The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) marked a significant milestone today at the India International Trade Fair (IITF), Pragati Maidan, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s visit to its extensive handicrafts exhibition, which featured 22 specialised stalls.
The exhibition represents KCCI’s largest-ever participation in IITF, demonstrating the Chamber’s commitment to revitalizing Kashmir’s traditional handicrafts sector.
During the visit, KCCI President Javid Tenga led crucial discussions with the Chief Minister regarding the pressing challenges in handicrafts marketing. “We had a productive dialogue with the Chief Minister about the urgent need for enhanced marketing strategies for our handicrafts sector,” Tenga stated.
“Our discussions focused specifically on securing greater participation opportunities in national and international trade fairs, which are vital platforms for showcasing Kashmir’s craftsmanship to global buyers.”
“The handicrafts industry has faced significant challenges in recent years, We presented to the Chief Minister a comprehensive plan for revitalizing our marketing approach, emphasizing that regular participation in prestigious trade fairs is crucial for sector revival. We requested his intervention to ensure our artisans and exporters get more opportunities to display their products at renowned national and international exhibitions.”
The KCCI exhibition showcases Kashmir’s finest handicrafts, including internationally renowned Pashmina shawls, GI-tagged traditional crafts, exquisite Sozni embroidery, premium Kashmir saffron, hand-knotted carpets, and traditional Kashmiri woodcarving.
“Today’s exhibition demonstrates KCCI’s commitment to preserving and promoting our cultural heritage,” Tenga added. “The Chief Minister’s response to our marketing proposals was encouraging, and he assured us of government support in expanding our presence at global trade forums. His visit has given our artisans and exporters renewed hope for the future.”
The KCCI leadership presented detailed proposals for marketing initiatives, including a calendar of international trade fairs where Kashmir’s handicrafts could be showcased effectively. The Chamber emphasised the need for consistent participation in major trade events across different global markets to establish stronger international trade connections.
The Chamber’s current exhibition at IITF has already attracted significant attention from buyers and trade visitors.
“The Chamber will continue its efforts to secure more opportunities for our members at prestigious national and international exhibitions,” Tenga concluded. “We are committed to working closely with the government to ensure that Kashmir’s rich handicraft tradition not only survives but thrives in the modern market.”
