Jammu, Nov 6: In a major push to preserve Jammu and Kashmir’s rich cultural legacy, the Government has approved the “Chief Minister’s Scheme for Introduction of Heritage Courses” under the Skill Development Department. The initiative aims to revive the region’s traditional crafts and promote sustainable, skill based employment opportunities for the youth.
According to the Chief Minister’s Office, seven traditional craft courses will be launched across 25 training units in Government ITIs and Polytechnics, with a total intake capacity of 500 students. The courses will focus on heritage crafts such as wood carving, papier-mâché, shawl weaving, and other traditional art forms.
Under the scheme, trainees will be provided monthly stipends, while instructors will receive honorariums a move designed to encourage participation and ensure high quality training.
Officials said the program will blend traditional craftsmanship with modern vocational techniques, helping strengthen J&K’s centuries-old artisanal heritage and creating new livelihood opportunities in the process.