Srinagar Jan 22: (KNS): The National institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Srinagar on Monday commemorated its foundation day (pan-India level) by organising a series of the events.
As part of the celebratory activities, the institute honored three exemplary artisans, each contributing significantly to the arts and crafts of the region.
One of the artisans felicitated was Abdul Majeed Dar, a tweed weaver with exceptional abilities, hailing from the village of Bandipora in North Kashmir. The felicitation was the acknowledgment of a Divyang (Deaf & Dumb) tweed weaver with three decades of experience, illustrating that skill knows no boundaries.
Despite being deaf and dumb, Majeed's weaving skills have thrived for three decades, making him a beacon for the endangered art of tweed weaving in the region.
The event also spotlighted Iqbal Hussain Wani, a seasoned craftsman specializing in Papermachie from the renowned hub, Zadibal area of Srinagar. Iqbal's expertise lies in Naqashi (painting) of papermachie items, a skill he has perfected over 25 years, ensuring the preservation of this traditional craft.
Another artisan, Abdul Gafar Sheikh, engaged in carpet weaving, brought pride to Wailo Kralpora Tangmarg in Baramulla district. With 40 years of dedication, Abdul Gaffar continues the legacy of high-quality carpet weaving, standing firm against the trend where many have shifted to alternative livelihoods.
Speaking on the event, Dr Javid Ahmad Wani Director NIFT Srinagar highlighted the contribution of NIFT in the economic and cultural prosperity of the country. He said "NIFT as a pan India institute has grown from 01 campus in 1986 to 19 in 2024. Over the years, NIFT graduates have proven their credentials in the textile industry. NIFT Alumni are providing effective leadership to the textile sector at national and international level. The future looks bright for us and we are ready to make a mark as an institute of eminence in Viksit Bharat @2047". The ceremony was attended by Mr Zubair Ahmad, Director Indian Institute of Carpet Technology, Srinagar who emphasised the commitment of NIFT to inclusivity and the promotion of traditional crafts. He complimented the Director NIFT Srinagar and his team for building world class infrastructure at Campus. The event was moderated by Dr Yaseer Ahmad Mir, Faculty and CIC.
A debate on NIFT's contribution and its potential role in realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 was also held at the occasion. The dialogue aimed to explore avenues for the institute to play a pivotal role in the nation's development.
As a gesture of community responsibility, a cleanliness drive was conducted on the NIFT campus, Ompora, Budgam. The approach road witnessed a facelift during the drive.(KNS)