09/11/2025
Pashmina Fest 2025- Buyer Seller Meet Opens at Katra, Celebrating Jammu & Kashmir’s Iconic Craft
9–11 November 2025 | Organised by JKTPO
Katra, November 9: The Jammu & Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO) officially kicked off the Pashmina Fest 2025 today in the beautiful temple town of Katra. After the successful launch of 02 major events — the Gandhi Shilp Bazar at Kashmir Haat, Srinagar, and the GI Fair Buyer-Seller Meet at Budgam — the JKTPO has announced another distinctive initiative the Buyer-Seller Meet “Pashmina Fest 2025.” This three-day event will take place from November 09-11, 2025, in Katra, Reasi, celebrating the timeless elegance and craftsmanship of Jammu and Kashmir’s world-renowned Pashmina.
Organized by the JKTPO and sponsored by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, under the National Handicraft Development Programme (NHDP), the event is part of the ongoing efforts to support and revitalize Jammu and Kashmir’s rich handicraft heritage. It aims to showcase the finest Geographical Indication (GI)-certified Pashmina products from the region and highlight the exceptional skills of artisans and craft enterprises, celebrating the timeless legacy of Pashmina craftsmanship.
With this fest, JKTPO seeks to facilitate structured B2B interactions and provide local artisans with direct market access. Featuring Basohli Pashmina from Kathua district and Pashmina from Srinagar, both recognised as authentic GI-certified products, the fest highlights their cultural significance, heritage value, and artisanal excellence. This much-anticipated event is expected to give a substantial boost to the region’s textile and handicrafts sector, offering a dynamic platform for artisans, entrepreneurs, and exporters to connect with esteemed national buyers.
The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Worthy Commissioner/ Secretary to the Government, Industries & Commerce Department Shri Vikramjit Singh. The Managing Director, JKTPO Sh. Sudarshan Kumar welcomed Commissioner/ Secretary, Industries & Commerce Department and expressed heartfelt gratitude for his valuable time and engaging discussion with the participating Buyers and artisans.
During his visit, the Commissioner Secretary interacted with both buyers and artisans, appreciating their efforts and expressing strong support for the initiative. He emphasized that the festival holds immense significance in strengthening the livelihoods of local artisans, enhancing their visibility, and expanding their market linkages at the national level. He also commended JKTPO’s sustained efforts in promoting Jammu & Kashmir’s rich craft heritage through such dedicated platforms.
Ms. Nidhi Malik (IAS) Deputy Commissioner Reasi, was also present at the occasion and appreciated the efforts of JKTPO for the successful launch of this commendable initiative that celebrates the rich cultural legacy and the pride of our region — the exquisite Pashmina.
This three-day festival is set to highlight the intricate artistry, cultural heritage, and traditional craftsmanship associated with authentic GI-tagged Pashmina. The event not only provides artisans an opportunity to showcase their exquisite creations but also serves as a vital bridge connecting them with reputed buyers, exporters, and design houses from across India.
The festival aims to promote authentic GI-tagged Pashmina and foster B2B linkages between over 40+ reputed national buyers from across India — including New Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, and West Bengal — and 50 Pashmina artisan groups from Jammu and Kashmir. It also seeks to position Katra as an emerging hub for craft and cultural tourism.
Through Pashmina Fest 2025, the Jammu & Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO) reaffirms its commitment to preserving, promoting, and modernising the region’s craft heritage. By bringing together artisans, designers, buyers, and industry leaders, the event aims to foster collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, ensuring that the traditional techniques and cultural significance of Pashmina weaving continue to flourish in the contemporary marketplace.
