Fake handicrafts pose threat to Sgr’s ‘World Craft City’ status

Srinagar, Aug 15: Despise Srinagar’s recognition as a “World Craft City”, the sale of fake handicrafts continues to pose a significant threat to the valley’s 600-year-old art tradition.
Industry insiders express deep concern that if the issue is not addressed, it could lead to the collapse of the craft industry, jeopardizing the livelihoods of thousands of people.
Those associated with the industry for decades stated that the government needs to take strict action against those threatening the industry. “They should be held accountable, and regular inspections should be conducted at shops dealing with handicrafts. Kashmir is known for its craftsmanship, and such vested interests pose a large-scale threat to the industry,” added those involved in handicrafts.
Javid Tenga, President of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCC&I), voiced his alarm over the proliferation of machine-made handicrafts being passed off as authentic. “There should be no restrictions on selling machine-made items, but they must be clearly labelled as such. Deceiving customers not only damages our reputation but endangers the entire industry,” Tenga said. He warned that the persistence of this issue could lead to the collapse of the craft industry, which supports around 600,000 people directly or indirectly. He also mentioned that they have decided to form teams to check markets and curb this illegal activity.
Weavers also expressed concern, stating that their livelihoods are at stake and that if this menace is not stopped now, the industry will disappear in the coming years. This would result in Kashmir losing centuries-old art due to the government’s lack of attention. They called for strict action to address this pressing concern.
Director Handicrafts & Handloom Kashmir Mahmood Ahmad Shah raised concerns after conducting inspections from July 9 to 11 across key areas, including the Srinagar-Gulmarg and Srinagar-Pahalgam roads. “In some cases, we found machine-made materials being passed off as handmade by using tassels to mimic the traditional look. We have seized these items and initiated strict action,” he stated. The Director emphasized that the government is keen on addressing this pressing issue, recognizing the obligation to preserve the centuries-old craft.
In one recent case, a tourist was sold a machine-made shawl for over two lakh rupees under the guise of it being handmade. An investigation revealed that the seller was involved in importing such items from Iran and Turkey. The authorities have since seized the shawl and are pursuing further action.
Ashiq Sheikh, Director of Ferozson Exports Private Limited and former KCC&I president, highlighted the urgency of the situation. He urged the government to act swiftly and conduct regular inspections to protect Kashmir’s rich craft heritage.