Pre and post-handicraft sector in J&K
LG’s Contribution to Industry Growth
Farheen Wani
farheenwani47@gmail. Com
Jammu and Kashmir is famous throughout the world for its scenic beauty, bracing climate, and craftsmanship skills. It was during the reign of Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin, popularly known as Budshash or the great king who ruled Kashmir from 1420-70 AD that handicrafts were introduced in Kashmir. The kingZain-ul-Abidin hired skilled craftsmen from Central Asia to train local inhabitants in a number of handicrafts which were till then altogether unknown to the people of the state. Since then craft legacies continued and got encouragement and patronage from different rulers, princes, and visitors to the valley, thus skills passing on from generation to generation. Jammu & Kashmir has a comparative advantage in producing high quality and world-famous fabrics of Pashmina and Kani shawls, silken, woolen, and cotton fabrics and crafts like paper-mache, woodwork, Tila work, Sozni, Crewel, etc. These products are famous the world over because of their unique craftsmanship. Handicrafts in Jammu and Kashmir present a fascinating spectrum of creative imagination and design that is intimately woven into the life patterns of its people. The agility of local artisans coupled with their artistic imagination reflected through a wide range of products has delighted people the world over for centuries. The J&K Handicrafts Department plays a vital role in promoting handicrafts products in rural as well as urban areas by providing financial and technical assistance to unemployed youth and artisans of the state for setting up micro and small units in industrial sectors under various schemes.
The handicraft sector occupies an important position in the economic structure of J&K state. Being eco-friendly, this sector suits the state as it is more labour-intensive and less capital-intensive in nature, therefore, having scope for employment generation at a large scale. J&K handicraft products are worldwide famous for their attractive designs, functional utility, and high-quality craftsmanship. In the absence of large-scale industries in the UT, handicrafts remained a key economic activity from times immemorial. Crafts like shawls, crewels, namdha, chain stitch, wood carving, costume jewelry, kani shawls, paper machines, and carpets hold a significant share in the overall production and export of the state. Silken carpets in particular constitute a specialty having no parallel in quality and design at the national level and therefore, it occupies an important position in the international market.
Handicrafts refer to remarkable, skill-based creations that are made primarily by hand, reflecting the artistic traditions, cultural heritage, and craftsmanship of a particular region or community. These creations can include textiles, pottery, jewelry, woodwork, metalwork, and various other art forms.
The reasons why the handicraft industry faced challenges leading up to the G20:
Industrialization and mass production: With the rise of industrialization, the economy shifted towards mass production, which affected the demand for handicrafts. Factories and machines were capable of producing goods on a larger scale, often leading to lower costs and increased convenience for consumers. This shift, in turn, affected the market for handmade crafts.
Globalization and changing consumer preferences: The advent of globalization led to increased exposure to different cultures and products from around the world. As a result, consumer preferences started to favor mass-produced, machine-made items, rather than unique handicrafts. The shift in consumer behaviour played a significant role in the decline of the handicraft industry.
Lack of infrastructure and resources: Many artisans and craftsmen lacked access to modern infrastructure, including reliable supply chains, efficient transportation, and proper marketing channels. Without these essential resources, it became challenging for handicraft producers to compete in a rapidly changing marketplace.
Economic challenges and poverty: Handicrafts are often produced in developing countries or regions with economic challenges. As poverty rates increased, people prioritized basic needs over purchasing luxury or non-essential items such as handicrafts. This resulted in decreased demand and sales for artisans.
Inadequate financial support and limited access to credit: Artisans, especially in less developed areas, often faced difficulties in accessing financial support or credit to expand their businesses or invest in equipment and materials. The lack of funds hindered their ability to improve the quality of their crafts or reach out to broader markets.
Limited exposure and marketing opportunities: Artisans and craftsmen often struggled to reach potential buyers due to limited exposure and marketing opportunities. Without proper platforms, it became challenging to showcase their unique products to a larger audience, further contributing to the decline of the industry.
Lack of government support: In certain cases, the handicraft sector suffered from inadequate government support. Insufficient policies, lack of training programs, limited investment, and a lack of protection against cheap imitations or plagiarism negatively impacted artisans’ livelihoods and the overall growth of the handicraft industry.
It is worth noting that these challenges vary in their magnitude and significance across different regions and countries. Additionally, some regions have successfully revived and revitalized their handicraft industries through proactive measures such as skill development programs, improved marketing strategies, and increased collaboration with designers and the tourism sector.
The decline of the handicraft industry before the G20 can be attributed to various factors including industrialization, globalization, changing consumer preferences, lack of infrastructure and resources, economic challenges, limited financial support, inadequate exposure and marketing, and insufficient government support. Understanding these challenges is crucial for formulating effective strategies to uplift and sustain the handicraft sector in the future.
As the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha has been actively involved in promoting and supporting the handicraft sector in the region. He recognizes the significance of handicrafts as a major cultural and economic asset for Jammu and Kashmir.
1. Skill Development Initiatives: Manoj Sinha has implemented various skill development programs to empower artisans and craftsmen. These initiatives aim to enhance their skills, provide them with technical knowledge, and promote innovation in traditional crafts. This helps in preserving the rich heritage of Jammu and Kashmir’s handicrafts while also equipping artisans with modern techniques.
2. Financial Assistance: The LG has facilitated financial assistance schemes, loans, and subsidies for handicraft artisans. These provisions enable them to set up their workshops, purchase raw materials, and upgrade their tools and infrastructure. Financial support plays a crucial role in sustaining the handicraft sector and improving the livelihoods of artisans.
3. Marketing and Promotion: Manoj Sinha emphasizes the need to market and promote Jammu and Kashmir handicrafts globally. Under his leadership, initiatives have been taken to participate in national and international trade fairs, exhibitions, and buyer-seller meets. These platforms provide exposure to artisans, allowing them to showcase their craftsmanship and connect with potential buyers and markets.
4. Infrastructure Development: The LG understands the importance of a robust infrastructure for the growth of the handicraft sector. He has focused on improving transportation facilities, establishing craft clusters, and upgrading existing infrastructure like artisan workshops and production units. Such developments facilitate smoother operations and enhance the overall productivity of the sector.
5. Revival and Revitalization: To revive and revitalize traditional handicrafts in Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha has initiated measures to document and preserve traditional techniques. This involves conducting research, organizing training programs, and creating awareness about endangered crafts. By undertaking these efforts, the LG ensures that traditional crafts are not lost and can be passed on to future generations.
Overall, Manoj Sinha’s efforts have significantly contributed to the growth and development of the handicraft sector in Jammu and Kashmir. By focusing on skill development, financial support, marketing, infrastructure, and revival of traditional crafts, he has contributed to empowering artisans, preserving cultural heritage, and creating sustainable livelihoods for the handicraft community.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited the Handicraft and Handloom Exhibition at Kashmir Haat.
He inspected the stalls put up by the Artisans and women entrepreneurs of Self-Help Groups showcasing a variety of their creative products.
The Lt Governor appreciated the creativity and ingenuity of all the craftspeople and their dedicated service to preserve and promote the artistic heritage of Jammu Kashmir.
Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and senior officers were also present.
The G20, comprising the world’s major economies, has the potential to significantly contribute to the development and promotion of handicrafts in Jammu and Kashmir. The region is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite craftsmanship, making it an ideal candidate for international recognition and support. In this article, we will explore how the G20 can uplift the handicraft sector in Jammu and Kashmir, unleashing its true potential and benefiting both artisans and the local economy.
1. Promoting Artisan Empowerment: One of the key objectives of the G20 could be to empower artisans in Jammu and Kashmir by providing them with the necessary skills, resources, and market access. This could be achieved through capacity-building programs, vocational training, and skill development initiatives, enabling artisans to enhance their craftsmanship and learn modern marketing techniques. By investing in artisan empowerment, the G20 can foster sustainable livelihoods and the preservation of traditional handicraft techniques.
2. Creating Market Linkages:The G20 can play a significant role in connecting Jammu and Kashmir artisans with global markets. This could be realized by organizing international trade fairs, exhibitions, and buyer-seller meets where artisans can showcase their creations. Additionally, the G20 countries can facilitate bilateral trade agreements, eliminate trade barriers, and streamline customs procedures to encourage the export of handicraft products. This enhanced market access would open new avenues for artisans, generating higher incomes and an increased demand for their products.
3. Encouraging Innovation and Design: In today’s competitive world, innovation and design play a crucial role in the success of any industry. The G20 can support Jammu and Kashmir artisans in embracing innovative techniques, and adopting modern designs while preserving traditional elements. This could be achieved through collaborations with international designers, providing design education and mentorship, and organizing design competitions that promote the fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. By encouraging artisan-led innovation, the G20 would enable Jammu and Kashmir to produce unique and globally appealing handicrafts.
4. Strengthening Infrastructure: Efficient infrastructure is vital for the growth of any sector. The G20 can extend its support to Jammu and Kashmir by investing in the development of infrastructure facilities such as artisan clusters, craft villages, and dedicated craft hubs. These facilities can provide artisans with a conducive environment to work, collaborate, and learn from each other. Moreover, the G20 can assist in establishing quality testing and certification centers to ensure adherence to international standards, enabling Jammu and Kashmir handicrafts to enter global markets with confidence.
5. Providing Financial Assistance: Access to reasonable financing and financial resources can be difficult for craftsmen. The G20 can help craftsmen in Jammu and Kashmir by facilitating microfinance initiatives, grants, and loans, allowing them to invest in raw materials, tools, and equipment. Furthermore, the G20 countries might provide financial assistance to artisan cooperatives, allowing them to expand their operations, boost production capacity, and enter new markets. By resolving financial restrictions, the G20 can greatly increase the region’s handicraft sector’s growth and sustainability.
6. Fostering Cultural Exchange: The G20 can serve as a platform for promoting cultural exchange between Jammu and Kashmir artisans and their counterparts from other countries. This exchange can take the form of workshops, training programs, and residency programs, where artisans can learn from each other’s techniques, share experiences, and explore new artistic collaborations. Such cultural exchanges not only enrich the artisans’ skills but also provide them with exposure to international art forms and market trends.
The G20 has a fantastic potential to help the handicraft industry in Jammu & Kashmir. The G20 can unlock the actual potential of Jammu and Kashmir’s handicraft industry by empowering craftspeople, building market links, stimulating innovation, strengthening infrastructure, giving financial aid, and boosting cultural interchange. This would not only aid in the preservation of cultural history, but would also contribute to economic growth, job creation, and long-term development in the region.
The author is a journalist you can reach out to her at farheenwani47@gmail. Com.
