A delegation of Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) led by its President, Sheikh Ashiq Ahmad today met Director Handicrafts & Handloom, Mahmood Ahmad Shah.
The meeting was held to discuss the impetus that the Government is trying to provide to the artisan fraternity in the present COVID atmosphere which has severely hit the Handicrafts Industry of Kashmir.
The Director informed the KCCI delegation about the proposals that have been already forwarded to the Government to provide much needed succour to the artisan fraternity in the present depressing times.
The visiting delegation flagged some urgent issues with regard to the dwindling wages and the downward trend in the export of the Handicrafts items particularly carpets from Kashmir.
The Director informed the delegation about the measures that have been taken for revival of the carpet industry where some mega clusters have been proposed for the craft concentrated areas practicing the carpet weaving art.
The visiting delegation urged the Director to make all efforts for incorporating the artisans in the COVID relief package besides helping the concerned groups in Design Innovation, issues relating to freight subsidy, establishing of common facility centres and formation of Self-help groups.
The delegation also highlighted the issues and problems faced by the weaker sections connected with handicrafts and Handlooms that require urgent assistance and attention.
The delegation urged the Director Handicrafts & Handloom Kashmir to use his resources to get the separate DGFT code for Kashmir Carpets and Shawls.