SRINAGAR, July 24, 2025 : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has taken strong exception to the sale of counterfeit machine-made carpets being falsely marketed as authentic Kashmiri hand-knotted products. Directing the Industries & Commerce Department to take stringent action, the CM warned that such malpractice threatens the global reputation of Kashmiri carpets and undermines the livelihood of artisan families.
The issue was flagged during a meeting with delegations from the Carpet Export Promotion Council, Indian Silk Export Promotion Council, Meeras Carpet Weavers Cooperative, Kashmir Carpet Cluster Development Organization, and the Kashmir Carpet Manufacturers Association. They urged a complete ban on machine-made carpets in handicrafts-registered showrooms, strict enforcement mechanisms, and immediate action against the misuse of fake GI tags.
The delegations highlighted the urgent need to preserve the heritage craft of hand-knotted carpets, which remains a vital symbol of Kashmir’s identity and a primary source of income for thousands of families.
Other Delegations and Issues Discussed:
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Manigam, Ganderbal Delegation: Requested safeguarding of land for future institutional use.
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HR Agency Representatives: Raised the issue of pending emoluments with the J&K Housing Board.
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Dental Surgeons: Demanded creation and filling of vacant posts.
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MLAs from Sopore and Trehgam: Discussed constituency-specific development concerns.
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Private Schools’ Association: Sought the creation of a State School Standards Authority (SSSA), faster issuance of NOCs, clarification on lease deed requirements, and more working days in the academic calendar. They also requested representation in government education committees.
On the matter of delays in granting NOCs and service delivery, the Chief Minister assured that during a recent Public Services Guarantee Act (PSGA) review, all Administrative Secretaries were directed to hold monthly reviews and ensure strict enforcement of service timelines.
He reiterated that PSGA aims to end arbitrary delays and ensure prompt public service delivery in areas such as issuance of certificates, utility connections, licenses, and access to revenue records. Departments have been instructed to adhere strictly to timelines and penalize defaulting officers.
