Srinagar, Oct 15 (KNS): Master artisan Rafiq Ahmed Sofi from Eidgah in Srinagar has been selected for the National Award 2025 in the hand-knotted carpet category by the Union Ministry of Textiles, officials said on Thursday.

Sofi is the only artisan from Jammu and Kashmir to receive the award in this category for 2025.

According to the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, the award-winning carpet features intricate floral motifs, traditional architectural patterns and calligraphic elements, reflecting the region's rich weaving heritage.

Congratulating Sofi, a spokesperson for the Directorate said the recognition was a tribute to his craftsmanship and contribution to Kashmir's traditional carpet industry.

"This honour recognises his exceptional craftsmanship and contribution to the traditional art of hand-knotted carpet weaving," the spokesperson said.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The Directorate said the achievement would also help promote Kashmir's carpet industry at the national level.

Kashmir's hand-knotted carpets are known for their intricate designs, fine knotting techniques and traditional taleem system of weaving instructions. The craft received Geographical Indication (GI) registration in 2016.

The spokesperson said Sofi's recognition demonstrated the continued relevance of Kashmir's traditional handicrafts and encouraged other artisans to maintain high standards of craftsmanship.

Sofi will be formally felicitated at the National Awards ceremony scheduled for December 2026. (KNS)