LG Delivers Keynote Address, Highlights Growth, Global Outreach for Local Artisans
KD NEWS SERVICE
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today emphasized the resurgence of Jammu and Kashmir’s textile sector while delivering the keynote address at the “Jammu & Kashmir Textile Sourcing Fair-2024” through virtual mode. Highlighting J&K’s rich textile traditions, Sinha spoke about increasing market access and export opportunities for local artisans and manufacturers.
Terming the event a major boost for the region’s textile industry, the Lieutenant Governor said, “The Jammu & Kashmir Textile Sourcing Fair has become a hub for buyers from India and abroad, making significant contributions to the growth of the textile sector while benefiting artisans, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs.”
Sinha noted that the textile sector in J&K has witnessed impressive growth over the last 50 months, celebrating the region’s unique craft heritage. “A resurgence of the textile sector is underway. We are determined to further advance this growth through new initiatives,” he added.
Reform-Oriented Policies Driving Growth
The Lieutenant Governor attributed the success of the textile industry to reform-oriented policies and programs introduced by the government. He said these initiatives are designed to uplift the craft industry by focusing on infrastructure development, financial aid, and skill training for artisans.
Sinha described Jammu and Kashmir’s textile traditions as a source of national pride, lauding the intricate designs and unmatched creativity of local artisans. “The rich textile tradition of J&K is the pride of India. Our artistic heritage stands for sustained excellence and global competitiveness,” he said.
Calling upon national and international buyers, the Lieutenant Governor urged them to promote J&K’s unique textile products and expand market access for local artisans. “We must build upon our cooperation and elevate our productive partnership to a new level,” he appealed.
Fair Provides Global Platform for Artisans
The three-day fair, organized by the Department of Industries & Commerce, J&K Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO), and Handloom Export Promotion Council, was hosted at SKUAST Kashmir. The event saw participation from national and international buyers, exporters, and importers.
The fair provided a platform for business-to-business (B2B) meetings, exhibitions, and workshops, enabling stakeholders to connect, exchange market trends, and enhance their skills. Artisans and manufacturers displayed their products to a global audience, paving the way for expanding export opportunities.
Prominent attendees included Prof. Nazir A. Ganai, Vice Chancellor of SKUAST Kashmir; Saurabh Bhagat, Commissioner Secretary, Science & Technology Department; Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce Department; Vijay Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Khalid Jahangir, Managing Director, JKTPO, along with senior officials, artisans, and entrepreneurs.
The Lieutenant Governor’s remarks set an optimistic tone for the textile industry’s future in Jammu and Kashmir, as the government continues to invest in its artisans and create global platforms for their products.
