CEPC seeks J&K govt action on machine-made carpets masquerading as handmade

Ziraat Times Team Report

New Delhi: In a decisive move to protect the interests of India’s traditional carpet industry and its artisan community, the Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC) convened an urgent Committee of Administration (COA) and Board meeting today. The primary agenda was to address the alarming rise of machine-made carpets being falsely marketed and sold as handmade carpets, a practice that has triggered widespread concern among stakeholders, particularly in Kashmir’s artisan and weaver community.

The CEPC noted that this deceptive trade practice is causing severe damage to the reputation of India’s globally acclaimed handmade carpet industry. Moreover, it is threatening the livelihoods of thousands of artisans and weavers, many of whom are based in the Kashmir region and have preserved this intricate art form for generations.

In response to the growing crisis, the COA unanimously resolved to escalate the matter to the highest levels of government. The Council will formally appeal to the Ministry of Textiles (MoT) and the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), seeking immediate intervention and stringent regulatory action to curb this fraudulent trade practice.

“The integrity of India’s handmade carpet sector is under grave threat,” said CEPC Chairman Shri Kuldeep Raj Wattal, emphasizing the Council’s commitment to preserving the authenticity and heritage of handmade carpets. He noted that artisans’ livelihoods are at stake, particularly those from Kashmir, whose handcrafted carpets are renowned worldwide for their quality and intricate designs.

As part of its action plan, the CEPC will recommend the formation of a dedicated enforcement team under the Government of India. This team will be tasked with conducting raids and investigations on businesses suspected of misrepresenting machine-made carpets as handmade. It will also be empowered to take legal action against violators, thereby ensuring accountability and compliance with established trade practices.

“The fraudulent selling of machine-made carpets as handmade undermines not only the industry’s reputation but also erodes consumer trust,” said Sh. Sheikh Ashiq, a COA member from Jammu and Kashmir. “Swift enforcement and regulatory oversight are essential to protect our artisans and sustain the centuries-old craft of handmade carpets.”

Joining Chairman Wattal in voicing concern were Sh. Shaukat Khan, Sh. Meraj Jan, and other COA members from Jammu and Kashmir, along with representatives from other regions. The members reaffirmed the Council’s unwavering commitment to preserving the legacy of India’s handmade carpet industry and pledged to stand in solidarity with the artisans whose craftsmanship forms the backbone of this sector.

The CEPC reiterated its mission to promote, protect, and preserve India’s rich heritage of handmade carpet weaving. The Council pledged to extend its active support and collaboration with law enforcement agencies, ensuring unfair trade practices are swiftly identified and eradicated.

“The CEPC stands with the artisan community,” Chairman Wattal said. “We will leave no stone unturned to safeguard the authenticity of handmade carpets, which are not just products but a reflection of India’s cultural and artistic excellence.”

The Council plans to initiate a public awareness campaign to educate buyers and exporters on identifying genuine handmade carpets and understanding the value of authentic craftsmanship. Additionally, CEPC is expected to work closely with industry associations and certification bodies to promote authentication labels and GI (Geographical Indication) tagging as a means of protecting the integrity of Indian handmade carpets in both domestic and international markets.

The Council expressed optimism that with government support and strict enforcement mechanisms, the current crisis can be averted, and India’s handmade carpet industry can continue to flourish as a symbol of heritage, quality, and skilled artistry.