Category: BUSINESS

25 out of 50 carpet training centres covered in Phase 1 under CAPEX 2025-26

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 26: Complimenting the Union Ministry of Textiles’ efforts towards revival of carpet industry, the Handicrafts and Handlooms Department, Kashmir, has procured 25 Modified Modern Steel Looms for its Carpet Weaving Training Centres in Phase 1, under CAPEX 2025-26.
This comes as a top up to the 100 additional carpet looms for beneficiary weavers, sanctioned by the Ministry of Textiles for the current financial year, under its ‘Wool Processing Scheme’ of the Central Wool Development Board.
Sharing details in a press statement issued here today, a spokesman of the Department stated that 25 training centres out of 50 shall be provided the modified looms, facilitating better hands-on training to the youth. “In Phase 2, the remaining 25 training centres will also be provided with the modified looms, with funding released by the Government,” he added.
The spokesman further stated that the new steel looms have been designed with suitable back-rest, powered with comfortable seating arrangement and leg space for the trainees, factoring in health concerns. “These efforts shall go a long way in reviving the famed hand-knotted carpet industry, which has already secured GI registration, based on the source of origin and the unique Taleem feature imbibed in the carpet weaving craft,” he added.

NEW DELHI, NOVEMBER 25: The Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO), under the aegis of the Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, presented the region’s vibrant cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit at the 44th India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025 with the theme “EK BHARAT, SHRESHTHA BHARAT”.

Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Jitin Prasada, inaugurated the event.

The J&K Pavilion, located on the 1st Floor of Hall No. 3 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, from November 14 to 27. The Pavilion offers a dynamic platform for around 140 exhibitors, including women entrepreneurs, specially-abled business owners and cooperative societies, to showcase their diverse range of products. It highlights Jammu and Kashmir’s world-renowned Geographical Indication (GI)–tagged products such as Saffron, Pashmina Shawls, Kani Shawls, Sozni Embroidery, Basohli Paintings, Kashmiri Carpets and Paper Mâché crafts, each reflecting the region’s authenticity and artistic excellence.

A special celebration, ‘Jammu and Kashmir Day,’ was held on November 22, 2025, at Amphitheatre One, featuring the cultural performances dedicated to celebrate the culture, craft and heritage of J&K. The event strengthened J&K’s presence on the national stage while celebrating its artistic richness and entrepreneurial excellence.

JKTPO continues to uphold transparency and inclusivity in promoting the local enterprises. With participation of key organizations such as J&K Industries Limited and the State Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation, the Pavilion exemplifies the seamless harmony of tradition and innovation that defines Jammu and Kashmir.

Over the past three years, JKTPO has significantly expanded the participation of artisans, farmers and entrepreneurs in national exhibitions and trade fairs, including IITF. The number of exhibitors has grown remarkably from fewer than 30 participants a few years ago to over 140 in 2025.

During the previous edition, in 2024, approximately 110 exhibitors represented J&K at IITF. This consistent growth reflects rising enthusiasm among the J&K’s business community to present their products on prestigious national platforms.

The participants have not only gained extensive exposure but secured valuable business leads and confirmed orders, fostering long-term and sustainable trade relationships. On-the-spot sales have risen significantly, offering direct financial gains and enhancing exhibitors’ confidence. This strong buyer interest, coupled with the overwhelming footfall at the Jammu and Kashmir Pavilion, further underscored its growing national appeal.

The Pavilion remained consistently crowded with the visitors eager to experience the region’s rich craft heritage, authentic GI-tagged products and vibrant cultural presentations. The enthusiastic public response not only amplified sales and business opportunities but also reinforced the Pavilion’s standing as one of the most sought-after attractions at IITF 2025. This continued success reaffirms the Government’s commitment to empowering local talent and nurturing a sustainable ecosystem that champions heritage, innovation and enterprise.

Lauds Artisans as custodians of Heritage, pledges sector revival under CM Omar Abdullah’s leadershi

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 25:Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, today honoured 38 outstanding craftsmen and artisans with the UT-Level Artisan and Weaver Awards–2024 for their exemplary contribution to preserving and innovating Jammu and Kashmir’s celebrated handicraft traditions.

The awards conferred by Handicrafts and Handloom Department were presented at a grand ceremony held at SKICC, Srinagar.

The event was attended by Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Vikramjit Singh, Director Handicrafts and Handloom Department Kashmir, Mussarat ul Islam, senior government officials, dignitaries, and members of the artisan and business community.

Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister said the government is fully committed to transforming the Handicrafts and Handloom sector into a vibrant economic pillar.

He noted that these awards not only celebrate craftsmanship but also motivate artisans to push creative boundaries and continue their invaluable service to society.

“The Artisan Awards reinforce the profound cultural and economic significance of J&K’s craft traditions, which sustain livelihoods and shape our identity on the global stage,” he said.

Appreciating the department for its efforts, the Deputy Chief Minister added, “This event reflects our dedication to giving artisans the respect and recognition they truly deserve. They are our pride, the custodians of our heritage and traditions. Under the able leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister, Jenab Omar Abdullah Sahib, we will leave no stone unturned in addressing sectoral challenges and elevating this backbone of our economy to new heights.”

Of the 38 awardees, 20 belong to Kashmir Division and 18 to Jammu Division, selected through a rigorous evaluation across ten notified craft categories. Each category carried three awards, with winners receiving citations, certificates, and cash prizes of ₹50,000, ₹30,000, and ₹20,000, enabling them to further enhance their craft.

Delivering the inaugural address, Vikramjit Singh highlighted the department’s ongoing initiatives to strengthen the sector.

“The Industries and Commerce Department is extending comprehensive support for the upliftment of our artisan community. We are intensifying efforts to revive the sector, showcase the brilliance of our artisans, and connect them with global markets.”

A departmental spokesperson noted that the sector supports over 3.80 lakh artisans and weavers, contributing more than ₹1500 crore annually to J&K’s economy. He added that artisans from the UT have earned prestigious national honours such as the Padma Shri and Shilp Guru Awards, and have captivated global audiences from Paris to New York.

Recent interventions, including skill enhancement workshops, Know Your Artisan initiative, digital marketplaces, and GI tagging, have significantly strengthened market outreach, contributing to a ₹500 crore boost in exports through participation in multiple global trade fairs this year.

DC Directs Strict Enforcement to Protect Environment, Public Health & Agricultural Land

BUDGAM, NOVEMBER 24: Under the guidance of the Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, the District Administration Budgam has intensified its ongoing enforcement drive against illegal brick kilns operating without authorization or violating environmental and land-use regulations.

Today civil administration, supported by police authorities, dismantled three illegal brick kilns in village Mulshulla of Tehsil Beerwah. These units were found contributing substantially to air pollution, causing health hazards to the local population, and degrading productive agricultural land by rendering it barren.

The district administration has reiterated that such illegal activities will not be allowed to operate at the cost of public health, ecological safety, and agricultural sustainability.

The District Administration has urged all owners of illegal brick kilns to voluntarily dismantle their structures on their own, failing which strict legal and enforcement action will be taken against them.

The operation was supervised on ground by SDM Beerwah, Toufeeq Gazi, along with Tehsildar Beerwah, SDPO Magam, and other concerned civil and police officers of the sub-division, ensuring smooth execution and adherence to legal procedures.

Local residents appreciated action of the district administration and urged that such drives should continue in the interest of public health and environmental protection.

The District Administration Budgam has reaffirmed that firm, coordinated and sustained action will continue across all tehsils to curb unauthorized brick kiln operations and safeguard the district’s environmental and agricultural resources.

38 artisans to be honoured for keeping craft heritage alive

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 24: The Handicrafts and Handloom Department is all set to confer the annual UT Artisan Awards for the year 2024 amongst the selected craft-persons, who have kept the famed handicrafts legacy alive in Jammu & Kashmir.

Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Kumar Choudhary, who is also Minister In-Charge Industries & Commerce, shall distribute the coveted awards here at the picturesque SKICC on November 25, in presence of the Commissioner/ Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Vikramjit Singh.

In a press release issued here today, a spokesman of the Department stated that 38 artisans and weavers, 20 from Kashmir and 18 from Jammu Division respectively, shall be conferred with the prestigious UT Artisan Awards in different notified crafts, who have been selected by the Government. “All arrangements have been made at SKICC Auditorium for the gala function. The award for the artisans shall accompany a citation and cash prizes of ₹50,000, ₹30,000 & ₹20,000 for first three places in each craft,” he added.

Identifying welfare of artisans and weavers as the primary objective of the department, the spokesman asserted that the coveted annual Artisan Awards distribution is an effort of the Government to recognize the contribution of our artisan community who toil hard to keep the handicrafts heritage alive in Jammu & Kashmir. “Apart from UT Aryisan Awards, which are given out annually, our artisans have regularly brought laurels for J&K by winning the prestigious Padma and Shilp Guru Awards at the national level. “Even in the international arena, our artisans have distinguished themselves by capturing the eyes of the art connoisseurs,” he added.

The spokesman further stated that the selection of entries for UT Artisan Awards for the year 2025 is already in process.

BENGALURU, NOVEMBER 21: Startups supported by the Jammu & Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) participated in the prestigious Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2025, held in Bangalore from November 18 to 20, 2025.

This year’s edition was one of the largest ever, with organisers reporting participation from more than 10,000 startups representing 60 countries. The J&K startups began their showcase with a high-energy Day 1, marked by strong engagement with industry leaders, potential partners and sector experts.

The summit, featuring international exhibitors from Italy, Russia, Israel, Germany, Australia and Korea, offered unmatched exposure, learning and global networking opportunities for the participating entrepreneurs from J&K. The J&K pavilion attracted a huge crowd, drawing praise, curiosity and appreciation from the visitors and global participants.

Seven J&K startups supported by JKEDI participated in the 3-day long Tech Summit.

A key highlight was the visit of Ari Gargir, CEO and Founder of RED C Biotech, who interacted with the J&K startup founders and showed keen interest in their innovative solutions. Besides, interactions with the Industry Leaders was the spotlight of the event where Sheenmart E-Com, a JKEDI-sponsored startup, held promising discussions with AutoL Korea, a global leader in compact long-range LiDAR technology. The dialogue focused on exploring collaborative opportunities in advanced sensing and smart mobility solutions.

Entrepreneur Sheikh Yameen of Curv Electric (Heaventure Adventures Limited) engaged with Micheal Nenner, CEO of Charge, on technology integration aimed at improving the efficiency and performance of electric vehicles. SCANIMO Technologies, a promising startup from J&K established a technical connect with Jio Mart Retail Stores who evinced interest to integrate the former’s technology in their stores.

Throughout the summit, the startups from J&K attracted the visitors and potential partners, establishing meaningful connections and working to translate these engagements into tangible collaborations. Parallel meetings and networking sessions took place as the J&K delegation proactively explored opportunities for growth and strategic partnerships.

Officials from the Centre for Innovation, Incubation and Business Modelling (CIIBM) a program vertical of JKEDI including Faheem ul Din Malik, Associate Project Manager (APM), JKEDI and Sorab Mengi, Assistant Manager (F&A), JKEDI attended the summit, facilitating the interaction between startups and the industry leaders, under the overall supervision of the Secretary Industries and Commerce Department and Director, JKEDI, Khalid Jahangir. They also discussed the prospective knowledge sharing and collaborations with the counterparts like Startup Tamil Nadu in the future.

The startups, supported by Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) shared their experiences and key takeaways. They applauded the role of JKEDI for being the prospective enabler between the vast startup market place and the aspiring entrepreneurs of the UT of J&K.

The presence of JKEDI-supported startups at BTS 2025 reflects the growing innovation capability and entrepreneurial drive emerging from Jammu & Kashmir. The JKEDI remains committed towards empowering startups and helping them compete, collaborate and grow on national and global platforms.

Srinagar, November 20: Riding high on the resounding success of the first three ‘Know Your Artisan’ (KYA) events in October, which captivated crowds at iconic venues like Polo View Market, Jhelum Riverfront, and Ghanta Ghar with live demonstrations and direct artisan engagements; the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir (DOHHK) today unveiled the ‘Know Your Artisan’ Craft Carnival.

The 3-day extravaganza commenced at the picturesque Sher-e-Kashmir Park on Residency Road, under the aggressive branding campaign ‘Soulful Kashmir’.

The event was inaugurated by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, who lauded the department’s endeavors in spotlighting the Valley’s timeless crafts.

Speaking on the occasion, the Div Com highlighted the transformative potential of such exhibitions. He commended the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir for organizing this carnival.

He said Initiatives like ‘Know Your Artisan’ are essential to bring our master artisans to the forefront, providing them a deserving platform to showcase Kashmir’s rich craft and heritage to both locals and global audiences. “These programs not only revive our traditions but also empower our artisans economically, ensuring their skills endure for generations”, he added.

He stated that exports of Handicrafts & Handlooms has doubled since last four years which has increased the income of artisans.

This carnival arrives in the triumphant aftermath of Srinagar’s dual global accolades including its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art in 2021 and as the 63rd World Craft City under the World Crafts Council (WCC) network in 2024.

These honors underscore the city’s unparalleled heritage in handicrafts from intricate Pashmina weaving and hand-knotted carpets to papier-mache and walnut wood carvings, positioning Srinagar as a beacon for cultural preservation and innovation on the world stage.

The event witnessed a huge gathering of top-level officers, alongside key Department officials, all witnessing the unveiling of 36 meticulously curated stalls. These feature an exhaustive array of GI-registered crafts, such as authentic Pashmina, Kani shawls, and Kashmiri carpets, alongside products notified under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme and the District Export Hub (DEH) initiative.

Complementing the displays are immersive live demonstration sections, where artisans unveil the labor-intensive secrets of their trades, and interactive ‘Try Your Hand’ zones inviting the public to engage hands-on with techniques like chain-stitch embroidery, Pashmina weaving and walnut wood carving.

Enthusiastic visitors, locals, tourists, families, and craft enthusiasts, flocked to the venue, infusing the autumnal canopy of Chinar trees with palpable energy.

The carnival aligns with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s visionary initiatives of Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, fostering self-reliance by promoting indigenous crafts as engines of economic growth, sustainable tourism, and global exports.

By bridging artisans directly with consumers through fair-priced stalls, it champions ‘Vocal for Local,’ creating viable market linkages and countering counterfeit threats while celebrating the human stories behind each creation.

Mussarat Islam, Director of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir on the occasion said, “This carnival is a pivotal chapter in our aggressive push to revive and commercialize Kashmir’s handicrafts, empowering over 3.80 lakh artisans through GI enforcement, skill training, and branding workshops. In the wake of Srinagar’s UNESCO and WCC recognitions, we are not just showcasing crafts but weaving a narrative of harmony, innovation, and cultural co-existence that resonates with the ‘Vocal for Local’ spirit.”

The Department urged the public to visit the venue over the next two days, immerse in the artistry, and make purchases that directly uplift our artisans.

As the event unfolds, it promises a soul-stirring display of diverse crafts, traditional Kashmiri folk music, storytelling sessions sharing generational lore, and workshops blending heritage with contemporary design.

CM underscores entrepreneurship as the driving force of J&K’s future growth

KULGAM, NOVEMBER 19: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated a two-day J&K Business & Trade Fair organised by the District Administration Kulgam in collaboration with Mission YUVA.

The fair aims to promote entrepreneurship and provide a platform for business innovation and growth for businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs.

After formally inaugurating the event, the Chief Minister inspected various stalls established by entrepreneurs and business establishments. He interacted with the participants and lauded their contribution towards promoting business enterprises and generating livelihood opportunities in the district.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that while the government is working to create jobs, it is not possible to provide government employment to everyone. Therefore, it is essential to create self-employment avenues, and schemes like Mission YUVA have been devised to fulfil this objective. He emphasised that banks must ensure smooth disbursement of cases under various entrepreneurship schemes and assured budding entrepreneurs of all possible support from the government. He added that the aim of Mission Youth is to empower young people to explore innovative ideas, build sustainable businesses, contribute to the region’s economic progress, and evolve into job creators.

The Chief Minister noted that trade fairs play a crucial role in strengthening the economy by offering emerging entrepreneurs opportunities to showcase their talent, connect with wider markets, and expand their business networks.

During the event, the Chief Minister visited entrepreneur stalls, business units, and departmental exhibits and interacted with the participants. He also distributed sanction letters to beneficiaries under Mission YUVA scheme.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Education, Health & Medical Education and Social Welfare, Sakeena Itoo, said that youth are actively participating in entrepreneurship schemes. She informed that many beneficiaries have already been identified and numerous cases approved. She stressed the need for smooth processing of cases to maximise the benefits and urged youth to avail themselves of these opportunities.

MLA Kulgam, M.Y. Tarigami, encouraged young people to seize every opportunity to build prosperous and progressive lives.

The programme was attended by Minister for Education, Sakeena Itoo; DDC Chairperson Kulgam, Mohammad Afzal Parrey; MLA Kulgam, M.Y. Tarigami; MLA Devsar, Peerzada Feroz Ahmad; Secretary Labour and Employment, Kumar Rajiv Ranjan; Secretary in Information Department, Muneer Ul Islam; DDC Kulgam, Athar Aamir Khan; Mission Director, Mission YUVA, Shadab Aalam; other senior officers; representatives of business organisations; entrepreneurs; and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Capacity-building completion certificates were distributed, Mission YUVA sanction letters were handed over to beneficiaries, and MoUs were exchanged between Mission YUVA and ONDC.

Earlier, Deputy Commissioner Kulgam Athar Aamir Khan presented the welcome address and highlighted the aim of organising the two-day fair. Mission Director Shahzad Aalam presented the vote of thanks and highlighted achievements under Mission YUVA.

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 18: The Innovation and Incubation centre of the Islamia college of Science and Commerce Srinagar in collaboration with the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) PPDC, Extension centre Srinagar organised a one day seminar on ‘Tech Innovative intervention in Kashmir Handicrafts’ in the college today.

The seminar was attended by HOD Arts IASE, Srinagar, Arshad Sauleh, and renowned artist of Kashmir; Ajaz Hussian , Faculty Robotics and Automation Ministry of MSME PPDC Srinagar, Faculty NIFT Srinagar, Designer and Founder of Studio Kilab, artisans of paper mache of shah-er- Khas , faculty and students of the college, and the staff of Design Innovation Centre (DIC), Central University of Kashmir.

The seminar’s focus was to educate artisans on integrating technology in Paper Mache, anticipating and overcoming challenges by exploring innovative designs for newer product possibilities.

Principal of the college, Prof. (Dr.) Tehmina Yousuf, lauded the seminar for its educative and transforming role for artisans of Kashmir Handicrafts. In her address, she reiterated the commitment of the college to support the Handicraft artisans of the Kashmir in general and that of shah-er- Khas in particular for value addition of their products to remain market relevant and sensitized the students for future endeavour in handicrafts with integration of technology.

Convenor IIC of the college briefed the audience of the activities and programs that the college has been holding since the inception of the IIC in the college for promotion of the culture of entrepreneurship, innovation and start-ups among the student community. He presented a thorough introduction about the Paper Mache craft in the Kashmir valley.

During the programme, the participants were apprised about already existing technology like 5 axis CNC machine and Wire EDM machine that are used to make Paper Mache moulds and designs.

Meanwhile, an interactive session was held which witnessed a threadbare discussion about the existing technology for Paper Mache and its pros and cons. The artisans identified the problems they faced while using existing technology. In the light of discussions held, the experts pointed out ways that should be incorporated in the existing technology for its optimisation and result orientation.

The interaction session joined by Ajaz Hussain, Dr. Yasir Ahmad Mir, and Burhan-u-din Khateeb. The famous artisan among participants included Syed Sajad Hamdani, Ali Mohammed Banka, Shabir Ahmad Mir, Fayaz Ahmad Sofi, Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat, Manzoor Ahmad Bhat and Abdul Majeed Dar.

The entire seminar proceedings were conducted by Tanzeel, English literature 5th Semester student. The seminar ended by presentation of Vote of Thanks by Dr. Zahoor Ahmad Jhat, Convenor IIC.

SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 17: A student led start up “M/s FaimFarms P Ltd” mentored under the SKUAST K Innovation, Incubation & Entrepreneurship (SKIIE) Centre Shalimar Srinagar has been awarded a Rs 5 lakh grant in aid by ICAR Pusa, New Delhi, in recognition of its promising and disruptive innovation in the Agriculture sector.

The grant, sanctioned under ICAR’s support for youth led agricultural innovations, will be used to advance the start up’s ongoing work on a Ready to Eat/Serve centric innovation developed at SKUAST K Innovation Centre in support with Division of Food Sciences & Technology.

The Funding will support prototype refinement, field validation, and early stage commercialization activities, enabling the team to translate research into practice and benefit farmers and other stakeholders in the region.

Vice Chancellor SKUAST K, Prof Nazir A Ganai Congratulated the Young Student led Startup Founders of M/s FaimFarms P Ltd setting their goals and achieving the feat and for taking the mission and vision of SKUAST K forward. He also congratulated the Director and Team SKIIE Centre and all mentors across faculties and different labs of University.

Chief Executive Officer/Head, SKIIE Centre, said that the success of the student start up reflects SKUAST K’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among our students and researchers.