Srinagar, October 25, 2025: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today felicitated Jammu and Kashmir’s master craftspersons and artisans at the Pashmina Artisan Awards Ceremony organised by the Pashmeena Entrepreneurs Makers & Artisans Foundation in Srinagar.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor called upon citizens across the nation to support the artisans of Jammu and Kashmir by purchasing their handmade products. “Buy local and empower our great artisans. Every household should have at least one creative product made by our craftsmen. I am confident that the nation’s growing middle class, which could make up over half the population by 2030, will create a strong domestic market for J&K’s handmade products,” he said.
Highlighting Jammu and Kashmir’s centuries-old legacy of craftsmanship, LG Sinha said that the Union Territory is a repository of rich creative traditions, reflected through its unique and ingenious handmade products. He noted that various initiatives since 2020 have significantly boosted J&K’s handicraft exports and positioned the region as a distinct player in the global crafts market.
“Let us honour and celebrate the products made by the gifted hands. These hands are not just weaving a product — they are weaving magic through every thread, every intricate design, and subtle shade,” the LG said while appreciating the artistry and skill of J&K’s craftspeople.
The Lieutenant Governor outlined the government’s efforts to strengthen the handicraft and handloom sectors, mentioning that under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, several new schemes, policies, and infrastructure projects have been introduced to provide comprehensive support to artisans and revive the UT’s cultural and artistic heritage.
He also directed all stakeholder departments to ensure artisans directly benefit from new GST reforms, and stressed on enhancing the visibility of J&K’s art and craft at major airports, shopping malls, and e-commerce platforms in India and abroad. “We must promote cities and villages renowned for their artisans on the global craft map, so that these skilled individuals receive the recognition and respect they truly deserve,” LG Sinha added.
The Pashmina Artisan Awards recognised excellence across multiple categories of traditional crafts, with a special focus on the Pashmina sector, one of the most celebrated symbols of Kashmir’s heritage.
The event was attended by Shri Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce Department; Dr. Hina Shafi Bhat, former Chairperson KVIB; Shri Mussarat Zia, Director, Handicrafts & Handloom Kashmir; Shri Tariq Dar, President, PEMA Foundation; along with senior officials, members of trade associations, and a large number of artisans and craftspeople.
