Category: BUSINESS

Handicrafts are not only a part of our cultural identity but also an important source of livelihood: President Droupadi Murmu

New Delhi , December 9: The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, presented National Handicrafts Awards for the years 2023 and 2024 in New Delhi today (December 9, 2025).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that art reflects our memories of the past, experiences of the present, and aspirations for the future. Humans have been expressing their emotions through painting or sculpture since ancient times. Art connects people to culture. Art also connects people with each other.

The President said that if our centuries-old handicraft tradition has remained vibrant and preserved, it is due to the commitment of our artisans, generation after generation. Our artisans have adapted their art and tradition to changing times, while keeping the original spirit alive. They have preserved the fragrance of the country’s soil in each of their artistic creations.

The President said that handicrafts are not only a part of our cultural identity but also an important source of livelihood. This sector employs over 3.2 million people in the country. It is noteworthy that most of the people who derive employment and income from handicrafts live in rural or remote areas. This sector promotes inclusive development by decentralizing employment and income.

The President said that promoting handicrafts is important for social empowerment, as this sector has traditionally provided support to people from weaker sections. Handicrafts not only provide a means of livelihood to artisans, but their art also gives them recognition and respect in society. She stated that the development of this sector will also strengthen women’s empowerment, as women comprise 68 percent of the workforce in this sector.

The President said that the handicraft industry’s greatest strength is its reliance on natural and local resources. This industry is eco-friendly and has a low-carbon footprint. Today, the need for an eco-friendly and sustainable lifestyle is being emphasized worldwide. In such a context, this sector can make a significant contribution to sustainability.

The President was happy to note that the GI tag is strengthening the identity of the Indian handicraft products across the world. She urged all stakeholders to work towards obtaining a GI tag for their unique products. She said that the GI tag will give their products a unique identity and enhance their credibility at the national and international level. She underlined that the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative is also strengthening the international recognition of our regional handicraft products.

The President said that on the strength of the knowledge, dedication and hard work of our artisans accumulated over generations, Indian handicraft products have established their identity across the world. She underlined that the demand for Indian handicrafts offers immense potential for growth. She said that this sector offers excellent opportunities for young entrepreneurs and designers to establish enterprises.

HYDERABAD, DECEMBER 06: The J&K Tourism has bagged the Eco-Tourism hotspot award at the India International Tourism Mart being held here at Hyderabad.

The tourism fest was inaugurated on December 04, 2025 and it is witnessing participation of many states and Union territories besides delegations from Malaysia, Nepal, Botswana and other countries.

The J&K Tourism was awarded for its eco-tourism practices having been adopted for sustainable tourism across J&K by the Department. Besides this also coincides with the continued thrust and series of promotional activities carried by the department across the tourism markets in the country in recent months.

The stall set up by the J&K Tourism department evinced keen interest among the members of travel trade and customers who showed a great interest in the products on display particularly related to adventure, MICE and Wedding.

The delegation comprised Chief Executive Officer, Kishtwar Development Authority, Kaisar Ahmad Bhawani; Chief Executive Officer, Wullar-Manasbal Development Authority, Ahsanul Haq Chishti; General Manager, JKTDC, Riyaz Ahmad, Assistant Director, Tourism, Jammu, Arif Ahmad Lone and Assistant Tourist Officer, Sajid Kirmani besides many travel operators from J&K.

Meanwhile on the sidelines of the tourism fest, the delegation had a series of meetings with tour operators’ bodies from Hyderabad and other parts of the country besides facilitating proactive B2B sessions between the tourism stakeholders from J&K and their counterparts from other states. These include meetings with Tour Operators Association of Telangana, FTCCI, UFTC, representatives of SKAL International besides heads of prominent travel companies of the country. The discussions underscored the importance of more synchronised and cohesive approach between the local stakeholders and their counterparts across the country.

SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 05: A two-day Trainee Products’ Sale, organised by the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, began at Kashmir Haat, popularly known as Numaish Gah, here today.

Craft products made by trainees in 432 Training Centres across all 10 districts of Kashmir Division as well as hand-knotted woollen carpets made under Massive Carpet Scheme are on display and sale on extremely affordable prices, without adding the cost of labour.

In a press handout issued here today, a spokesman of the department stated that visitors in large number turned up at Kashmir Haat to buy handmade products, on cost-to-cost raw material basis. “District stalls are expected to record good sales with many buyers making purchase of GI-tagged Pashmina Shawls and Stoles, Crewel curtains, Sozni-embroidered shawls, Zari & Aari embroidered suits, tweed cloth, Chain Stitch rugs and cushion covers, Tapestry, Gabb and Namda products as well as papier mache and willow wicker souvenir and decor items,” he said, adding the sale will conclude tomorrow at 5.00 pm.

The spokesman stated that the hand-knotted woollen carpets made by weavers under Massive Carpet Scheme also received an overwhelming response with many carpets sold.

The Department also organised an awareness camp for trainees where they were sensitized about various flagship and welfare schemes of the department like Credit Card Scheme for Artisans and Weavers, Financial Support for Cooperatives & Karkhandar Schemes, the spokesman added.

JAMMU, DECEMBER 03: A United Kingdom based Business delegation led by Shri Vikrant Gupta, Managing Director, RVS iGlobal called on Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, today.
The delegation discussed important matters pertaining to Jammu’s growing IT infrastructure, support for digital expansion, and opportunities to strengthen international cooperation in the technology and services sector.

Says new partnership will strengthen global outreach, promote sustainable tourism in J&K

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 29: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today attended the launch of the SKÅL International Club, Kashmir Chapter in Srinagar, marking a significant step towards strengthening global tourism linkages and expanding international outreach for Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector.

The initiative is poised to open new avenues for sustainable tourism, international collaboration, and long-term growth, while further integrating Jammu & Kashmir with global tourism networks.

Addressing the function, the Chief Minister said that SKÅL’s core values resonate deeply with the ethos of Jammu and Kashmir. “If you look at SKÅL and you look at tourism in Kashmir, you realise that there are synergies that automatically become apparent. The word SKÅL is Nordic and the translation of those four words is good health, friendship, long life and happiness,” he said.

He noted that the organisation’s founding principles reflect the most basic aspirations of human life, going beyond monetary success. “An organisation whose name comes to symbolise these four important things is not talking about profit or other day-to-day concerns. These are the things we would wish for each other—good health, friendship, long life and happiness,” he said.

The Chief Minister highlighted that SKÅL’s philosophy of “business with friends” mirrors the spirit of Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism fraternity. “Here, many of my friends in the industry may be in competition with each other, yet they remain friends. They sit together, dine together, respect each other—and that is exactly what SKÅL talks about,” he remarked.

Underscoring the growing emphasis on responsible and sustainable tourism, Omar Abdullah said that tourism must evolve in a manner that protects both people and the environment. “If tourism is not responsible and sustainable, it will not last. A cornerstone of our recent activities has been to make tourism more responsible and more sustainable,” he said.

The Chief Minister revealed that the government is preparing to develop nine new tourism destinations in J&K as a megaproject entailing huge investment. “The foundation of this project is sustainability—environmentally responsible development that involves the local community. Tourism, or any industry that does not benefit locals, is an industry that will not survive,” he said.

Speaking about the resilience of the people of J&K despite recurring challenges, he noted, “We are nothing if not resilient. Yes, there is darkness, but it will not remain forever. Winters last for a few months; after that, snow melts and spring arrives. My desire, my wish, and my effort is that this spring lasts for years.”

Reflecting on the past turbulence in the tourism sector, he said, “We have seen a lot of ups and downs in J&K tourism. Now I want you to see only the upward trend. The relationship between SKÅL and Kashmir Tourism formalised today will benefit both SKÅL and the tourism industry here.”

The Chief Minister thanked SKÅL International and its leadership for choosing Kashmir for the new chapter, expressing hope that this marks the beginning of a lasting, fruitful partnership. “I hope this will be a great start to a new relationship, and that we will get to host such programmes again and again. You came and encouraged us,” he added.

MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, National President SKÅL Sanjeev Mehra, Director SKÅL NSN Mohan, several SKÅL members, tourism industry stakeholders, and senior officers were present at the launch event.

On the occasion, board members and founder members took their oath, followed by pinning and certificate presentation ceremonies.

Bashir Ahmad Dar & Mehraj ud din Pir won first prize in Annual UT Level Awards during 2024 & 2025

GANDERBAL, NOVEMBER 28: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore today felicitated the two award winning Willow Wicker craftsmen of the district in his office chamber, here.

Both the craftsmen had won first prize in Annual UT Level Awards for Willow Wicker category which is the ODOP (One District One Product) of District Ganderbal, in the year 2024 & 2025. They have also received a cash prize of Rs. 50,000 each.

Bashir Ahmad Dar of Pirpora Ganderbal had won first prize in Annual UT Level Award – 2023 and had received an award during the 60th Jubilee of World Craft Council on 26th of November, 2024.

Likewise, Mehraj ud din Pir of Pirpora Ganderbal has also won first prize in Annual UT Level Award for year 2024.

Officials of Handicrafts and Handloom department Ganderbal were present on the occasion.

Manzoor A. Khan & Khawaja Nazir Ali honoured in carpet weaving, sozni embroidery; 2 others get special mention

Awards ceremony at New Delhi on Dec 9

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 27: Adding yet another badge of honour on its already coveted robe, 02 master craftsmen have brought glory to Kashmir by winning the prestigious National Award in the handicrafts category, recently announced by the Union Ministry of Textiles.
Manzoor Ahmad Khan, from Rainawari and Khawaja Nazir Ali, from Alamgiri Bazar, Srinagar, shall be conferred with the National Award by the Hon’ble President of India for excellence in the field of hand-knotted carpet weaving and sozni embroidery at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi on December 09, next month.
In a press release issued here today, a spokesman of the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, thanked the Ministry of Textiles for bestowing the honour and congratulated the two master craftsmen for bringing laurels to Kashmir Handicrafts, which are famous for its intricate designs and vibrant colours all over the world. “We are elated on their recognition for their immense contribution in taking crafts like sozni and carpet weaving to the next level,” he added.
Quoting Field Officer, in the office of Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Sheikh Rafiq, the spokesman stated that the awards come with a citation and a cash prize of ₹2.00 lakh cheque. “Apart from the winners, two more craftsmen, Mashkoora Hameed from Budgam in sozni embroidery and Mir Arshad Hussain from Srinagar, in papier mache, have won special mention and have been invited to the function at Vigyan Bhawan,” he added.
Manzoor Ahmad Khan, a renowned weaver of hand-knotted carpet, was recently conferred first prize in UT Awards for the year 2024, at SKICC on Tuesday. “He also participated in the first edition of Know Your Artisan at Jhelum Riverfront and will also be actively engaged in Guru-Shishya Hastashilp Prashikshan Programme for Kupwara by Indian Institute of Carpet Technology, Srinagar,” he added.
Khawaja Nazir Ali has also distinguished himself in the field of sozni embroidery in recognition of which he has been honoured with the prestigious National Award.
Director Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, Mussarat Islam, also showered praise on the awardees and added that this recognition will provide traction to the famed handicrafts and handlooms of Kashmir and help in targeting newer niche markets, especially in South East Asia.
The Department shall shortly organize a function to felicitate the awardees and also those who have special mention by the office of Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles.

NEW DELHI, NOVEMBER 27: The Jammu and Kashmir Pavilion at the 44th India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025 concluded on a highly successful note, registering on-the-spot sales amounting approximately Rs. 13.50 crore and generating 6000+ business leads for the participating exhibitors.
These results underscore the strong market response to Jammu and Kashmir’s diverse product range, including world-renowned handicrafts, handlooms, agricultural and horticultural products, as well as the growing confidence of buyers and trade visitors in the quality, authenticity and competitiveness of products from the region.
Resounding the success of previous editions, this year’s Pavilion was strengthened with enhanced branding and extensive publicity of J&K’s unique, ODOP and GI-certified products, with promotional displays placed not only across the venue but also at prominent external locations, significantly amplifying the visibility and drawing an even larger and more diverse crowd throughout the fair. This heightened attention transformed the Pavilion into a vibrant hub of culture, creativity and commerce, consistently attracting the domestic and international visitors. The steady engagement facilitated meaningful business interactions for artisans, women entrepreneurs, startups, FPOs, SHGs and cooperative societies. The substantial sales turnover and sizeable pipeline of business leads generated are expected to convert into repeat orders, long-term buyer, seller relationships and expanded market access, ultimately contributing to income generation, employment creation, and inclusive economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir.
Senior officials lauded the coordinated efforts of participating departments, corporations and partner agencies in curating a vibrant and business-oriented showcase that effectively blended culture with commerce.
The Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organization (JKTPO) reaffirmed its commitment towards extending sustained handholding support to exhibitors for follow-up on leads, participation in future trade fairs and integration with broader export promotion and market linkage initiatives. This will further consolidate Jammu and Kashmir’s position as a reliable sourcing destination for high-quality products.
The strong sales and lead generation at the Jammu and Kashmir Pavilion have also validated the strategic approach of onboarding a diverse mix of exhibitors, including artisans, women-led enterprises, startup ventures, FPOs, SHGs and cooperative societies, who together presented a comprehensive basket of products to the buyers from across India and abroad. The encouraging response from the retail visitors, bulk buyers, e-commerce platforms and institutional purchasers is expected to translate into repeat orders, new market tie-ups and wider brand recall for Jammu and Kashmir’s authentic handicrafts, handlooms, agro and food products in the months ahead.
Looking ahead to IITF 2026, JKTPO plans to further scale up participation from Jammu and Kashmir by onboarding a larger and more diversified pool of exhibitors, deepening sectoral representation and introducing new product lines aligned with emerging market trends. Efforts will focus on enhanced buyer outreach, more structured B2B meetings, digital and e-commerce integration, and stronger branding of Jammu and Kashmir’s unique value propositions, ensuring that the Pavilion not only sustains but surpasses the current year’s performance while creating wider and more durable market opportunities for stakeholders from the Union Territory.

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 27: J&K Bank has announced that the Board-of-Directors, in a meeting held on 26th November 2025, has approved raising capital aggregating up to Rs 1250 Crore to strengthen the Bank’s balance sheet and support its future growth plans.
In a regulatory filing, the Bank said that the capital raise comprises Rs 750 Crore of Equity Share Capital through Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP) in one or more tranches and Rs 500 Crore through issuance of Non-Convertible, Redeemable, Unsecured, BASEL III-compliant Tier 2 bonds in the nature of debentures on a private placement basis, subject to applicable regulatory approvals.
Commenting on the Board’s decision, MD & CEO Amitava Chatterjee said, “The approval to raise fresh capital underscores the Board’s confidence in the Bank’s trajectory and strengthens our ability to pursue calibrated growth. The infusion will further enhance our capital adequacy, support business expansion across key sectors, enhance our ability to absorb risk thereby reinforcing our long-term commitment to improved asset quality, profitability, and shareholder value.”
He further added, “The leadership remains focused on building a strong, resilient and future-ready Bank by strengthening its ability to grow sustainably while meeting future business and regulatory requirements.”

Bring Pride to Bhaderwah’s Rich Craft Heritage

DODA, NOVEMBER 26: In a proud moment for the artisan community of District Doda, two talented women artisans from Bhaderwah— Ramna Devi and Aniza Mushtaq—have been honoured with prestigious UT Level Handicrafts Artisans Awards 2024–25.

Their achievements highlight the exceptional craftsmanship and cultural richness of the region.

Showcasing the traditional art of Kora Dabka, a unique and centuries-old craft indigenous to Bhaderwah, Ramna Devi bagged the 1st Prize, receiving a cash award of ₹50,000 along with a certificate of recognition. This marks a historic moment as Kora Dabka has been acknowledged for the first time at the UT level, bringing long-awaited recognition to this rare and intricate craft form.

Similarly, Aniza Mushtaq earned distinction by winning the 2nd Prize in Paper Machie Craft, receiving ₹30,000 and a certificate. Her creative excellence reflects the vibrant artistic talent nurtured in the Doda region, further strengthening the district’s reputation in the field of traditional handicrafts.

The Department of Handicrafts, Doda, extended heartfelt congratulations to both artisans, appreciating their dedication, skill and contribution to preserving the cultural legacy of Bhaderwah. Their achievements are expected to inspire many young artisans to pursue traditional crafts and uplift the local handicraft sector.