Greater Shah-re-Khaas Leadership Calls on Lieutenant Governor for Revival and Protection of Kashmir Handicrafts

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

SRINAGAR DECM, 16:-Mohammad Faheem Reshi, Chairman of Greater Shah-re-Khaas Leadership, has formally appealed to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha Ji, urging personal intervention and a comprehensive review of the traditional Kashmir handicraft sector in Shah-re-Khaas.

Reshi highlighted the urgent need to protect and revitalize the region’s timeless crafts, including Pashmina, Wood Carving, Khatamband, Copperware, Papier-mâché, Ari Work, Sozni, and Tilla embroidery. These crafts form the livelihood backbone for thousands of artisans residing in downtown Srinagar and are critical to preserving Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage.

He demanded the establishment of a dedicated handicraft market in Shah-re-Khaas along with the organization of regular exhibitions in the business hub. Such initiatives would provide local artisans with direct market access, enhancing their economic opportunities and visibility.

Furthermore, Mohammad Faheem Reshi called on traders’ bodies to unite on a common platform in support of banning machine-made products in Jammu & Kashmir. He stressed that promoting only handmade products is essential to safeguard the future of impoverished and marginalized artisans who rely on traditional craftsmanship for their sustenance.

Reshi urged collective action from traders, civil society organizations, and the administration to preserve Kashmir’s artisanal legacy and ensure sustainable livelihoods for its traditional craftsmen.