Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 14: Minister for Industries and Commerce, S. S. Slathia has called for showcasing State’s handloom products and handicrafts in the world market in a big way adding that these artifacts have ancient origin and have enjoyed royal and aristocratic patronage.
Speaking after flagging off a group of 35 weavers from various handloom clusters of the State to Ranchi and Jharkhand on Awareness-cum- Exposure visit this morning, Mr. Slathia said that handloom products and handicrafts of the State are fascinating and are in high demand, with mass customers base in the world market. There are intricate in designs and softest of the stuff. Mr. Slathia added that need of the hour is to capture this huge customer base by exploring modern marketing channels including net-marketing..
The event was organized by J&K Handloom Department under the aegis of Development Commissioner, Handloom, Union Ministry of Textiles, and Government of India.
Mr. Slathia said that the Coalition Govt under the leadership of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah was committed for promotion and preservation of traditional crafts of the State.
He said that exposure visits the weavers have been tailored to acquaint them about the modern marketing trends and changing customers choice.
Mr. Slathia asked the artisans to avail the incentives and packages being provided to them by the Central and the State Governments optimally, adding that Government has planned to replace all the traditional looms with modern looms. Such 500 looms have already been distributed free of cost and further 500 looms will be distributed shortly.
The Director Handloom, Daulat Ram, in his welcome address said that the group of 35 Handloom weavers will visit Ranchi, Jharkhand to have on the spot assessment of the latest weaving techniques and changing market trends. He said, earlier in November, 2010, a group of Handloom weavers were sent to Chanderi, MP.
The Additional Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Khurshid Ahmad and Jt. Director, Handloom Department were also present on the occasion.
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