Srinagar, May 29: The Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, in collaboration with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Srinagar, today conducted a capacity building programme under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) initiative. Held at the Conference Hall, Kashmir Haat, the event trained over 100 artisans and weavers from across the region in branding and packaging techniques.
Targeted at artisans registered under the Geographical Indication (GI), One District One Product (ODOP), and District Export Hub (DEH) schemes, the programme aimed to enhance their market competitiveness through improved product presentation and brand identity.
Sudershan Kumar, Managing Director of the Jammu & Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO), was the Chief Guest. The event was also attended by Mussarat Islam, Director, Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir; Dr. Monika Gupta, Director, NIFT Srinagar; Zubair Ahmad, Director, IICT; officers from the Handicrafts and Handloom Department; CDI officials; and faculty from NIFT Srinagar.
In his welcome address, Director Mussarat Islam highlighted the department’s ongoing efforts under the RAMP scheme to strengthen the handicrafts and handloom sector. He urged JKTPO to consider waiving exhibition stall fees for department-registered artisans participating in local, national, and international events—a step he said would contribute to their economic upliftment.
