Srinagar, July 14: Prof Saifuddin Soz, MP and President, J&K Pradesh Congress Committee, today said that government of India would help construct a building for “permanent exhibition” of handicrafts in the Valley.
 Addressing a convention of artisans of Srinagar at Jogi Lanker, here today, Soz said the government of India would help the state in building a permanent exhibition facility for handicrafts in the Valley.
 Soz was accompanied by Raman Bhalla, Revenue Minister, J&K. Soz requested Bhalla to identify the land for the purpose.
 Soz said he had facilitated a meeting of a delegation of artisans led by him with Prime Minister last year.
 Those who addressed the gathering included Shameema Raina, Vice President J&K Mahila Congress, Abdul Gani Khan, District President Srinagar, Youth Congress Leaders Nissar Ahmad Khan and Fayaz Mir.
 Ghulam Rasool Khan a shawl weaver, who recently bagged Shilp Guru award explained the problems of the artisans at the convention.
 The difficulties of wood workers were also discussed. The artisans said that despite Kashmir handicrafts generating Rs 2000 crore export income, “we are living a life of penury.”
 The convention passed a resolution demanding that government of J&K should allot land for setting up permanent exhibition for handicrafts at a proper place in Srinagar with a common facility centre.
 Bhalla assured Soz that he would examine the demands of the artisans.

Lastupdate on : Sat, 14 Jul 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Sat, 14 Jul 2012 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sun, 15 Jul 2012 00:00:00 IST