Examiner Bureau | Jammu:
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Friday described the handloom sector as a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage, creativity and self-reliance, reaffirming the Jammu and Kashmir Government’s commitment to preserving traditional crafts and improving the livelihoods of artisans across the Union Territory.
Addressing the 12th National Handloom Day celebrations in Jammu, the Deputy Chief Minister said the handloom industry represents far more than a traditional occupation, as it embodies the country’s centuries-old craftsmanship, cultural identity and the resilience of artisan communities.
“Handloom is a celebration of our heritage, creativity and self-reliance. It is a living tradition that connects generations, reflects our cultural diversity and provides sustainable livelihoods to thousands of artisan families,” Choudhary said.
He said Jammu and Kashmir has a rich legacy of handloom products that have earned national and international recognition for their quality and craftsmanship. From the world-famous Pashmina and Kani shawls of Kashmir to the traditional weaving practices of the Jammu region, the Union Territory’s handloom sector continues to be an important contributor to its cultural and economic landscape.
The Deputy Chief Minister said the government remains committed to protecting these traditional crafts while ensuring that artisans receive the support required to compete in modern markets. He stressed the need to combine traditional skills with innovation, improved marketing, modern designs and digital platforms to enhance the reach of handloom products.
He said artisans are the custodians of the region’s cultural heritage and deserve sustained institutional support through skill development, financial assistance, better infrastructure and improved market access.
Highlighting the importance of the sector in generating employment, Choudhary said the handloom industry provides livelihood opportunities to thousands of families, particularly in rural areas, while promoting inclusive and sustainable economic development.
He also underlined the significance of National Handloom Day, observed every year on August 7, as an occasion to recognise the invaluable contribution of handloom weavers and artisans to the country’s economy and cultural identity. The day commemorates the launch of the Swadeshi Movement in 1905, which encouraged the use of indigenous products and promoted self-reliance.
The Deputy Chief Minister reiterated that the government would continue to formulate policies aimed at strengthening the handloom sector, preserving traditional weaving techniques and creating greater economic opportunities for artisans.
He called upon citizens to support locally produced handloom products, saying that every purchase directly contributes to sustaining traditional crafts and improving the lives of artisan families.
The celebrations featured exhibitions of handloom products, demonstrations by skilled artisans and interactions highlighting the rich weaving traditions of Jammu and Kashmir. The event also served as a platform to recognise the contribution of weavers and reaffirm the government’s resolve to preserve the Union Territory’s rich handloom heritage while ensuring its growth in an increasingly competitive market.
