Discussions focus on marketing, skill dev, infrastructure utilisation
SRINAGAR: A P Vicky Shaw, Chairman of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) for Kashmir, held a significant interactive meeting with Neelam Shami Rao, IAS, Secretary of Textiles, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, today at Srinagar.
The meeting focused on addressing key challenges and exploring growth opportunities for the vital textile and handicraft sectors of Jammu & Kashmir. Shaw presented a detailed set of recommendations aimed at revitalizing these traditional industries and enhancing the welfare of the artisans, the Chamber said in a statement issued here.
During the discussions, the PHDCCI Chairman raised pressing issues plaguing the Union Territory’s textile, wool, silk, and handloom sectors. He specifically highlighted the need for strategic interventions and submitted several proposals for the Ministry’s consideration:
Marketing Assistance for J&K: Shaw proposed that national reputed organizations with an established presence in J&K be made eligible partners for implementing marketing assistance schemes. This would significantly amplify the reach and impact of marketing initiatives for local products.
Skill Development & Modernization: The chamber strongly advocated for the introduction of the SMARTH scheme for skill development in the region and the reintroduction of the Power Tex scheme to develop and encourage a modern power loom sector in J&K, boosting productivity and competitiveness.
Optimal Use of Infrastructure: The discussion covered the under-utilization of idle space at the Common Facility Centre (CFC) within the Integrated Handicraft Silk Park in Zakura, Srinagar. The chamber suggested plans for its optimal use to benefit local artisans and enterprises.
Welfare of Artisans: The meeting also deliberated on measures for the overall welfare and economic upliftment of the artisan community, who are the backbone of the handicraft sector.
National-Level Expo in Delhi: A major proposal put forth by PHDCCI was to organize a grand national-level textile expo, fashion show, and buyer-seller meet specifically for products from J&K and Ladakh under a market support initiative in New Delhi. This event would provide a premier platform for artisans and weavers to showcase their craftsmanship to a national and international audience.
Neelam Shami Rao gave a patient hearing to all the issues and suggestions presented. She assured the delegation of the Ministry’s full support, stating, “Kashmir is always close to our heart.” She emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to providing all necessary assistance and technical support for both marketing and infrastructure development to ensure the sustainable growth of these sectors in the region.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides agreeing to collaborate closely on the proposed initiatives.