"Government will support artisans, weavers to preserve, promote handloom heritage": J-K Deputy Chief Minister
Jammu, August 8
Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary assured artisans and weavers of government support to preserve the region's handloom heritage and improve their livelihoods.
Choudhary participated in the 12th National Handloom Day event held in Jammu, where he visited stalls displaying various handloom and handicraft products, including Pashmina shawls, Basohli paintings, toys and jackets.
Describing the occasion as historic, the Deputy Chief Minister said artisans and weavers had preserved the legacy of their ancestors and that the government would work to carry it forward.
"This is a historic occasion. They have cherished and preserved the legacy of their elders. We have come to assure them that our government stands with them. This legacy must be carried forward," Choudhary said.
He said the products showcased at the event reflected the skills of people from villages and rural areas who had kept traditional art alive through their work.
Choudhary added that the artisans and weavers make their products with hard work and bring them to markets for sale, and exhibitions provide them with opportunities to showcase their products, receive appreciation and boost their morale.
Referring to the legacy associated with Mahatma Gandhi and his emphasis on India's villages, Choudhary said the artisans from rural areas continue to preserve the heritage passed down by their ancestors.
He said the Omar Abdullah government wants not only to preserve the heritage but also to take it forward and improve the livelihoods of artisans and weavers.
"And to give these people the assurance that the Omar Abdullah government is with you. Wherever you feel the need, the Omar Abdullah government will always cooperate and help to encourage these artisans and weavers," he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister said the government's support aimed at encouraging artisans and weavers while ensuring that the traditional heritage they had preserved continues to be carried forward.
National Handloom Day is observed every year on August 7 to recognise the contribution of India's handloom sector to the country's economy and cultural identity. The day also honours the hard work of millions of weavers and artisans who preserve traditional weaving techniques passed down through generations.
The observance was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015 to commemorate the Swadeshi Movement launched on August 7, 1905, during India's freedom struggle. The movement encouraged the use of indigenous products and promoted self-reliance by discouraging dependence on imported goods.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The mention of Mahatma Gandhi and the Swadeshi Movement is important. With cheap machine-made imports flooding the market, our traditional handlooms are struggling. It's heartening to see the J&K government recognizing this. But words need to translate into action — we need skill development programs for the younger generation too, else this heritage will die out.
Good initiative, but we've heard such assurances many times before. The real test will be whether these artisans actually receive financial aid and access to modern technology without bureaucratic hurdles. Also, we need to protect our GI-tagged products like Pashmina from being undercut by cheaper imitations from elsewhere. The government should enforce strict quality certifications.
As someone who buys handloom products regularly, I can say the craftsmanship is unmatched. These artisans put their heart and soul into every piece. Maybe the government can help by organizing more such exhibitions and creating an online marketplace where weavers can sell directly to consumers across India. That would be a true game-changer! 🧵
Respect to all the weavers and artisans of J&K who are keeping our timeless traditions alive! This should have been done long back. I remember buying a beautiful Kashmiri carpet and the weaver told me it took 6 months of daily work. Such dedication deserves more recognition and support from every level of government. Let's hope this isn't just political posturing before elections.
The entire country needs to appreciate the work of these weavers. During the freedom struggle, khadi and handloom was a symbol of our self-reliance — and that spirit
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.