Dy CM inaugurates seven-day Gandhi Shilp Bazar–2025 at Kashmir Haat Srinagar
SRINAGAR: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary today inaugurated the seven-day Gandhi Shilp Bazar–2025 at Kashmir Haat, Srinagar, emphasizing that Jammu and Kashmir’s handicrafts and handloom traditions reflect the region’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, which the Government is committed to preserving and promoting for future generations.
The event has been organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organization (JKTPO) under the aegis of the Industries and Commerce Department, as part of its ongoing initiatives under the National Handicraft Development Programme (NHDP).
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister said that Gandhi Shilp Bazar serves as a national platform for artisans to exhibit their exceptional craftsmanship, connect with buyers, and highlight India’s vibrant handicraft traditions. He noted that the week-long exhibition includes live craft demonstrations and direct sales of artefacts at concessional rates, enabling visitors to experience the artistry behind handmade creations and purchase authentic products directly from artisans.
“I hope our artisans gain maximum benefit from this initiative. Handicrafts and handloom embody our composite culture, harmony, and coexistence. Such events play a vital role in sustaining and promoting this legacy,” the Deputy CM said.
During his visit, the Deputy Chief Minister inspected various stalls and interacted with artisans, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to the growth and promotion of handicraft and handloom sectors in Jammu and Kashmir.
The event witnessed the presence of Managing Director, JKTPO; Director, Industries & Commerce, Kashmir; Director, Handicrafts & Handloom, Kashmir; Director, IICT; Managing Director, Handicrafts Corporation; General Manager, DIC Srinagar; Assistant Director, DCH; General Manager, JKTPO, and other senior officials.
Around 40 artisans from across the country are participating in the Bazar, showcasing a wide range of handmade products including Pashmina and Kani Shawls, Sozni Embroidery, Paper Mache, Chain Stitch, Basohli Paintings, Crewelwork, Cane and Bamboo crafts, Dry Flower Art, Candle Making, Kapadaganda Dungaria, and Kondh Embroidery Shawls, among others.
The Gandhi Shilp Bazar–2025 is part of a series of exhibitions being held across major Indian cities to promote traditional art forms, support artisans, and preserve cultural expressions.
It is noteworthy that JKTPO recently organized a GI Fair–Buyer Seller Meet at Budgam, sponsored by the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s handicraft ecosystem.
