Srinagar, June 23: In a bid to promote handicrafts and boost the business prospects of artisans of old City, the Shaher-e-Khaas, a high level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Madhav Lal, on “Cluster Development initiative” Saturday discussed the comprehensive action plan and measures put in place for development of Nawa Kadal to Cement Kadal artisan cluster stretch.
 “A comprehensive survey was conducted to identify various clusters for development for uplifting handicrafts sector by providing artisans associated with this trade all facilities and access to showcase and sell their products to the clients directly and assist them to market their craft,” an official; handout said.
 “As part of the initiative and to reap the benefits of riverside transport and access the government has decided to develop 5 Ghats along the right bank of Jhelum at identified spots, with directions from the Chief Secretary for their earliest completion. The Ghats will be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 81 Lakhs,” the handout said.
 Madhav Lal gave directions for complete profiling of the artisan families associated with various crafts and issuance of photo identity and artisan credit cards to all the artisans as part of the development initiative.
 The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary Planning and Development BB Vyas, Principal Secretary Housing and Urban Development Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary PDD Sudanshu Panday, Commissioner Secretary Tourism and Culture, Commissioner Secretary Industries and Commerce, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Commissioner Secretary R&B, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Municipal Commissioner Srinagar, Director Handicrafts, Chief Engineers of I&FC,UEED, Sewerage and Drainage Srinagar, representatives of NBCC,IL&FS, INTACH and other senior officers.

Lastupdate on : Sat, 23 Jun 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Sat, 23 Jun 2012 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sun, 24 Jun 2012 00:00:00 IST