KISHTWAR: The Department of Handicrafts Kishtwar organized an insightful Awareness-cum-Artisans Interaction Program at Thakrie aimed at enlightening local artisans about various government schemes and the registration process for availing these benefits. The session was led by Assistant Director, Handicrafts Pardeep Shan, who took the opportunity to share vital information with participants regarding the department's initiatives designed to uplift and support the handicraft community.
Artisans were encouraged to register with the department to access a wide array of benefits and schemes designed to foster growth and sustainability in the handicrafts sector. The attendees were briefed about various schemes available to artisans, including the Credit Card Scheme, Financial Support Scheme, Karkhandar Scheme, and Education Scholarship Scheme for the children of artisans and weavers. Additionally, the formation of Off Farm Producer Organisation (OFPO) clusters for different handicrafts and the benefits of the National Handicrafts Development Program (NHDP) were discussed.
Renowned artisan Nirmala Rana, an established figure in the handicrafts industry, attended and contributed to the program, offering valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by local artisans. Official Attendance: Among the officials present at the event were AHTO Handicrafts Gowhar, Sozni Instructor, and Arif, who is in charge of Carpet Weaving training centers. The program's central objective was to empower local artisans, promote their craft, and ensure they are well-informed about the schemes and support available to them.
