KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, Dec 31: Kashmir’s centuries-old handicraft sector has once again demonstrated its economic resilience and cultural strength, recording exports worth ₹410 crore during the first half of the financial year 2025–26, even as global markets continue to grapple with economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions.
According to official data, handicraft exports from Jammu and Kashmir stood at an impressive ₹310 crore during the first quarter (April–June 2025), followed by ₹100 crore in the second quarter (July–September 2025). While export figures for the third quarter (October–December) are yet to be compiled and are expected to be released in January 2026, officials maintain that the overall export momentum has remained steady despite headwinds in international trade.
Senior officials pointed out that the handicraft sector traditionally witnesses stronger performance in the third and fourth quarters of the financial year. Increased demand during the festive season in overseas markets, coupled with winter buying cycles in Europe and North America, generally boosts exports in the latter half of the year. As a result, expectations are high that the sector will post improved figures by the end of FY 2025–26.
During the previous financial year (FY 2024–25), Jammu and Kashmir recorded total handicraft exports amounting to ₹733 crore. With the first-half performance already crossing the halfway mark of last year’s total, officials remain optimistic about surpassing the previous year’s export figures, provided global conditions continue to stabilise. They noted that signs of easing disruptions linked to the Russia–Ukraine conflict and tensions in parts of the Middle East could further support international demand.
Kashmir’s handicraft industry, renowned worldwide for its authenticity and intricate craftsmanship, remains a lifeline for thousands of artisan families spread across Srinagar, Budgam, Ganderbal and several districts of South Kashmir. Traditional crafts such as pashmina shawls, hand-knotted carpets, papier-mâché products, walnut wood carving, crewel embroidery and chain-stitch work not only preserve the region’s rich cultural heritage but also form a significant pillar of the local economy.
Officials said export demand from key international markets, including Gulf countries, Europe and North America, has remained largely consistent. This stability has been supported by sustained efforts in quality upgradation, design innovation, product diversification and targeted outreach to overseas buyers.
Director of Handicrafts and Handloom, Mussarat Islam, said the department expects an overall improvement in export performance during the current financial year. He noted that focused initiatives are underway to explore and tap new niche markets while strengthening the global credibility of Kashmiri handmade products.
He emphasised that the introduction of GI-based QR labelling is a major step toward enhancing authenticity, traceability and buyer confidence in genuine Kashmir crafts, helping distinguish them from machine-made imitations flooding global markets.
The Director further said that artisans across the Valley are increasingly adapting to evolving international tastes by incorporating modern design elements, improving finishing standards and adhering to strict quality benchmarks, while ensuring that the traditional identity and soul of Kashmiri crafts remain intact.
At the same time, he acknowledged persistent challenges faced by the sector, including high logistics and freight costs, stiff competition from mass-produced alternatives and the need for deeper digitisation of supply chains. To address these issues, the department is pursuing multiple measures such as cluster-based artisan support, insurance coverage for craftsmen, skill upgradation programmes and enhanced export facilitation schemes aimed at strengthening long-term competitiveness.
Industry observers believe the strong first-half export performance reflects renewed confidence in Kashmir’s handicraft sector following the setbacks witnessed during the pandemic years. With the traditionally stronger third and fourth quarters still ahead, stakeholders are hopeful that FY 2025–26 will conclude with robust export numbers, further reinforcing Kashmir’s position as a global hub of handcrafted excellence and timeless artistry.
