World Craft Forum in Srinagar: KCCI welcomes the event

31 October 2024

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Srinagar, Oct 31: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has warmly welcomed the World Craft Council’s (WCC) decision to host its prestigious World Craft Forum in Kashmir during its diamond jubilee celebrations, terming it a historic opportunity for the region’s craft sector.

KCCI emphasized that the forum, coinciding with WCC’s 60th anniversary (diamond jubilee), represents a golden opportunity for Kashmir’s craft sector.

The three-day international event, scheduled at SKICC from November 25-27, follows its first leg in New Delhi (November 22-24).

“This landmark event opens unprecedented opportunities for our craftsmen, artisans, and exporters to showcase their products directly to international buyers and craft connoisseurs,” said KCCI President, Javid Ahmad Tenga.

“The participation of 50 international artists from diverse backgrounds will create valuable networking opportunities and potential business linkages for our craft community.”
The timing is particularly significant as Srinagar was recently declared a World Craft City by WCC, joining an elite group of only 66 cities worldwide with this recognition. This designation acknowledges Kashmir’s centuries-old craft traditions and their continued relevance in contemporary times.

KCCI highlighted that local craftsmen and exporters should fully utilize this opportunity to establish direct connections with international markets. The forum will focus on critical areas including craft preservation, modernization, and sustainable development, while crafting a comprehensive roadmap for the next decade through policy initiatives and international cooperation.

“We urge all stakeholders, particularly our craftsmen, exporters, and craft organizations, to participate in this prestigious event. This is a rare opportunity to showcase Kashmir’s rich craftsmanship directly to an international audience and establish valuable business connections,” the statement added.

It may be recalled that Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry played a significant role from the very beginning for getting Srinagar accredited as a member of World Craft Council by presenting its case before the Jury during their first visit of Kashmir Prof. Somesh Singh (India), WCC- International Entity Member, Mr. Sohan Kumar Jha (India), Senior Director National Crafts Museum and Hastkala Academy, WCC International Entity Member, Delhi and Mr. Abhishek Kumar (India), Head of Craft Division, Advantage Designs Inc, WCC Jury Member, Delhi. Subsequently KCCI also met the President of WCC Sa’ad Hani Al-Qaddumi KCCI commends Lt. Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, Chief Secretary, Commissioner, Industries & Commerce Vikramjeet Singh, Director Handicrafts & Handlooms Mehmood Shah and his colleagues, Kashmir INTACH Head Saleem Beigh for their significant contribution in this regard. The event will also help in promotion of tourism.