Kashmir's KCCI, Indian textiles secretary discuss handicrafts sector

24 Feb '25

2 min read

Kashmir's KCCI, Indian textiles secretary discuss handicrafts sector

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The handicrafts sector in India's Kashmir region is in a crisis, witnessing a substantial decline in exports, and that has directly hit thousands of artisan families across the valley, a Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) delegation recently informed Indian textiles secretary Neelam Shami Rao.
KCCI aims at raising Kashmir's handicraft exports to $346.22 million within three years.

The handicrafts sector in India’s Kashmir region is in a crisis, witnessing a substantial decline in exports, and that has directly hit thousands of artisan families across the valley, a Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) delegation recently informed Indian textiles secretary Neelam Shami Rao.

Led by KCCI president Javid Ahmad Tenga, the delegation discussed with Rao challenges facing the sector and comprehensive strategies for its revival

The delegation emphasised how this threatens the economic sustainability of artisan communities and risks the disappearance of centuries-old artistic traditions.

KCCI aims at increasing Kashmir’s handicraft exports to ₹3,000 crore ($346.22 million) within the next three years.

The delegation proposed setting up an international-standard mart in Kashmir that would serve as a year-round venue for craft exhibitions, buyer-seller meets and cultural exchanges, potentially transforming Kashmir into a major hub for handicraft trade, media reports from the state said.

Rao assured to support an international exhibition in Srinagar in September-October 2025. The exhibition, to be jointly organised by KCCI and various craft councils, aims at offering a platform for local manufacturers and exporters of handicrafts to showcase their work to international buyers and establish direct market connections.

The critical need for creating awareness among artisans about modern market demands while preserving traditional techniques was realized during the discussions.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)

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