Srinagar, Nov 14 (JKNS): SPVLG Artisans Foundation, in collaboration with the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, organised a stakeholder workshop under Project SIDBI CARES FANKAAR to deliberate on strategies for strengthening the artisan ecosystem and promoting sustainable livelihood opportunities for artisans across Jammu and Kashmir.
The Project is being funded by Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI).
The workshop was attended by several distinguished officials, experts and representatives from institutions associated with the handicrafts and handloom sector.
The key participants included Arjumand Yaqoob, Deputy Director, Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir; Sadiya, Assistant Director; Mohd. Javed Jamal, Assistant Professor, National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT); Khubaib, Representative of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Government of India; and Sajid Nazir, Senior Faculty, Craft Development Institute (CDI).
The workshop also witnessed the participation of prominent artisans including Ghulam Nabi Dar (Padamshri Awardee and master artisan in walnut craft) and members of civil society.
At the outset, Mr. Mohd. Ashraf Wani, Chairman, SPVLG Artisans Foundation, provided an overview of the organisation, its work in the development sector and its initiatives towards livelihood promotion and artisan empowerment.
He also presented the objectives, proposed interventions and implementation strategy of Project SIDBI CARES FANKAAR, highlighting the importance of institutional collaboration in strengthening artisan enterprises and improving their access to finance, technology and markets.
Addressing the gathering, Arjumand Yaqoob, Deputy Director, emphasised the importance of design diversification and innovation in the handicrafts sector.
She highlighted the need for artisans to adapt to changing consumer preferences while preserving the traditional identity of Kashmiri crafts. She also stressed the growing importance of e-commerce platforms in expanding market reach and creating new opportunities for artisans to promote and sell their products beyond traditional markets.
Khubaib, Representative of the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Government of India, briefed participants about various government schemes and welfare initiatives available for artisans.
He particularly highlighted the importance of the Pehchan Card in facilitating artisan identification and access to government support, along with the pension scheme and other welfare benefits designed to improve the social and economic security of artisans. He encouraged artisans to avail themselves of the benefits of these schemes.
Sharing his insights, Sajid Nazir, Senior Faculty, Craft Development Institute (CDI), highlighted the significance of Geographical Indication (GI) in the authentication, protection and differentiation of traditional craft products. He explained how GI certification helps establish the authenticity and geographical identity of products, protects the traditional knowledge of artisan communities and enhances their market value and competitiveness.
The workshop also provided an opportunity for Mohd. Javed Jamal, Assistant Professor, NIFT, representatives of the Directorate, artisans and other stakeholders to exchange views and share suggestions on improving product design, quality, innovation, market access and enterprise development.
The deliberations focused on key challenges confronting artisans, including access to institutional finance, enterprise formalisation, design development, digital integration, market linkages, product authentication and awareness regarding government welfare schemes. Participants underscored the need for stronger coordination among government departments, financial institutions, technical institutions and implementing agencies to create a more supportive ecosystem for artisans.
The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the valuable contributions of all participating dignitaries, institutional representatives, prominent artisans and civil society members. SPVLG Artisans Foundation reiterated its commitment to working closely with the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, and other stakeholders to promote sustainable livelihoods, strengthen traditional craft-based enterprises and enhance the economic empowerment of artisans in Kashmir. (JKNS)
