Handicrafts goods worth over Rs 30k cr exported in 2022-23: EPCH

Srinagar, June 10: The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) organized an awareness seminar in Srinagar, titled “Trends & Forecast for Autumn Winter 24/25” aimed to provide valuable insights to exporters and officials in the handicrafts industry.
Arshad Mir, Member COA-EPCH & Chairman of the Handicrafts & Carpet Sector Skill Council, welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of keeping up with evolving design trends in the world of handicrafts, carpets, and textiles. He encouraged exporters to focus on design and continuously strive to develop new products to meet changing consumer preferences.
Additional Executive Director of EPCH, Rajesh Rawat, discussed the inspiration drawn from nature and the incorporation of organic and nature-inspired designs into product ranges. He highlighted the need for designs that evoke a connection with nature and provide a refreshing escape from the fast-paced modern lifestyle. Rawat also shared the journey of EPCH and the organization’s initiatives over the past 35 years.
According to R. K. Verma, Executive Director of EPCH, the handicrafts exports during the year 2022-23 amounted to Rs. 30,019.24 Crores (approximately USD 3,728.47 Million).
The Head Designer at EPCH, Amla Shrivastava, presented the autumn/winter 24/25 trends. She emphasized that minimalism and simplicity have become prominent features of contemporary design. Botanical trends, clean lines, and bright color palettes create an understated elegance that appeals to customers seeking tranquility in their spaces. Shrivastava also highlighted the importance of transforming traditional crafts by contemporizing their style, patterns, and silhouettes.
During the seminar, participants had the opportunity to ask questions related to design, product development, and marketing. The speakers addressed these questions and provided valuable solutions to the exporters. The seminar concluded with positive interactions between the members and exporters.
EPCH serves as the nodal agency for promoting handicraft exports from the country and aims to create a brand image for the talented artisans and craftspeople engaged in the production of home decor, textiles, furniture, fashion jewelry, and accessories.
The seminar provided a platform for exporters to gain insights into emerging trends and enhance their understanding of design, product development, and marketing strategies. It also highlighted the significant contribution of handicrafts to the country’s economy and the importance of promoting and preserving traditional crafts.