DyCM launches 3rd edition of ‘Know Your Artisan’ campaign, felicitates 11 master craftsmen
SRINAGAR: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary today launched the third edition of the ‘Know Your Artisan’ series under the acclaimed ‘Soulful Kashmir’ branding campaign at the historic Polo View Market.
Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Vikramjit Singh, graced the event as Guest of Honour, while Director, Handicrafts and Handloom (H&H) Kashmir, Mussarat Islam, senior departmental officers, and a large number of artisans also participated.
Organized by the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, the event transformed the colonial-era Polo View Market—famed for its polo legacy and scenic ambience—into a vibrant celebration of the Valley’s rich artisanal excellence.
At the outset, the Deputy Chief Minister visited stalls displaying Kashmir’s handcrafted treasures, including luxurious pashmina shawls, kani weaves, papier-mâché artifacts, and eco-friendly namda rugs.
In his address, the DyCM highlighted the broader vision of the initiative, reaffirming the government’s firm commitment to preserving Kashmir’s rich artisanal heritage while advancing economic empowerment for skilled craftsmen.
“By bringing these timeless traditions to the forefront, we not only honour our past but also weave a vibrant, sustainable future for our artisans,” he remarked.
Appreciating the campaign, Choudhary said the initiative effectively tackles modern challenges such as machine-made imitations, promotes women-led cooperatives, and strengthens direct market linkages to benefit artisans across the region.
He lauded the Department for positioning the campaign as a flagship initiative under ‘Soulful Kashmir’, aimed at revitalizing and commercializing the Union Territory’s globally acclaimed handicrafts and handlooms.
Urging collective efforts, the DyCM called upon all stakeholders to work together in safeguarding and promoting Kashmir’s invaluable cultural and artistic legacy.
Echoing his sentiments, Commissioner Secretary Vikramjit Singh emphasized the importance of blending innovation with heritage to ensure the continuity of traditional crafts across generations.
Director H&H, Mussarat Islam, underlined the significance of the ‘Know Your Artisan’ series in promoting GI-tagged authenticity, combating counterfeits, and fostering cultural harmony under the ‘Vocal for Local’ movement. He added that the initiative bridges the artisan-consumer gap by ensuring fair prices and ethical consumption, with proceeds directly reaching the creators.
Later, the Deputy Chief Minister felicitated 11 master artisans whose exceptional craftsmanship embodies Kashmir’s living legacy and preserves its centuries-old artistic traditions.
