Bilal Bashir Bhat
Srinagar, November 26: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha marked a significant milestone in Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural and economic development by coining the slogan “Made in Jammu Kashmir” during the 60th-anniversary celebration of the World Crafts Council (WCC) in Srinagar.
The event, attended by national and international artisans, designers, and creative leaders, aimed to showcase and enhance the global recognition of J&K’s unique handloom and handicraft traditions.
In his speech, LG Sinha emphasized the government’s efforts to transform J&K into a global hub for artistic and cultural heritage. Highlighting initiatives such as the Handicrafts and Handloom Policy 2020, QR codes for authenticating Kashmiri carpets, and modernized packaging, Sinha reiterated the administration’s dedication to empowering artisans and entrepreneurs.
He also revealed plans to integrate local crafts with tourism, positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a premier cultural destination for global visitors.
The event also included the launch of a “Seal of Authenticity” for craft products to preserve the heritage and ensure global trust in J&K’s creations. WCC President Sa’ad Hani Al-Qaddumi lauded Srinagar’s journey toward becoming a global craft hub and announced future collaborative projects.
The celebration paid tribute to Kamala Devi Chattopadhyay, a pioneer in Indian handicrafts, while honoring local artisans include legendry Mohammad Yusuf Muran who have excelled in their fields.
Attendees, including Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo and international delegates, applauded the vision to connect local craftsmanship to global markets, enhancing economic opportunities for the artisans of Jammu and Kashmir.
This initiative aligns with Jammu and Kashmir’s goal of promoting exports, boosting the local economy, and preserving its rich cultural legacy.