Srinagar, October 24, 2025 : Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today felicitated Jammu and Kashmir’s craftspersons at the Pashmina Artisan Awards Ceremony, organised by the Pashmeena Entrepreneurs Makers & Artisans (PEMA) Foundation in Srinagar.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor urged people across the nation to “buy local and empower our great artisans.”
“Every household in the country must own a creative product made by J&K’s master artisans. India’s growing middle class, which could form over half the population by 2030, will create a strong domestic market for our handmade treasures,” said the Lieutenant Governor.
Celebrating the Legacy of Craftsmanship
LG Sinha praised the exceptional skills and creativity of Jammu and Kashmir’s artisans, describing the Union Territory as a repository of rich artistic traditions reflected in its world-renowned handicrafts.
He noted that policy reforms and government initiatives since 2020 have revitalized the handicraft sector, enhanced exports, and positioned Jammu and Kashmir as a unique player in the global crafts market.
“Let us celebrate the gifted hands that weave magic through every thread, every intricate design, and every subtle shade,” he said.
Empowering Artisans Through Policy and Market Access
The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the comprehensive measures undertaken under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to support artisans through new schemes, infrastructure, and export promotion.
He called upon departments to ensure that artisans directly benefit from GST reforms and emphasized the need to enhance visibility of J&K’s art at major airports, malls, and e-commerce platforms in India and abroad.
“We must promote our craft villages and cities on the global map so that artisans who have preserved these traditions for generations receive the recognition they truly deserve,” LG Sinha asserted.
Honouring the Masters of Pashmina
The Pashmina Artisan Awards recognized outstanding achievements in traditional crafts, particularly in the Pashmina sector, which symbolizes the heritage and finesse of Kashmiri artistry.
Among those present were Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce Department; Dr. Hina Shafi Bhat, former Chairperson, KVIB; Mussarat Zia, Director, Handicrafts & Handloom Kashmir; Tariq Dar, President, PEMA Foundation; senior officials, business representatives, artisans, and craftspeople.
