Srinagar, Sep 13 (KNS): In a collective call to protect Kashmir’s rich craft legacy, a seminar titled “Safeguarding Handicrafts & Golden Hands of Kashmir – Authenticity Matters: Protecting the Pride of Kashmir” was held in Srinagar. The event brought together artisans, policymakers, exporters, and organizations from across the Valley to address the growing threat of counterfeit products overshadowing authentic Kashmiri handicrafts.
Director Handicrafts Masrat-ul-Islam assured stakeholders of strict implementation of safeguarding measures, reiterating that there will be “no space for counterfeit sales” in Kashmir’s markets. He emphasized institutional support to protect artisans’ livelihoods and underlined the government’s commitment to strengthening authenticity frameworks and ensuring global recognition of Kashmiri crafts.
Alongside enforcement, Masrat-ul-Islam also highlighted the government’s latest welfare and promotional schemes for artisans. He said departmental teams are working closely with stakeholders to ensure these benefits reach grassroots artisans and business owners transparently.
Director IICT, Zubair, reaffirmed the institution’s full backing of artisan-centered initiatives and stressed the importance of blending innovation with tradition to keep Kashmiri crafts competitive in global markets.
The seminar was jointly organized by Sheikh Ashiq, COA Member of the Carpet Export Promotion Council and Indian Silk Export Promotion Council, in partnership with Meeras Carpet Weavers Industrial Co-operative Limited, Kashmir Carpet Cluster Development Organization, Kashmir Carpet Manufacturers Association, Tahafuz, and Viraasat. The gathering included national award-winning artisans, designers, government officials, and media representatives, showcasing unity in safeguarding Kashmir’s creative economy.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Key speakers shared strong perspectives on the way forward. Sheikh Ashiq emphasized that since the introduction of the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, no handmade carpet has been exported without GI certification, reflecting commitment to authenticity. Poet and historian Zareef Ahmad Zareef highlighted handicrafts as a vital part of Kashmir’s identity. Consultant Mushtaq Ahmad pointed to enforcement challenges and called for blacklisting of firms involved in counterfeit trade. President of Kashmir Handicraft Alliance Parvez Ahmad Bhat urged strict implementation of existing laws to secure artisans’ livelihoods. Chairman of Viraasat Abdul Majeed demanded zero tolerance against fake and machine-made products. Appreciating departmental efforts, Bilal Ahmad Kawoosa acknowledged ongoing initiatives but stressed the need for stronger vigilance.
Speakers expressed deep concern over the alarming rise of counterfeit and machine-made carpets falsely marketed as Kashmiri handicrafts, warning that this threatens the economic stability of thousands of artisans whose painstaking handwork sustains this centuries-old heritage.
Officials highlighted enforcement measures including blacklisting firms, stricter labeling, and intensified monitoring. Participants, however, urged faster and more effective implementation to protect the authenticity and survival of the sector.
The seminar concluded with a collective pledge to strengthen GI certification systems, intensify awareness campaigns, and empower artisan communities across the Valley. Organizers announced that future seminars and awareness drives will continue under the campaign “Authenticity Matters” to safeguard Kashmir’s handicraft legacy for generations to come.(KNS)