Rs 4.53 cr being spend on development of Handicraft clusters: CEO ERA

Srinagar: Chief Executive Officer J&KERA / JTFRP Dr. Raghav Langer Saturday said consultancy support for the development of Embroidery and Papier Machie crafts are being developed at Noor Bagh and Zadibal at a cost of Rs. 2.39 crores and Rs. 2.18 crores respectively.
The CEO said this during his visit to the handicraft clusters here. The project has been taken up under restoration and strengthening of livelihood component of the World Bank funded Jhelum Tawi Flood Recovery Project and Department of Industries and Commerce is the Project Implementation agency for the component.
Langer was informed that so far comprehensive skill assessment of the artisans skilled in the traditional crafts of Embroidery (crewel, chain-stitch) and Papier Machie has been done and artisan have been categorized according to their level of skill by the consultants. It was revealed that the department now focuses on the upgradation of the skills of the artisans, for which recently a workshop was organized wherein the artisans were imparted latest trainings on product design and color schemes to be adopted while designing a product. It will be followed by providing artisans with improved market linkages with assured supply order worth Rs 3 crores for each to provide them with platforms to participate and exhibit their crafts in major exhibitions. The creation of artisan database and creation civil infrastructure in the handicrafts clusters areas is also included in the overall project.
Later, the CEO ERA / JTFRP also visited Solina Silk Factory wherein Officer was shown various sections of the Filature which has been established way back in 1939. A consultancy services for preserving the heritage value of the unit its landscaping and exploring opportunities for setting up of the Haat in the premises is also being carried out under the project.
Ghulam Qadir, General Manager, Joinery Mill , Pampore , Nodal Officers of JTFRP/ handicrafts department accompanied CEO ERA/JTFRP during the visit.