Srinagar, June 11: A delegation of members of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry belonging to the Handicrafts Sector led by Javed Ahmad Tenga held an interaction with Mehmood Ahmad Shah, Director Handlooms and Handicrafts Department.
According to a statement issued here, Tenga expressed his deep concern over the ‘deteriorating condition of the handicrafts sector.’ He said, “our Handicrafts Sector stood devastated because of the diminished demand, fall in prices, piling up of inventories, accumulation of debts and the uncertain situation ahead.”
“Tenga stated that presently, it is estimated that a handicrafts related goods inventory of more than 600 crores has stockpiled in the private sector. This has created a peculiar situation that demanded sustained efforts for liquidation. KCCI has been advocating the adoption of Brand Kashmir by the Central Government, State Government and other PSU’s and it was also suggested that the Government Arts Emporium and other bodies like the HHEC and Central Cottage Emporium be approached for promotion and sale of Brand Kashmir,” the statement reads.
“Shah welcomed the suggestions put forth by the participants and in this regard stated that the Handicrafts and Handloom Department was itself putting in a lot of effort to alleviate the sufferings of the artisans and weavers and also for the promotion of Brand Kashmir line of handicrafts,” it said.