Kashmir, January 22,2026-Kashmir’s traditional Namda craft, a centuries-old felt-making art, has received a significant boost with the award of a government contract for card cloth, providing renewed hope for artisans and craft clusters across the Valley.
Officials said the contract will ensure steady demand for locally produced Namda, which is used as an essential component in the manufacture of card cloth. The move is expected to revive production units, improve income security for artisans, and strengthen the fragile craft economy that has faced years of decline due to mechanisation, lack of markets, and dwindling patronage.
Livelihood Support for Artisans
The awarding of the contract is being seen as a direct livelihood intervention, benefiting hundreds of Namda craftsmen, particularly in areas like Srinagar, Budgam, and Ganderbal, where the craft has traditionally flourished. Artisans will now have access to assured procurement, reducing dependence on middlemen and irregular private orders.
Preserving Heritage Through Market Linkages
Namda, made from sheep wool through a unique felting process without weaving, is not only a utilitarian product but also a cultural symbol of Kashmir’s artisanal heritage. Experts believe that institutional demand through such contracts can play a crucial role in preserving endangered crafts by linking heritage skills with modern supply chains.
Government Push for Handicrafts
The development aligns with the broader government focus on reviving Jammu and Kashmir’s handicraft sector, promoting traditional skills, and creating sustainable employment. Handicrafts officials said efforts are underway to further support Namda artisans through skill upgradation, quality certification, and market expansion, both within India and abroad.
A Step Towards Sustainable Revival
Craft stakeholders have welcomed the decision, calling it a much-needed step toward restoring confidence among artisans and encouraging younger generations to remain engaged in traditional crafts.
With assured orders and institutional backing, the latest contract is expected to breathe new life into Kashmir’s Namda craft, blending heritage preservation with economic empowerment.
