Constitution Day, Editorial 27 November 2023 Issue

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Constitution Day
Constitution is the soul of Indian democracy. Constitution Day (IAST: Samvidhāna Divasa), also known as “National Law Day” , is celebrated in India on 26 November every year to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India. On 26 November 1949, the Constituent Assembly of India adopted to the Constitution of India, and it came into effect on 26 January 1950.
As a matter of fact, The Government of India declared 26 November as Constitution Day on 19 November 2015 by a gazette notification. The Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi made the declaration on 11 October 2015 while laying the foundation stone of the B. R. Ambedkar’s Statue of Equality memorial in Mumbai.[2] The year of 2021 was the 131st birth anniversary of Ambedkar, who had chaired the drafting committee of the Constituent Assembly and played a pivotal role in the drafting of the constitution. Previously this day was celebrated as Law Day. 26 November was chosen to spread the importance of the constitution and to spread thoughts and ideas of Ambedkar. PM Modi Speech On National Law Day 2021, 26 November, and also The President , Vice President and Lok Sabha Speaker also addressed the program.
It has rich background.
Since 2015 was the 125th birth anniversary year of B. R. Ambedkar (14 April 1891 – 6 December 1956), who is known as the father of the Indian constitution, the government decided in May 2015 to celebrate this year “in a big way”. A special committee chaired by Prime Minister of India was announced for year-long celebrations. Various programmes will be held by various ministries and departments throughout the year to spread thoughts and ideas of Ambedkar. As part of the celebrations while laying foundation stone for an Ambedkar memorial at the Indu Mills compounds in Mumbai in October 2015, the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi announced that 26 November will be celebrated as “Constitution Day”. In November 2015, the government officially announced celebration of the day.
We all need to respect and follow our great constitution to be a proud democracy always.

Air Quality Concerns in Kashmir, cover story 13 November 2023

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Air quality concerns in Kashmir
News Kashmir Analysis
Clean air entails healthy body.
Breathing clean air can lessen the possibility of disease from stroke, heart disease, lung cancer as well as chronic and acute respiratory illnesses such as asthma. Lower levels of air pollution are better for heart and respiratory health both long- and short-term.
As a matter of fact, An air quality index (AQI) is an indicator developed by government agencies to communicate to the public how polluted the air currently is or how polluted it is forecast to become.
According to a study, the air quality recorded for Srinagar city in the Kashmir valley, which is relatively surrounded by pollution-free environment, was found to start declining from the month of October.
This year, According to IQ Air, a real-time air quality information platform, the PM2.5 concentration in Srinagar’s air on January 9 was 28.2 µg/m³, which is 5.6 times over the World Health Organisation’s air quality values. The Air Quality Index was 83 at moderate level. On January 7, the PM 2.5 level reached an alarming 64.2 µg/m³ while the Air Quality Index in Srinagar touched 155 which is considered unhealthy. On an average, Kashmir has been witnessing moderate to high to moderate PM 2.5 and AQI levels with
onset of winter.
As a matter of fact, few time back
On world stroke day, Doctors Association Kashmir (DAK) has  said exposure to air pollution increases the risk of stroke.
“Poor air quality heightens your chances of getting a stroke,” said DAK President Dr Nisar ul Hassan.
Dr Hassan said according to a new study published in Journal Neurology short exposure of just 5 days to air pollutants could increase a person’s risk of stroke.
Previous studies have established a link between long term exposure to air pollution and increased risk of stroke.
The expert pulse is On average person inhales around 14,000 litres of air every day. When the air we breathe is of poor quality it can affect our health.
Particulate matter (PM) is a collective term for solid and liquid particles suspended in the air and small enough to be inhaled. PM varies greatly in structure and chemical composition depending on where it comes from. PM comes from human activities and natural sources. It is often classified according to its size because size determines how PM interacts with the environment and human body.
One hopes air quality in Kashmir improves in coming times.

Diwali Significance, editorial 13 November 2023

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Diwali significance
This is the eve and aura of festival of colours known as commonly Diwali.
The festive time of “Deepavali”, The Festival of Lights marks new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil, and light over darkness. Also popular as Deepawali or Diwali the ‘Festival of Lights’ coincides with harvest and new year celebrations. The word Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, which means a row of lights. [Deep = light and avali = a row]. It is one of the most prominent festival in India and South-East Asia, celebrated with great warmth, joy, and shining grandeur, like Christmas is celebrated in many parts of the world.
The festival falls on the darkest, new moon night of the Hindu lunar month Kartika, that happens between mid-October to mid-November.
The festival of Diwali symbolises the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil, and right over wrong. It is an occasion of high spiritual value as it signifies the opening of our own true light which sparkles within us and sharing this glow with others as well.
Observed by more than a billion people across faiths, this five-day festival of lights brings prayer, feasts, fireworks and, for some, a new year. Diwali is India’s most important festival of the year—a time to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil.
Diwali symbolises the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil. This year, Diwali was celebrated on November 12. During the festival time, homes and streets are adorned with colourful lamps and candles, while families come together to exchange gifts, sweets, and warm wishes.
The humanity hopes Diwali ushers peace and prosperity in entire world.

Baabarr Mudacer Music Star Interview

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Struggle and compromise key to success: Baabarr Mudacer, famous Singer and rapper

Mudasir Hassan known as Baabarr Mudacer (born in 1995) is an independent musician, singer and rapper from Bandipore, in union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, India . He is known for his charity works from music.
Baabarr Mudacer is emerging as sensational singing icon of Kashmir.
He possesses multiple talents like Singing, rapper and producer. In an exclusive interview with the News Kashmir,he talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.

Tell us a bit about your early journey ?
My journey has been fascinating. I had love towards music and singing from childhood days and used to sing without fear on morning assembly of school, and teachers used to support a lot.
I see myself as bestowed by Almighty on every step of this journey.
So how did this journey translate into such success?
The immense support of my parents , friends, teachers along with my utmost dedication and hardwork helped me to reach here. I see myself as favourite toy of Almighty as my hardwork translated into success.
You link your music journey with lot of charity works ,a bit about that?
Yes, I love to do charity work. We all need to help each other and lift one another. If there are somethings that are with you and not with someone try to create balance and ease sufferings through charity works.
Lot of pain in this world ,how can music ease it?
The concept and perceptions vary from person to person. But, I feel in that music can give lot of happiness to those in need. So it has a major role in ending human pain.
You are often in traditional attire of Kashmir like Pehran, while performing, a bit on that?
I love my roots and deeply adore and love the traditions and culture of Kashmir, so often wear traditional attire and also deeply respect and promote Kashmiri language. We all should be proud of our land and its great culture.
How do you deal with criticism?
There are two types of criticism. One is positive or constructive criticism and another one is negative or destructive criticism. The constructive criticism aimed at correcting your flaws is welcome but destructive criticism based on nonsense things deserves no place.
Where do you bring this high energy from in your performances?
The love of my parents and fans keep me always in high spirits so this level of energy.
What is your message to those youngsters interested in music career ?
I would like to tell them that two things in life shape your career, one is going through immense struggles and second thing is compromise that is not arguing or complaining about everything.
Your debut was on poetry of legendary Habba Khatoon, do you want to perform more on sufi poets ?
Yes,that is right. As a rapper, singer and producer my schedule is often tight. I have a project in mind where we give voice to the heart touching poetry and thoughts of legends in our history. I want to do it on a formal platform so that it enthralls globe .
Since you are embarking on international music tours, what sort of songs are on your priority?
It all will depend upon the choice of audience, but yes performances in other countries in front of Kashmiri diaspora would be focused on Kashmiri songs .

What is your message ?
My message is stay happy, stay grounded and work hard to achieve your goals. Above all respect and love elders especially your parents.

Early detection and screening effective way to combat Breast Cancer: Dr. Shabnam Bashir

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Early detection and screening effective way to combat Breast Cancer: Dr. Shabnam Bashir
Dr. Shabnam Bashir is doctor of par excellence. Trained in Colorectal and Breast cancer surgeries & cytoreductive surgeries from Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai and in Robotic surgeries from USA.   She is currently practicing in  Kashmir and leading the breast cancer awareness related things in Jammu and Kashmir.
In an exclusive interview with News Kashmir, she talks to Farzana Mumtaz and Rameez Makhdoomi.
How was the response especially from the society towards your recent events on breast cancer awareness  been ?
This is such a effort that I wanted to do since long time. I hold basically two events Pinkathon, in October and Blueathon in March. The basic motive is to create awareness related to diverse aspects of breast cancer awareness. The response is quite good from public.
Do you believe that shyness with women with reference to breast issues is going?
This is a deep rooted issue and does not go easily. When I starred two years back the situation was tough and lot of taboos were there.  But with effective participation of youth the situation has improved.  We did event with music and Fine arts and there illustrations and art helped us. The need of the hour is to involve more educated youth as we are doing to end the taboos and inhibitions related to the breast cancer. I would again  and again reaffirm that early detection and screening is the burning need to combat effectively breast cancer.
How to detect breast cancer in male ?
98 to 99 percent breast cancer cases are in women and the rest are in men and transgender .  Due to specific genes or mutations related to them in some cases the breast cancer cases are found in men too and by going for screening it can be detected.
How far is breast cancer currently widespread in India?
This time due to changes in lifestyle and habits ovary cancer is the leading cancer among the women. The breast cancer threat is more common among urban women than in rural women in India .  First we used to have cervical cancer at top .Breast cancer is also increasing due to food adulteration and life style changes . According to credible studies , 1 out of 60  have risk and astonishingly 1 out of 20 urban women have risk of breast cancer.
Due to robust national programme focusing on screening and vaccination the cervical cancer has abated in women . Ovary and breast cancer are challenges for women especially from rapid urbanization,  poor diet and pollution.
How widespread is cancer in Kashmir?
We get cancer figures from the cancer registry. In States like Karnataka we have to notify cancer cases if we adopt same here  then only we can achieve correct figures on it.   Like we have had nodal officers working and notifying on Tuberculosis in Jammu and Kashmir.
No doubt the cancer is challenging disease among men and women. We need to rely on population registry to get figures.  In population registry few  years back we had oesophagus  cancer leading in Kashmir. The cancers like Lung, Colon, Breast are also leading here.
The need is to make good diet habits to avoid cancers especially avoid too much of non vegetarian, fast food and we have to avoid too much salt .
Many cancer experts believe that more vegetarian diet should be included as opposed to non vegetarian to escape from cancer?
Yes the too much of non vegetarian items in diet increase chances of different forms of cancer,  while as the vegetarian items like Tomatoes and potatoes have anticancer properties .
Lastly,  do you believe cancer treatment is back breaking for poor humans and there families?
There is no doubt that for poor people and their families  the disease is financially,  emotionally and physically draining both for them and there families.  If in the country early detection happens more frequently that can save poor people from lot of burdens.

National Cancer Awareness Day , Editorial 6 November 2023

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National Cancer Awareness Day
Cancer refers to any one of a large number of diseases characterized by the development of abnormal cells that divide uncontrollably and have the ability to infiltrate and destroy normal body tissue. Cancer often has the ability to spread throughout your body.
Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in the world. But survival rates are improving for many types of cancer, thanks to improvements in cancer screening, treatment and prevention.
National Cancer Awareness Day is observed on the 7th of November in India every year since 2014 to create public awareness about early detection, prevention, and treatment of cancer.
On this day, various healthcare organisations , government agencies, and non-profit groups collaborate to organise awareness campaigns, seminars, and screenings to mark National Cancer Awareness Day and work towards reducing the burden of cancer nationwide.
According to the reports by the World Health Organization, Cancer is still a leading contributor to mortality rates in the country. In India, as many as 1.1 million new cancer cases are reported every single year, highlighting the severe burden the disease has on the nation’s healthcare system and population. A large proportion of these cancer cases are detected when the disease has already reached an advanced stage, greatly compromising the prospects of successful treatment and survival.
It is painful facet that We can’t ignore the fact that the financial burden associated with cancer can force patients and households into acute misery, destitution, and even insolvency. Therefore, cancer drugs must be affordable so that whenever required the treatment can be provided to the patients at the earliest in the early stages when the cancer is curable. Cancer drug availability and affordability will give impetus to treatment outcomes that will bring down the cost of treatment.
One hopes we are able to eradicate cancer in India and world.

Women in Skies, Editorial 23 october 2023

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Women in Skies

Flying in skies especially aeroplanes is becoming a great career for girls.
Girls in Kashmir like other parts of the country are perfectly catching up to give flight to their wings.  The profession of pilots wherein women managing aircrafts is becoming a lucrative career option for girls in India. Going for same would give Kashmiri girls much needed name ,fame and financial strength .
It is much delight fact that at 15%, India has most number of female pilots in the world.
In 1989, Nivedita Bhasin became the youngest commercial airline captain in the world. The Indian Air Force began recruiting women pilots for helicopters and transport aircraft back in the 1990s.
As per the latest data, 15% of the pilots in the country are women. According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), this is three times the global average of 5%. However, there is no special programme to encourage pilot training for women, SC, and ST communities.
The data and statistics are speaking proud volumes in this regard.
total of 244 pilots have been recruited in 2021 as per the data received from various Indian scheduled airlines. And, estimates suggest that India may require 1,000 pilots per annum over the next five years.
Further, the data mentioned that there are approximately 10,000 pilots including 67 foreign nationals working with various domestic airlines in India, DGCA added.
Last year, the International Society of Women Airline Pilots also released gender equality in the airline industry in 2021. The report noted that at 12.4% (in 2021) India ranked top in gender equality at the flight deck, followed by Ireland (9.9%), South Africa (9.8%), Australia (7.5%), Canada (7%), Germany (6.9%), USA (5.5%), UK (4.7%), New Zealand (4.5%), Scandinavia (3.8%), Qatar (2.4%), Japan (1.3%) and Singapore (1%), respectively.
Kashmir too has now girls which are making valley and country proud throughout the world.
Women in Kashmir and other parts of the

Fruit price rise in Kashmir, 23 october 2023 cover story

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Fruit Price Rise in Kashmir
News Kashmir Analysis
Fruits are a very vital  part of diet. They are essential segment of diet important for good health. The expert pulse is that Fruits are a good source of vitamins and minerals, recognized for their role in preventing vitamin C and vitamin A deficiencies. People who incorporate fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy eating pattern have a reduced risk of some chronic diseases.
In Kashmir valley the people in many parts are unable to take quality fruits due to their price hikes . The all important fruits are priced at very high rates beyond the reach of common man.
We take a detailed look at the overwll market scenario.  Kiwi contains abundant amounts of Vitamin C, which stimulates the body’s immune response. In fact, the kiwifruit contains roughly 230% of the daily recommended intake of Vitamin C.
In  Kashmir at most of the fruit shops the quality Kiwis are priced at rs 50 rupees one piece, which is very taxing for a common man.
Banana is among widely 0 popular fruits of world and highly popular in Kashmir too. In Kashmir a single piece of Banana now cost rs 10 which amounts to rs 120 a dozen quite expensive from previous times. We need to bear in mind Bananas contain a number of vitamins and minerals. Vitamin B6: A medium banana gives you about a quarter of the vitamin B6 you should get each day. It helps with metabolism. And it plays an important role in brain development during pregnancy and infancy, as well as immune system health.
Watermelon is one of the widely used fruit in Kashmir especially in the fasting month of Ramadan. As a matter of fact, Watermelon is rich in an amino acid called citrulline that may help move blood through your body and can lower your blood pressure. Your heart also enjoys the perks of all the lycopene watermelon contains. Studies show that it may lower your risk of heart attacks.
This time the current price of watermelon is ranging from rs 60 to rs 70 in Kashmir per kg and single ball of watermelon  costs from  rs 350 to 400.
Although due to bulk production often Apple is available at cheaper Price.
Syed Irfan Hashmi, a consumer observed that fruits esential part of every diet. He  states :”  Due to varied reasons the prices of all most all the important fruits in Kashmir are on higher side. The hope is that with improvement of transportation and logistics the fruit prices in Kashmir would in future times come down. Throughout the world climate Change is also hamppering   fruit production and it needs to be looked into. Fruit at affordable price is must.”
The hope is fruit prices in Kashmir would be affordable in coming  times.

Ah Ghulam Nabi Khyal, opinion 6 November, 2023

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Ah Ghulam Nabi Khyal
Tribute by Rameez Bhat
( The writer can be reached at

 

ramizspeaks77@gmail.com)

On Sunday October 15, 2023, we lost the outstanding writer of Kashmiri literature Ghulam Nabi Khyal Sahib a Sahitya Akademi award-winning journalist. Ghulam Nabi Khayal, a prominent figure in both literature and journalism, passed away at his home in Rawalpora, Srinagar on a Sunday morning at the age of 85.

 

Khayal initiated his career as a radio news reader in Radio Kashmir during the 1950s. He later contributed to numerous prominent news organisations in India, including the Illustrated Weekly of India, India Today, The Associated Press, and various radio stations, including the Voice of America. Khayal was a prolific writer, with a portfolio of over 30 books in Kashmiri, English, and Urdu. His notable works encompass ‘Gashik Minaar’ (Luminaries), which earned him the Sahitya Akademi award in 1975, and his Kashmiri translation of the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam. In 2015, he returned his Sahitya Akademi award in protest against the mistreatment of minorities in India.

Ghulam Nabi Khayal was a well-known Kashmiri writer and journalist who made significant contributions to both Kashmiri literature and journalism. His writings primarily revolved around the culture, traditions, and social issues of Kashmir. Khayal was recognized for his ability to capture the essence of Kashmiri life and its rich cultural heritage in his literary works. Additionally, his journalistic career played a pivotal role in promoting Kashmir’s culture and heritage.

He also devoted five years of service to the Culture Academy, where he held various positions, including editor, chief editor, and correspondent for numerous national and international publications, including notable ones such as The Mahaz, The Kong Posh, and The Watan.

Khayal’s commitment to the preservation and promotion of the Kashmiri language and literature was highly commendable. His legacy is celebrated in the context of Kashmiri culture and literature. He’s known as the advocate of the Kashmiri language and the preservation of the region’s rich heritage.

He used his works to shed light on the complexities of Kashmiri society, including its traditions and folklore.

As a journalist, he was known for offering insightful reporting and commentary on local and regional issues. Through his work, he provided a platform for the voices of the Kashmiri people and drew attention to the region’s unique cultural and social aspects. Ghulam Nabi Khayal’s influence extended to both the literary and journalistic circles in the region. His legacy continues to inspire writers, journalists, and enthusiasts of Kashmiri culture, as his work remains a valuable source for understanding the multifaceted nature of Kashmir and its people.

During his prolific career as a Kashmiri writer, Ghulam Nabi Khayal authored several books. While an exhaustive list of his works isn’t available, some of his notable publications include “Gulrang,” a collection of short stories, “Kashmiri Natak,” a book on Kashmiri theater, “Tsol Ta Thal” and “Buch,” which are collections of essays, and “Shahrar,” a collection of humorous writings. These works have significantly impacted Kashmiri literature and continue to be cherished by readers interested in the rich cultural and literary heritage of Kashmir.

Comprehensively Ghulam Nabi Khayal’s career made a lasting impact on Kashmiri literature, journalism, and the preservation of Kashmiri culture, leaving an indelible mark on the region’s cultural and literary landscape.

May the departed soul be granted eternal peace by Almighty Allah!

 

Pre and post-handicraft sector in J&K               LG’s Contribution to Industry Growth

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Pre and post-handicraft sector in J&K
              LG’s Contribution to Industry Growth
Farheen Wani
farheenwani47@gmail. Com
 Jammu and Kashmir is famous throughout the world for its scenic beauty, bracing climate, and craftsmanship skills. It was during the reign of Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin, popularly known as Budshash or the great king who ruled Kashmir from 1420-70 AD that handicrafts were introduced in Kashmir. The kingZain-ul-Abidin hired skilled craftsmen from Central Asia to train local inhabitants in a number of handicrafts which were till then altogether unknown to the people of the state. Since then craft legacies continued and got encouragement and patronage from different rulers, princes, and visitors to the valley, thus skills passing on from generation to generation. Jammu & Kashmir has a comparative advantage in producing high quality and world-famous fabrics of Pashmina and Kani shawls, silken, woolen, and cotton fabrics and crafts like paper-mache, woodwork, Tila work, Sozni, Crewel, etc. These products are famous the world over because of their unique craftsmanship. Handicrafts in Jammu and Kashmir present a fascinating spectrum of creative imagination and design that is intimately woven into the life patterns of its people. The agility of local artisans coupled with their artistic imagination reflected through a wide range of products has delighted people the world over for centuries. The J&K Handicrafts Department plays a vital role in promoting handicrafts products in rural as well as urban areas by providing financial and technical assistance to unemployed youth and artisans of the state for setting up micro and small units in industrial sectors under various schemes.
  The handicraft sector occupies an important position in the economic structure of J&K state. Being eco-friendly, this sector suits the state as it is more labour-intensive and less capital-intensive in nature, therefore, having scope for employment generation at a large scale. J&K handicraft products are worldwide famous for their attractive designs, functional utility, and high-quality craftsmanship. In the absence of large-scale industries in the UT, handicrafts remained a key economic activity from times immemorial. Crafts like shawls, crewels, namdha, chain stitch, wood carving, costume jewelry, kani shawls, paper machines, and carpets hold a significant share in the overall production and export of the state. Silken carpets in particular constitute a specialty having no parallel in quality and design at the national level and therefore, it occupies an important position in the international market.
Handicrafts refer to remarkable, skill-based creations that are made primarily by hand, reflecting the artistic traditions, cultural heritage, and craftsmanship of a particular region or community. These creations can include textiles, pottery, jewelry, woodwork, metalwork, and various other art forms.
 The reasons why the handicraft industry faced challenges leading up to the G20:
 Industrialization and mass production: With the rise of industrialization, the economy shifted towards mass production, which affected the demand for handicrafts. Factories and machines were capable of producing goods on a larger scale, often leading to lower costs and increased convenience for consumers. This shift, in turn, affected the market for handmade crafts.
Globalization and changing consumer preferences: The advent of globalization led to increased exposure to different cultures and products from around the world. As a result, consumer preferences started to favor mass-produced, machine-made items, rather than unique handicrafts. The shift in consumer behaviour played a significant role in the decline of the handicraft industry.
 Lack of infrastructure and resources: Many artisans and craftsmen lacked access to modern infrastructure, including reliable supply chains, efficient transportation, and proper marketing channels. Without these essential resources, it became challenging for handicraft producers to compete in a rapidly changing marketplace.
Economic challenges and poverty: Handicrafts are often produced in developing countries or regions with economic challenges. As poverty rates increased, people prioritized basic needs over purchasing luxury or non-essential items such as handicrafts. This resulted in decreased demand and sales for artisans.
Inadequate financial support and limited access to credit: Artisans, especially in less developed areas, often faced difficulties in accessing financial support or credit to expand their businesses or invest in equipment and materials. The lack of funds hindered their ability to improve the quality of their crafts or reach out to broader markets.
Limited exposure and marketing opportunities: Artisans and craftsmen often struggled to reach potential buyers due to limited exposure and marketing opportunities. Without proper platforms, it became challenging to showcase their unique products to a larger audience, further contributing to the decline of the industry.
Lack of government support: In certain cases, the handicraft sector suffered from inadequate government support. Insufficient policies, lack of training programs, limited investment, and a lack of protection against cheap imitations or plagiarism negatively impacted artisans’ livelihoods and the overall growth of the handicraft industry.
It is worth noting that these challenges vary in their magnitude and significance across different regions and countries. Additionally, some regions have successfully revived and revitalized their handicraft industries through proactive measures such as skill development programs, improved marketing strategies, and increased collaboration with designers and the tourism sector.
The decline of the handicraft industry before the G20 can be attributed to various factors including industrialization, globalization, changing consumer preferences, lack of infrastructure and resources, economic challenges, limited financial support, inadequate exposure and marketing, and insufficient government support. Understanding these challenges is crucial for formulating effective strategies to uplift and sustain the handicraft sector in the future.
As the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha has been actively involved in promoting and supporting the handicraft sector in the region. He recognizes the significance of handicrafts as a major cultural and economic asset for Jammu and Kashmir.
1. Skill Development Initiatives: Manoj Sinha has implemented various skill development programs to empower artisans and craftsmen. These initiatives aim to enhance their skills, provide them with technical knowledge, and promote innovation in traditional crafts. This helps in preserving the rich heritage of Jammu and Kashmir’s handicrafts while also equipping artisans with modern techniques.
2. Financial Assistance: The LG has facilitated financial assistance schemes, loans, and subsidies for handicraft artisans. These provisions enable them to set up their workshops, purchase raw materials, and upgrade their tools and infrastructure. Financial support plays a crucial role in sustaining the handicraft sector and improving the livelihoods of artisans.
3. Marketing and Promotion: Manoj Sinha emphasizes the need to market and promote Jammu and Kashmir handicrafts globally. Under his leadership, initiatives have been taken to participate in national and international trade fairs, exhibitions, and buyer-seller meets. These platforms provide exposure to artisans, allowing them to showcase their craftsmanship and connect with potential buyers and markets.
4. Infrastructure Development: The LG understands the importance of a robust infrastructure for the growth of the handicraft sector. He has focused on improving transportation facilities, establishing craft clusters, and upgrading existing infrastructure like artisan workshops and production units. Such developments facilitate smoother operations and enhance the overall productivity of the sector.
5. Revival and Revitalization: To revive and revitalize traditional handicrafts in Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha has initiated measures to document and preserve traditional techniques. This involves conducting research, organizing training programs, and creating awareness about endangered crafts. By undertaking these efforts, the LG ensures that traditional crafts are not lost and can be passed on to future generations.
Overall, Manoj Sinha’s efforts have significantly contributed to the growth and development of the handicraft sector in Jammu and Kashmir. By focusing on skill development, financial support, marketing, infrastructure, and revival of traditional crafts, he has contributed to empowering artisans, preserving cultural heritage, and creating sustainable livelihoods for the handicraft community.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited the Handicraft and Handloom Exhibition at Kashmir Haat.
He inspected the stalls put up by the Artisans and women entrepreneurs of Self-Help Groups showcasing a variety of their creative products.
The Lt Governor appreciated the creativity and ingenuity of all the craftspeople and their dedicated service to preserve and promote the artistic heritage of Jammu Kashmir.
Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and senior officers were also present.
The G20, comprising the world’s major economies, has the potential to significantly contribute to the development and promotion of handicrafts in Jammu and Kashmir. The region is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite craftsmanship, making it an ideal candidate for international recognition and support. In this article, we will explore how the G20 can uplift the handicraft sector in Jammu and Kashmir, unleashing its true potential and benefiting both artisans and the local economy.
1. Promoting Artisan Empowerment: One of the key objectives of the G20 could be to empower artisans in Jammu and Kashmir by providing them with the necessary skills, resources, and market access. This could be achieved through capacity-building programs, vocational training, and skill development initiatives, enabling artisans to enhance their craftsmanship and learn modern marketing techniques. By investing in artisan empowerment, the G20 can foster sustainable livelihoods and the preservation of traditional handicraft techniques.
2. Creating Market Linkages:The G20 can play a significant role in connecting Jammu and Kashmir artisans with global markets. This could be realized by organizing international trade fairs, exhibitions, and buyer-seller meets where artisans can showcase their creations. Additionally, the G20 countries can facilitate bilateral trade agreements, eliminate trade barriers, and streamline customs procedures to encourage the export of handicraft products. This enhanced market access would open new avenues for artisans, generating higher incomes and an increased demand for their products.
3. Encouraging Innovation and Design: In today’s competitive world, innovation and design play a crucial role in the success of any industry. The G20 can support Jammu and Kashmir artisans in embracing innovative techniques, and adopting modern designs while preserving traditional elements. This could be achieved through collaborations with international designers, providing design education and mentorship, and organizing design competitions that promote the fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. By encouraging artisan-led innovation, the G20 would enable Jammu and Kashmir to produce unique and globally appealing handicrafts.
4. Strengthening Infrastructure: Efficient infrastructure is vital for the growth of any sector. The G20 can extend its support to Jammu and Kashmir by investing in the development of infrastructure facilities such as artisan clusters, craft villages, and dedicated craft hubs. These facilities can provide artisans with a conducive environment to work, collaborate, and learn from each other. Moreover, the G20 can assist in establishing quality testing and certification centers to ensure adherence to international standards, enabling Jammu and Kashmir handicrafts to enter global markets with confidence.
5. Providing Financial Assistance: Access to reasonable financing and financial resources can be difficult for craftsmen. The G20 can help craftsmen in Jammu and Kashmir by facilitating microfinance initiatives, grants, and loans, allowing them to invest in raw materials, tools, and equipment. Furthermore, the G20 countries might provide financial assistance to artisan cooperatives, allowing them to expand their operations, boost production capacity, and enter new markets. By resolving financial restrictions, the G20 can greatly increase the region’s handicraft sector’s growth and sustainability.
6. Fostering Cultural Exchange: The G20 can serve as a platform for promoting cultural exchange between Jammu and Kashmir artisans and their counterparts from other countries. This exchange can take the form of workshops, training programs, and residency programs, where artisans can learn from each other’s techniques, share experiences, and explore new artistic collaborations. Such cultural exchanges not only enrich the artisans’ skills but also provide them with exposure to international art forms and market trends.
The G20 has a fantastic potential to help the handicraft industry in Jammu & Kashmir. The G20 can unlock the actual potential of Jammu and Kashmir’s handicraft industry by empowering craftspeople, building market links, stimulating innovation, strengthening infrastructure, giving financial aid, and boosting cultural interchange. This would not only aid in the preservation of cultural history, but would also contribute to economic growth, job creation, and long-term development in the region.
The author is a journalist you can reach out to her at farheenwani47@gmail. Com.