Srinagar, Jun 03 (KNS): The Comprehensive Database of more than 4 lac artisans associated with the different crafts in the state is being undertaken by JTFRP (Jhelum & Tawi Flood Recovery Project) funded by the World Bank. The contract agreement to this effect has been signed by JTFRP with M/s Spectrum Planning (India) Limited. As per the agreement the company will undertake census of craft practitioners in J&K and develop a complete Artisan Database.

Handicrafts sector traditionally being one of the mainstays of the State’s economy is contributing significantly to employment generation as well as foreign exchange earnings. Conscious of the sector’s immense economic potential, the State Government has over the years, undertaken various projects to build artisan capacity, improve linkages and spur development of the sector.

“To improve the reach, target and effectiveness of various handicraft oriented state and central schemes a comprehensive Artisan Database is essential need of the hour,” said Dr.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelRaghav Langer, Chief Executive Officer JTFRP/JKERA.

The Artisan Census will cover over more than 4 lac estimated artisans associated with major crafts across the State of Jammu and Kashmir.

Inderjeet, Director Handicrafts J&K, said that although the Department has generated a database of the some Artisans through registration but it lacks the socio-economic profile and other details of the Artisans. He said that state-wide census will help us in identifying the Artisan clusters, raw material requirements, need for upgradation of tools and machinery, Direct Benefit Transfer etc. The Artisan Census shall be carried out using State of the Art Technology wherein the Data shall be collected using an Android based Mobile Application which will be Geo-tagged and directly fed into the MIS Database. The Artisan Census will be first of its kind comprehensive survey of the Artisans across the State of J&K is scheduled to be completed by May 2020. (KNS)