SRINAGAR: In a major fillip to Kashmir’s famed craft sector, hand-made products worth ₹309.62 Cr have been exported to various overseas destinations in the First Quarter of the current financial year, up from ₹126.90 Cr in the same quarter last year. As per figures made available by the concerned financial institutions, exports have recorded a huge jump of 243% and is the highest for Q1 in last four years.

In a press statement issued here today, a spokesperson from the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, stated that the Department is targeting craft exports of over Rs.1500 Cr during the current FY, provided global conflicts relent. “Higher exports of craft products to overseas destinations secures the welfare of Kashmir's famed artisans and weavers,” he said.      

Last year, craft products worth ₹733.59 Cr were exported, largely affected due to various global conflicts. “While Kani, Sozni shawls and hand-knotted carpets continue to lead exports, the other products exported include crewel, papier mache, chain stitch and wood carving items,” he added. 

The spokesman urged the exporters to avail Export Subsidy Scheme notified by the Government, which provides incentive of 10% of the total volume of GI registered handloom/ handicraft export products to any country with maximum reimbursement up to ₹5.00 crore in favour of eligible exporters registered with the Department,” he explained.    

Highlighting the Government’s strategy for welfare of artisan community, the spokesman further stated that the Department has a well-established Design Studio in the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology at Bagh-e-Ali Mardan Khan and unique prototypes conceived by the School of Designs and Craft Development Institute. “We urge the business stakeholders to access these designs and packaging models to add value to their products in high-end global markets,” he added.

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
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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