Srinagar, August 07:(KNS) On the occasion of National Handlooms Day and on inaugural function of the Kanihama Craft Village supported/sponsored by Developmental Commissioner (Handloom) Ministry of Textiles GoI, on the project of RS 2.56 Crore, Principal Secretary to Government I&C Department, Ranjan Kumar Thakur, specified the need of such initiatives that will result the sale of the Kani and other allied products of Handloom and Handicrafts in the craft cum tourist village . Principal Secretary also released a documentary on the world famous Handloom and TWEED products in order to honour the golden hands.
Speaking on the occasion Director Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir, Mahmood Ahmad Shah, highlighted the role of the department in upgrading the morale of the weavers. The Director Handicrafts and Handloom also informed that the State Awards, which are being conferred upon Handicrafts Artisans will now be granted to weavers for which the prize money in different crafts is Rs 50000/- Rs 3000/- and Rs 20000/- for first, second and third prize respectively.
In addition, Director Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir also informed the participants that the Karkhandar Scheme which has been sanctioned by the Government will also be implemented shortly for the benefit of the Artisan and Weaver community and in particular for the unemployed youth who are interested in making their livelihood in craft sector. Further, the education scheme for the artisan and weavers is also in pipeline wherein Rs 1500/- upto primary classes, Rs 2000/- from 6th -10thth classes and Actual fee of Government Higher secondary school and for technical /professional course will be given to the children, of the artisans/weavers.
Director Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir on the occasion also said that the Handloom along with Handicrafts sector constitutes an integral part of the rural and semi-rural livelihood, and is most vibrant aspect of cultural heritage. He assured the artisan/weavers community that the department is adamant in supporting the Artisan/Weavers community of Kashmir to get earnings commensurate with market price of the products and their skills and will link artisans/weavers directly with the market, provide them inputs in terms of new designs and product diversification, facilitate artisans/ weavers in production of high value, good quality products by providing skill upgradation, better technology, infrastructure and easy availability of raw material & working capital.(KNS)