Srinagar, July 24 (KNS): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday directed the Industries & Commerce Department to take strict action against showrooms and retailers selling machine-made carpets under the label of Kashmiri hand-knotted products.

The Chief Minister warned that counterfeit carpets were damaging the globally acclaimed brand of Kashmiri hand-made carpets and threatening the livelihood of thousands of artisan families dependent on this traditional craft.

A joint delegation from the Carpet Export Promotion Council, Indian Silk Export Promotion Council, Meeras Carpet Weavers Cooperative, Kashmir Carpet Cluster Development Organization, and Kashmir Carpet Manufacturers Association met the Chief Minister at the Civil Secretariat, demanding a complete ban on the sale of machine-made carpets in handicrafts-registered outlets and stronger enforcement of the Geographical Indication (GI) tag to stop its misuse.

“These fake products not only hurt Kashmir’s identity but also rob artisans of their income,” the delegation told the CM.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

In separate meetings, delegations from Manigam (Ganderbal) sought protection of land for institutional use, while a group from an HR agency raised concerns over unpaid dues from the J&K Housing Board. Dental surgeons demanded creation of posts, and MLAs from Sopore and Trehgam highlighted local development issues.

The Private Schools’ Association also met Abdullah, urging faster issuance of NOCs, formation of a State School Standards Authority, and more representation for private schools in government education committees.

Addressing their concerns, the CM said all administrative secretaries have been directed to hold monthly reviews to ensure strict implementation of the Jammu & Kashmir Public Services Guarantee Act (PSGA). “Timely delivery of services is non-negotiable, and officers delaying services will face penalties,” he asserted.(KNS)