Key Points

Speaking to mediapersons here on Wednesday, Choudhury said, "The handloom and handicraft sector is the identity of Kashmir that must be revived and promoted... I've instructed my officers to bring a detailed project proposal to me, which we will escalate to the Chief Minister.

"This isn't just about a product--it's about heritage, dignity, and livelihoods... We used to see these crafts proudly displayed in government buildings, circuit houses, and ministerial homes. Today, much of it has faded. Craftsmen invest over a year to make a single Pashmina shawl, yet their returns are dismal. We must ensure their work is recognised, respected, and fairly rewarded," the Deputy Chief Minister added.

He further emphasised the promotion of handicraft through media. "I appeal to everyone, including social media creators, to amplify this message. Share these stories with the country and the world," he said

He also said that tourism is key to this revival.

On Wednesday, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that no amount of development in the region is enough, given Pakistan's constant attempts to destabilise the situation. Abdullah made these remarks while responding during a visit to Aligarh Muslim University's Ahmadi School.

The Chief Minister also emphasised that not only are efforts important, but succeeding is also very important to achieve the highest degree of progress and development in Jammu and Kashmir.

"The way our neighbouring country is trying to spoil the atmosphere, we have to ensure that maximum development and progress take place in Jammu and Kashmir," Abdullah told reporters.

The J-K chief minister said that the construction of the Chenab Bridge, the world's highest railway bridge, is a good thing and that the focus should be on continuing to build such infrastructure. Abdullah said, "It is a good thing that at present there is the world's tallest railway bridge; our endeavour should be to keep it the same."

The bridge on the River Chenab, being the highest bridge in the world, is a milestone project for the Indian Railways, which was completed after several ups and downs in a difficult terrain. It connects Kashmir to Jammu and the entire country via rail. The architectural marvel Chenab Rail Bridge, situated 359 metres above the river, is the world's highest railway arch bridge. It is a 1,315-metre-long steel arch bridge engineered to withstand seismic and wind conditions.

Regarding the reservation bill in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah stated that since the assembly is not in session, no bill can currently be presented. The Cabinet Sub-Committee has prepared its report, which will be presented to the Cabinet in a few days. "There is no session of our assembly, so no bill will be presented. The cabinet subcommittee has prepared its report; that report has to be presented in the cabinet. The cabinet meeting is held twice a month. This month it has not happened yet. There will be a cabinet meeting in a few days; the recommendations of the cabinet subcommittee on reservation will be put before the cabinet, and after that it will be considered," CM added.

- ANI