SRINAGAR: The Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, has extended heartiest congratulations to two outstanding weavers, Manzoor Ahmad Hajam and Fayaz Ahmad Wani, from Kanihama, Budgam, who have been conferred with the prestigious National Handloom Award, in recognition for their contribution in the field of Kani weaving.

They were conferred with the National Award for their joint entry – Chand-Daar Kani Shawl – by the President of India, Draupadi Murmu, during a glittering function held at New Delhi, to commemorate the National Handloom Day.  

In a press release issued here today, a spokesman of the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, stated that this honour is a fitting tribute to invaluable contribution of Manzoor Ahmad Hajam and Fayaz Ahmad Wani, who have distinguished themselves in the indigenous art of Kani weaving. “By winning such prestigious award, the master weavers have brought the Kani weaving technique on the forefront of the crafts sector, which will surely open up new vistas of business opportunities for the high value craft,” the spokesman added.

The award, which carries a citation and cash prize of ₹2.5 lakh, is for a rare form of Kani weaving technique guided by coded Talim scripts to ensure absolute precision, featuring nearly 20 distinct hues to recreate an antique masterpiece.

The spokesman further stated said their exquisite craftsmanship has not only kept our centuries-old tradition alive but has also earned global admiration. “They have become role models for thousands of weavers in Kashmir and the entire craft community celebrates this joyous moment with great pride,” 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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