13/04/2026
**DC Kishtwar Inaugurates 05 Days Handicrafts & Handloom Expo Showcasing Local Heritage in Kishtwar**
Kishtwar, April 13, 2026
The Department of Handicrafts & Handloom, Kishtwar, today kick started a vibrant 05 Day Handicrafts & Handloom Expo under the RR Plan of HEPPs, with the theme *“Come Explore – Local products are waiting; your purchase keeps heritage alive”*, at the historic Chowgan Ground, Kishtwar.
The event was inaugurated by the Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar, Shri Pankaj Kumar Sharma (JKAS), who was the Chief Guest on the occasion.
The CEO, KDA Kishtwar, Shri Kaiser Bhawani (JKAS), was the Guest of Honour, and the ACD Kishtwar, Shri Manoj Kumar (JKAS), was the Special Guest.
The programme commenced with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, stall visits, and lamp lighting by the Deputy Commissioner, Shri Pankaj Kumar Sharma (JKAS).
The programme was followed by a welcome speech from the AD, Handicrafts & Handloom Kishtwar, Shri Pardeep Shan (JKAS).
Artisans and trainees showcased their skills through live demonstrations, along with brief presentations highlighting the rich tradition and craftsmanship of the region.
Key highlights included live demonstrations of local crafts performed by the weavers and artisans of Kishtwar.
This interactive session allowed visitors and dignitaries to witness traditional techniques firsthand, including the languishing craft of weaving, wheat straw art, crochet and knitting work, crewel and Sozni embroidery, and tailoring. Pottery was also displayed.
The Deputy Commissioner, while addressing the participants, lauded the efforts of the Department of Handicrafts & Handloom for organizing an outstanding programme, highlighting the success of the training initiatives under the Rehabilitation & Resettlement (R&R) program.
The DC noted that the trainees, who had received training and toolkits in various trades such as cutting, tailoring, embroidery, and others, had exhibited commendable progress.
He emphasized that the results witnessed today—through the display of different types of crafts—are a testament to the program's effectiveness.
The DC also praised the initiative to invite artisans from Doda, pointing out the significance of cross-regional collaboration. He encouraged the exchange of ideas, suggesting that artisans could learn from each other’s work and integrate new innovations into their craft.
Noting the differences in pottery between Kishtwar and Doda, he mentioned that while Kishtwar pottery is of a coarse type, Doda’s pottery is refined and polished.
The DC said that Kishtwar artisans should adopt some helpful techniques from the artisans of Doda, which could further enhance the quality of their products.
In addition, the DC expressed confidence in the excellence of local crafts of the district, such as Jute, Wool, and other products, stating that they are second to none.
He also commended the work of the Assistant Director of Handicrafts & Handloom Kishtwar for his efforts in promoting local crafts and revitalizing the Handicraft Department, and he acknowledged that such programmes will continue in the future.
The DC highlighted the crucial role of market linkages for the trained artisans, noting that the District Employment and Counseling Centre Kishtwar could play a vital role in helping the new artisans establish their businesses through financial support, such as that provided under Mission Yuva.
This would enable them to sell their products both online and offline, contributing to their financial independence and livelihood.
The DC concluded by emphasizing the importance of preserving local culture and crafts. He pointed out that many households are reviving traditional items such as old lanterns and wheat straw artifacts, and he stressed the need to continue promoting these cultural treasures.
With the support of the UT Government of J&K and the Central Government—through financial, market, and skill generation assistance—he believes that, together, efforts can be made to safeguard and advance the region's rich cultural heritage.
The DC distributed departmental registration cards to instructors and trainees from various centres across Sounder, Loharna, Bhagna, Lopara, Trigam, Kandani, Agral, Galhar-Bhatta, and Padhyarna, all completed under the R&R Plan.
The DC also distributed a registration certificate to the newly registered Jai Shripal Cutting & Tailoring Handloom Industrial Cooperative, Bera Bhatta, Kishtwar.
Artisans who have contributed to the preservation and promotion of traditional crafts were felicitated by the DC for their contributions.
Shri Gowhar Ahmed, AHTO Handicrafts, Kishtwar, delivered the vote of thanks on the occasion.
The Expo served as a platform to celebrate local craftsmanship, empower artisans, and encourage the community to support traditional industries.
The Expo will conclude on April 17, 2026, and the Deputy Commissioner has urged the public to attend the mela in large numbers to extend their support to the local handloom and handicrafts industry of the district.
An awareness session for the visitors and artisans on the 100 Days Nasha Mukt JK Abhiyan Campaign was also held on the occasion.
The Department reaffirmed its commitment to preserving heritage while promoting economic opportunities through handicrafts and handloom.
The programme was attended by the ALC Kishtwar, Smt. Mamta Sudershan (JKAS); BDO HQ CDPO Kishtwar, Smt. Chandan Manhas (JKAS); ATO Kishtwar, Smt. Shivalika Shan (JKAS); and other officers and concerned staff of the Handicrafts & Handloom Department, Kishtwar.
