Srinagar: Chairman of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) Kashmir, A P Vicky Shaw, on Monday held a detailed meeting with Secretary Textiles, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, Smt. Neelam Shami Rao, IAS, in Srinagar to discuss the revival and growth of Jammu and Kashmir’s textile, handicraft, handloom, wool, and silk sectors.
During the interaction, Shaw presented a comprehensive set of proposals to address pressing challenges and unlock growth opportunities for these traditional industries, which continue to be central to the livelihoods of thousands of artisans in the Union Territory.
Key recommendations included making reputed national organizations with an established presence in J&K eligible partners under marketing assistance schemes, thereby enhancing the reach of local products across India and beyond. He also called for the introduction of the SMARTH scheme for skill development in the region and the reintroduction of the Power Tex scheme to encourage the modern power loom sector, boosting productivity and competitiveness.
The PHDCCI delegation further raised the issue of under-utilization of idle space at the Common Facility Centre (CFC) within the Integrated Handicraft Silk Park at Zakura, Srinagar, suggesting its optimal use for the benefit of artisans and local enterprises. The welfare of artisans, described as the backbone of the handicraft sector, was also a prominent theme of the discussion.
A major proposal shared was the organization of a national-level textile expo, fashion show, and buyer-seller meet in New Delhi under a market support initiative. Shaw said such an event would provide artisans and weavers from J&K and Ladakh with a premier platform to showcase their craftsmanship before national and international buyers.
Textiles Secretary Neelam Shami Rao gave a patient hearing to the concerns and suggestions. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment, stating, “Kashmir is always close to our heart.” Rao assured that all necessary assistance and technical support would be extended to strengthen marketing avenues and infrastructure development for the sustainable growth of the sectors.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides agreeing to collaborate closely on the proposed initiatives aimed at revitalizing J&K’s traditional textile and craft ecosystem.
