A special inspection drive was conducted today at copper manufacturing units and establishments operating across various areas of Srinagar city, along with representatives of the Kashmir Copper Workers Trade Union.
The drive was carried out in the areas of Solina, Rambagh, Nowgam, Natipora and Habbakadal, with the objective of checking adherence by copperware manufacturers and traders to the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Prohibition on Manufacture of Specified Copper Utensils (by Machine) Act, 2006, and to stop the misbranding of machine-made specified copper utensils, which is affecting the livelihood of handicraft workers engaged in handmade copper production.
During the inspection, dealers and manufacturers found violating the provisions of the Act were warned of serious consequences if they continued the illegal and prohibited machine manufacturing of specified copperware items. Dealers were also cautioned about the serious legal action they may face if found indulging in the misbranding of specified copperware products. All dealers and manufacturers assured full cooperation with the department’s ongoing efforts to curb misbranding of notified craft products.
As per the provisions of the Act, there is a complete prohibition on the manufacture by machine of 24 specified copper utensils in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The department has initiated several measures to safeguard the interests of artisans engaged in the handmade production of copperware items.
In this regard, the department has launched an ambitious QR-based labelling programme for copperware items to ensure certification and authenticity of handmade products. Teams from the Quality Control Division visited business establishments for on-site labelling of handmade copperware, with the facility being provided to artisans at their doorsteps.
The department has urged all copperware dealers to conduct their business strictly in accordance with the provisions of the Act and to refrain from misbranding machine-made copperware items. It was further emphasized that QR-based labelling of every notified craft product must be ensured. (Agencies)
