ASSOCHAM J&K Chairman Manik Batra Meets Textile Secretary

Srinagar, September 9: Mr. Manik Batra, Chairman of ASSOCHAM J&K Council met Ms. Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, to represent the trade and industry issues of the textile sector in Srinagar. The Secretary was holding this Industry meet along with the Commissioner/Secretary, Industries & Commerce Department, Government of J&K.

ASSOCHAM Chair Mr Batra strongly advocated for new initiatives to give the necessary boost for the Jammu & Kashmir’s handicrafts and textile sector. Welcoming the recently negotiated UK–India Free Trade Agreement and such bilateral efforts by Government of India that opened new opportunities, he suggested that the buyer–seller meets be organized in collaboration with the UK Embassy to directly connect J&K artisans with international buyers, particularly in pashmina, carpets, and papier-mâché.

Mr. Batra also recommended upgrading the Craft Development Institute (CDI) in Srinagar into a Centre of Excellence for design, training, and branding. This shall support product innovation, certification, and international positioning of Kashmiri handicrafts. He highlighted that artisans and exporters continue to face challenges in accessing affordable finance and called for low-interest loans, export credit support, and credit guarantees to enable small weavers and craftsmen to meet export orders smoothly.

ASSOCHAM J&K Chairman further suggested that a dedicated Trade Facilitation Centre be set up in J&K to streamline documentation, logistics, quality certification, and buyer linkages, thereby reducing delays and costs for exporters. Stressing the importance of better connectivity, he added that the Jammu Dry Port should be fully integrated with the export ecosystem to provide customs clearance, warehousing, and faster shipment routes, which will significantly bring down logistics expenses for exporters from the Valley.

Mr. Batra said, “Jammu & Kashmir’s handicrafts and textiles are world-famous for their quality and uniqueness. With proper support in finance, infrastructure, and international marketing, our artisans can achieve remarkable growth. ASSOCHAM J&K Council will continue to work with the government to strengthen this vital sector and ensure it reaches global markets more effectively.”