Srinagar, November 24,2025: The Handicrafts and Handloom Department of Jammu & Kashmir is set to confer the UT Artisan Awards 2024 on 38 outstanding craft-persons who have preserved and promoted the region’s rich artistic legacy. The annual awards highlight the UT’s commitment to recognising the cultural guardians who keep J&K’s age-old handicrafts and handloom traditions flourishing.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, who also serves as the Minister In-Charge Industries & Commerce, will present the prestigious awards at a grand ceremony scheduled for November 25 at SKICC, with Commissioner/Secretary Industries & Commerce Vikramjit Singh in attendance.
According to a statement issued by the department, 20 artisans from Kashmir and 18 from Jammu Division have been selected across various notified crafts. Each award will include a citation and cash prizes of ₹50,000, ₹30,000, and ₹20,000 for the top three positions in each craft category.
Reaffirming the department’s dedication to artisan welfare, the spokesman highlighted that the UT Artisan Awards represent the government’s deep appreciation for the creative brilliance and hard work of artisans and weavers. He noted that J&K’s artisan community has consistently brought honour to the UT, winning national recognitions such as the Padma Awards and the Shilp Guru Awards, and earning global acclaim from art connoisseurs worldwide.
The department also announced that the selection process for the 2025 UT Artisan Awards is already underway, ensuring continuity in nurturing and celebrating the region’s craft heritage.
