REASI: In a significant initiative aimed at strengthening market integration and enhancing the economic prospects of traditional artisans, the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom Jammu, in collaboration with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Srinagar and the District Administration Reasi, organised a one-day capacity building workshop on Packaging and Branding for Handicraft Artisans and Handloom Weavers at the Conference Hall, DC Office Complex, Reasi.

Deputy Commissioner, Nidhi Malik, graced the occasion as Chief Guest and formally inaugurated the workshop. Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the pivotal role of effective packaging and branding in enhancing the value, visibility and marketability of handicraft and handloom products. She emphasized that in today’s competitive marketplace, quality craftsmanship must be complemented by professional presentation and strong brand identity to ensure better price realization and access to national and international markets.

The Deputy Commissioner encouraged artisans and weavers to actively participate in such training programmes, adopt contemporary practices and leverage government schemes and institutional platforms to expand their market reach. She assured continued support from the District Administration in promoting the handicraft and handloom sector as a key driver of inclusive economic growth in the district.

Resource persons from NIFT Srinagar conducted comprehensive technical sessions on contemporary packaging and branding practices, focusing on design aesthetics, consumer preferences, cost-effective packaging solutions and brand positioning. Participants were also briefed on the role of NIFT and the various professional courses, short-term trainings and skill development programmes offered by the institute for artisans and craft-based entrepreneurs.

Expert-led sessions were followed by interactive discussions and hands-on activities, enabling participants to engage directly with the resource persons, seek clarifications and deliberate on practical challenges related to product presentation, branding strategies, pricing mechanisms and access to wider markets.

The programme concluded with a collective resolve to strengthen collaboration between artisans, institutions and government agencies to promote sustainable growth of the handicraft and handloom sector in Reasi. DSWO, Sachin Sharma, A.D Handicraft, Ujwal Singh, officials from Handicraft and Handloom department, departmental field functionaries and a huge number of artisans and weavers were present during the event.

In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here