Srinagar, August 01 (KNS): In a major step towards reviving the traditional Namdha craft of Kashmir, the Government has approved funding for the refurbishment and installation of a high-capacity Carding Machine at the UNDP wing, aiming to modernize wool processing and ease the burden on artisans.
The initiative, falling under the Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) plan, is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the infrastructure of the handicrafts and handloom sector and preserve traditional arts that are on the verge of decline.
Namdha—an age-old Kashmiri craft involving felting and embroidery on woollen fabric—has witnessed a gradual drop in production due to the lack of mechanized facilities, high input costs, and the labour-intensive nature of traditional methods.
Deputy Director UNDP, Mirza Shahid Ali, in a statement issued, said the refurbishment of the Carding Machine will significantly reduce manual labour and processing time, increase productivity, and make the craft economically viable once again.
“This initiative not only boosts production but also aligns with the government’s vision to revive endangered crafts like Namdha.
Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelThe upgraded machinery will help artisans meet both domestic and international demand more efficiently,” he said.
He added that the department will ensure timely refurbishment and installation of the machine and provide skill-based training to artisans to maximize its utility.
The intervention is expected to attract younger generations towards the craft, improve working conditions, and revive economic prospects for hundreds of artisans dependent on the Namdha sector, which holds immense cultural and market value.
The move has been widely welcomed by stakeholders, who see it as a meaningful step to restore the legacy of Namdha and make it sustainable in the modern economy. (KNS)