J&K’s Handicraft and Handloom Sector Receives Boost Through Centrally Sponsored Schemes
J&K Government Launches Major Initiatives to Boost Handicraft and Handloom Sector
Srinagar, Mar 22: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has rolled out multiple initiatives aimed at empowering artisans and weavers while strengthening the region’s handicraft and handloom sector. These efforts, part of centrally sponsored schemes, focus on financial assistance, technical support, and employment generation across the Union Territory.
In response to a question raised by MLA Mir Saifuddin in the Legislative Assembly, the government outlined various schemes designed to support artisans. Under the Weavers Mudra Scheme, 6,718 cases have been sponsored, with 3,037 sanctioned and 2,171 disbursed, amounting to Rs 2,536.85 crore in financial aid.
To enhance infrastructure, the government has established the Craft Development Institute and the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology in Srinagar. Additionally, a Rs 5 crore grant from the Ministry of Textiles has been approved for a Wool Processing Common Facility Center in Srinagar, alongside a proposal worth Rs 5.50 crore for a Pashmina Dehairing Centre to modernize wool processing and improve product quality.
Under the National Handicrafts Development Programme, 12 new proposals worth Rs 52 crore have been submitted to the Ministry of Textiles. These focus on improving infrastructure, quality standards, and market expansion for artisan products. The government has also proposed establishing a Craft Village in Akad Anantnag and the Indian Institute of Textiles and Handlooms in Basohli, Kathua.
A Bamboo Cluster in Samba has also been proposed, with an estimated cost of Rs 4.30 crore, under the Cluster Development Programme, which aims to establish craft clusters under centrally sponsored schemes.
To further promote rural economic growth, the government highlighted the Wool Processing Handloom and Handicrafts Policy 2020, designed to uplift artisans, wool farmers, and weavers by providing easy access to working capital and domestic and international markets. Several schemes under this policy include:
- Training and Capacity Building for Artisans and Weavers
- Credit Card Scheme for Artisans and Weavers 2020
- Export Subsidy Scheme 2021
- Financial Support Scheme for Cooperatives
- Minimum Support Price (MSP) Scheme
To boost visibility and market access, the government has intensified promotion campaigns, exhibitions, awareness drives, and e-commerce platforms for artisans, women entrepreneurs, and MSMEs. Additionally, Craft Certification programs are being introduced to enhance recognition and credibility for J&K’s artisan products.
With these initiatives, the J&K government aims to revitalize the region’s handicraft and handloom sector, ensuring sustainable livelihoods for artisans and global recognition for local craftsmanship.
