Weavers, artisans, and craftsmen working in the handloom and handicraft sector of J&K are unique examples of creation and development of designs. They are an inspiration for budding fashion designers in designing and fashion communication.

Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha made these remarks while addressing the first convocation of the National Institute of Fashion Technology, Srinagar through virtual mode.

Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani, Union Minister for Textiles and Women & Child Development was the Chief Guest and Shri Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of State (I/C) for Youth Affairs and Sports was Guest of Honour during the convocation ceremony.

Speaking on the occasion, Smt Irani said that the first batch of NIFT Srinagar has added a golden page in the history of the institution. She inspired the students to be prepared for whatever life has to offer and expressed faith that with the training imparted to them at NIFT, they would be equipped to deal with any tests and hardships that may come their way. The Minister said that the Government of Jammu and Kashmir has recently announced a package of Rs. 28,400 crore as part of the J&K Industrial Development Scheme and urged upon the students to put in their best efforts to reap benefit from it.

Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, during his address, observed that with the revival of art and craft centres, the J&K UT is emerging as a global fashion hub.

J&K contributes to 80% of the country's total exports of woolen shawls. Special attention has been paid to the handicraft and handloom sector in the new Industrial Development Scheme approved by the central government recently. Handholding to local weavers and artisans is being provided for their livelihood generation as well as promotion of old crafts, said the Lt Governor.

Observing that J&K is witnessing the revival of its traditional handicrafts, the Lt Governor said that the artisans are again giving expression to their creativity through their talented eyes and hardworking hands. He called upon the students and faculty of NIFT to connect themselves with maximum craftsmen and artisans, be their voice and enrich their art with the research and expertise of the institute.

Underscoring the UT Government’s measures to promote the local products, the Lt Governor observed that UT Government is working on GI tagging of Kashmiri carpet, wood carving, Namda craft, Phool Kari, Basohli painting,  Tweed fabric, Chikri craft, etc so that these products can be made available in the International Markets.

Speaking on the latest e-commerce initiatives, the Lt Governor said that the Handloom and Handicraft products of J&K have been provided global platforms like Amazon and Flipkart. With sustained efforts, the Handloom and Handicraft Industry of J&K would again reach its pinnacle.

E-commerce marketplaces will provide an appropriate opportunity for the momentous growth and development of the respective sectors. In the coming year, transportation issues would also be addressed as the railway network will connect Kashmir to Kanyakumari, he added.