021-22, the shawls worth Rs 424.20 were exported in the last fiscal. Similarly, against Rs 251.05 crore in 2021-22, the carpets worth Rs 357.21 crore were exported in 2022-23.
The other handicrafts and handloom items too witnessed a surge in exports especially after government promoted and preserved their authenticity by issuing geographic Indication tag to the prized crafts.
Artisans attribute this growth to a combination of factors: enhanced global awareness of Kashmiri crafts, improved marketing strategies, and strengthened export channels.
“Government initiatives and support have also played a crucial role in this surge. Policies aimed at promoting exports and providing incentives to the handicraft sector have contributed to the sector’s expansion,” said Khalid Ahmad Bhat, a Pashimna artisan.
He said the promotion and enhancement in the exhibition have contributed to the growth of the handicraft sales across India as well.
“We have a good demand also. We get orders from various states with people preferring to buy Kashmir handicrafts with GI tags. This increase in the demand has boosted the production as well,” Bhat said.
Officials said the government has taken various initiatives to promote and market Kashmir handicrafts worldwide. “From exhibitions to promotional campaigns, the department took various initiatives to promote Kashmir handicrafts. GI tag proved a game changer as the demand has increased which subsequently enhanced the exports of handicrafts to various countries. Currently we have a good demand for handicrafts from the Gulf, Europe and other nations,” they said.
