The World Crafts Council has officially recognised Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, as a ‘World Craft City’, an official spokesperson announced on Sunday. This accolade is expected to significantly enhance the handloom and handicraft sector, benefiting tourism and infrastructure development in the region.
The spokesperson said the recognition highlighted Srinagar’s rich heritage and the remarkable skills of its artisans, whose dedication and artistry have garnered global recognition, PTI reported.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the report added, called the recognition a testament to the artisans’ hard work and exceptional talent, underscoring the cultural richness of Srinagar. “We are committed to supporting our artisans and ensuring that this accolade brings tangible benefits to the community,” he said.
Sinha also sought to acknowledge Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “steadfast support” for Jammu and Kashmir’s handicraft and handloom sector, PTI reported.
Impact Of The Recognition On Srinagar
The World Crafts Council AISBL (WCC-International) is an international non-profit dedicated to fostering the preservation, promotion, and advancement of global craftsmanship and traditional crafts.
Founded in 1964, it has been affiliated with UNESCO under ‘consultative status (official partnership)’ for many years. Its founders include social reformer Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, apart from Aileen Osborn Vanderbilt Webb and Margaret M. Patch.
Srinagar’s designation as a ‘World Craft City’ is expected to transform the handloom and handicraft sector, fostering growth, sustainability, and innovation. The increased global recognition will enhance the visibility of Srinagar’s crafts on the international stage, opening new markets and opportunities for artisans, the spokesperson said.
The recognition is likely to attract more investment and funding, which will aid in infrastructure development and the introduction of modern techniques while preserving traditional methods, the spokesperson was quoted as saying by PTI.
Artisans will gain access to advanced training programmes and workshops, which will further hone their skills and foster innovation, the spokesperson said, adding that the anticipated increase in demand for Srinagar’s unique crafts is expected to boost production, create jobs, and improve the livelihoods of artisans and their families.
The spokesperson also said that tourism in Srinagar will benefit significantly from this recognition as well.
The region is expected to attract more tourists interested in its cultural and craft heritage through offers of immersive experiences with vibrant artisan communities. Visitors will have opportunities to explore artisan workshops and attend cultural events showcasing Srinagar’s rich crafts heritage, PTI reported the spokesperson as saying.