Srinagar earns “World Craft City” title by World Crafts Council

SRINAGAR: The summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, has been officially recognized as a ‘World Craft City’ by the World Crafts Council, an official spokesperson announced. This prestigious recognition is expected to significantly boost the handloom and handicraft sector, benefiting tourism and infrastructure development.

“This prestigious honour underscores the city’s rich heritage and the exceptional skills of its artisans whose dedication and artistry have earned global acclaim,” the spokesperson stated Sunday evening.

Inaugurated J&K Trade Show 2024 attended by artisans, weavers, growers and business entrepreneurs to promote the diverse sectors of handicrafts, handloom, agriculture and horticulture. This event reflects that J&K has ushered in an era of opportunities. pic.twitter.com/dyW94WxV3A

— Office of LG J&K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) June 21, 2024

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said the recognition is a testament to the hard work and exceptional talent of artisans and highlights the cultural richness of Srinagar. “We are committed to supporting our artisans and ensuring that this accolade translates into tangible benefits for the community,” he said. Mr Sinha noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has shown steadfast support for Jammu and Kashmir’s handicraft and handloom sector.

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The recognition as a ‘World Craft City’ will have a transformative impact on the handloom and handicraft sector, fostering growth, sustainability, and innovation. With increased global recognition, Srinagar’s crafts will gain enhanced visibility on the international stage, opening up new markets and opportunities for artisans, the spokesperson explained.

The sector is likely to attract greater investment and funding, aiding in infrastructure development and introducing modern techniques while preserving traditional methods, he said. “Artisans will have access to advanced training programs and workshops, further honing their skills and fostering innovation in their craft. The increase in demand for Srinagar’s unique crafts is expected to boost production, leading to job creation and improved livelihoods for artisans and their families,” he elaborated.

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Tourism in Srinagar is also set to benefit significantly from this recognition. The city is expected to attract more tourists interested in its cultural and craft heritage, offering immersive experiences of the vibrant artisan communities, the spokesperson remarked. He added that the city’s cultural and craft heritage will draw tourists seeking authentic experiences, including visits to artisan workshops and cultural events showcasing Srinagar’s vibrant crafts.

While speaking to The New Indian, Director of Handlooms and Handicrafts Kashmir Mahmood Shah said, “It is a tribute to the generations of unsung artisans of Kashmir and it will go a long way in promoting this place as an international craft destination.”

He said, “This comes on the heels of Srinagar city being declared a UNESCO Creative City for Craft in 2021. So we have the distinction of not only being recognized as a UNESCO Creative City for Craft but also being acknowledged by the World Crafts Council as a World Craft City. It’s a testament to the incredible skills that have flourished in the valley.”

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The Director noted, “We had applied for World Craft City status in 2021. The J&K Government then requested the team to visit here. A three-member team inspected numerous handicraft spaces in Srinagar. The event could not be publicized due to the code of conduct in place.”

He explained, “After the committee returned and submitted their recommendations, the most important factor was our strong submissions for textiles. They accord cities based on their strength in a particular craft. When the team came here, they found that both our textile and non-textile sectors are very strong, leading to our recognition as a craft city for both textile and non-textile sectors,” added the Director.