KISHTWAR, APRIL 13: The Department of Handicrafts & Handloom Kishtwar today inaugurated a vibrant 5 Day Handicrafts & Handloom Expo- themed “Come Explore – Local products are waiting; your purchase keeps heritage alive”.
Organised under the RR Plan of HEPPs, the Expo is being held on the historic Chowgan Grounds and was inaugurated by the Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma as the Chief Guest. The CEO KDA Kaiser Bhawani was the Guest of Honour and the ACD Manoj Kumar – the Special Guest.
The programme commenced with lamp lighting by the Deputy Commissioner followed by inspection of stalls. Earlier, AD Handicrafts & Handloom Pardeep Shan welcomed the guests.
Artisans and trainees showcased their craft skills with live demonstrations and brief presentations, highlighting the rich tradition and craftsmanship of the region. Key highlights included live demonstrations of local crafts performed by the weavers and artisans.
This interactive session allowed visitors and dignitaries to witness traditional techniques firsthand including the languishing craft of weaving, wheat straw art, crochet and knitting work, crewel and Sozni embroidery and tailoring. Pottery making was also displayed.
The Deputy Commissioner, while addressing the participants, lauded the Department of Handicrafts & Handloom for organizing the programme, highlighting the success of the training initiatives under the Rehabilitation & Resettlement (R&R) program.
The DC noted that the trainees, who had received training and toolkits in various trades such as cutting, tailoring, embroidery and others have exhibited commendable progress. He emphasized that the results witnessed today through the display of different types of crafts are a testament to the program’s effectiveness.
The DC also praised the initiative to invite artisans from Doda, pointing out the significance of cross-regional collaboration. He encouraged the exchange of ideas, suggesting that artisans could learn from each other’s work and integrate new innovations into their craft.
Noting the differences in pottery between Kishtwar and Doda, he mentioned that while Kishtwar pottery is of a coarse type, Doda’s pottery is refined and polished.
The DC said that Kishtwar artisans should adopt some helpful techniques from the artisans of Doda, which could further enhance the quality of their products.
In addition, the DC expressed confidence in the excellence of local crafts of the district, such as Jute, Wool and other products, stating that they are second to none.
He also commended the work of the Assistant Director of Handicrafts & Handloom Kishtwar for his efforts in promoting local crafts and revitalizing the Handicraft Department and he acknowledged that such programmes will continue in the future.
The DC concluded by emphasizing the importance of preserving local culture and crafts. He pointed out that many households are reviving traditional items such as old lanterns and wheat straw artifacts and he stressed the need to continue promoting these cultural treasures.
Later, the DC distributed departmental registration cards to instructors and trainees from the centres across Sounder, Loharna, Bhagna, Lopara, Trigam, Kandani, Agral, Galhar-Bhatta and Padhyarna, all completed under the R&R Plan.
The DC also gave away the registration certificate to the newly registered Jai Shripal Cutting & Tailoring Handloom Industrial Cooperative, Bera Bhatta.
Artisans who have contributed to the preservation and promotion of traditional crafts were felicitated by the DC for their contributions.
An awareness session for the visitors and artisans on the 100 Days Nasha Mukt JK Abhiyan Campaign was also held on the occasion.
The programme was attended by the ALC Mamta Sudershan; BDO HQ CDPO Chandan Manhas; ATO Shivalika Shan and other officers and concerned staff of the Handicrafts & Handloom Department.