Says Srinagar becomes fourth Indian city to receive ‘World Craft City’ title
Recognition honors 5000-Year old Indian civilization
Financial viability key for J&K craftspeople
UT prioritizes youth training in traditional crafts
Lauds people & artisans on receiving the prestigious title
Srinagar, July 31: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today addressed the Certificate Award Ceremony marking Srinagar’s recognition as a ‘World Craft City’ by the World Crafts Council (WCC). Srinagar is the fourth city in India to receive this prestigious title.
The ceremony was attended by World Crafts Council President Sa’ad Hani Al-Qaddumi and other prominent Council members. Lt Governor Sinha congratulated the people, artisans, craftspeople, and stakeholder departments on this significant occasion.
“Truly delighted to see Srinagar being awarded the certificate of ‘World Craft City’ by the World Crafts Council. It’s a great honour for this ancient city, known for its priceless cultural and artistic heritage. This recognition will go a long way in preserving and promoting J&K’s crafts and craftsmanship,” Sinha stated.
He also praised the World Crafts Council for its efforts to inspire and promote the artistic traditions of cities worldwide. “J&K is proud to have an inclusive cultural ecosystem that has always inspired weavers and craftspeople. Honouring Srinagar also honours the 5000-year-old Indian civilization that has kept creative traditions alive and promoted gifted artisans,” he observed.
Expressing his vision, the Lt Governor said, “I want to see Jammu and Srinagar becoming the best art cities in India and the best home for artists and seekers of priceless art.”
He highlighted the UT Administration’s efforts to preserve and promote the unique cultural and artistic heritage of Jammu Kashmir and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for artisans and craftspeople. Sinha reiterated the administration’s commitment to supporting the marketing and exports of handicrafts and handloom products.
The Lt Governor emphasized the importance of training the younger generation of craftspeople to continue this traditional occupation, ensuring their creative products are financially attractive and professionally satisfying.
He commended the Handloom and Handicraft Department and the Industries and Commerce Department for their contributions to J&K’s economy. “I am sure the recognition of Srinagar as a ‘World Craft City’ will provide a new identity to Srinagar in the global market and re-establish craftsmanship as a prestigious occupation,” he said.
WCC President Sa’ad Hani Al-Qaddumi congratulated the J&K Government on Srinagar’s recognition and acknowledged its place among the world’s craft cities. The Lt Governor also released a publication depicting the 60-year journey of the World Crafts Council.
The ceremony saw attendance from Rajeev RaiBhatnagar, Advisor to the Lt Governor; Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce Department; Dr HinaShafiBhat, Vice Chairperson, J&K KVIB; department heads, WCC members, and numerous artisans and craftspeople.
