Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today delivered the keynote address at the “Jammu & Kashmir Textile Sourcing Fair 2024” via virtual mode, celebrating the rich textile heritage of Jammu and Kashmir and emphasizing the increasing market access and export opportunities for the region’s artisans and local manufacturers.
The Jammu & Kashmir Textile Sourcing Fair, organized by the Department of Industries & Commerce, J&K Trade Promotion Organization (JKTPO), and the Handloom Export Promotion Council, took place at SKUAST Kashmir and witnessed the participation of national and international buyers, exporters, and importers. The event provided a platform for B2B meetings, exhibitions, and workshops aimed at promoting the region’s unique textile products and connecting stakeholders with global markets.
Keynote Address by the Lieutenant Governor
During his address, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted the fair’s role in bringing together buyers from across India and abroad, creating valuable opportunities for artisans, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs in the region. He lauded the fair for making significant contributions to the growth of the textile industry in Jammu and Kashmir.
“The Jammu & Kashmir Textile Sourcing Fair has now become a significant gathering point for buyers from around the world. It is contributing immensely to the growth of the textile sector, benefiting local artisans and manufacturers, and providing a platform for the export of our rich textile products,” said Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
He further emphasized the impressive growth achieved by the sector over the last 50 months, noting that Jammu and Kashmir’s textile sector, while celebrating the region’s rich traditions, has achieved notable progress and is on the path to even greater expansion through innovative initiatives.
“A resurgence of the textile sector is underway in Jammu & Kashmir. We are committed to taking this sector further, with new policies and initiatives that will ensure sustained growth and increased global presence for our textiles,” Sinha said.
Government Support and Infrastructure Development
The Lieutenant Governor spoke about the government’s reform-oriented policies, which have been designed to support the craft industry, provide financial assistance, and offer skill training to artisans. He stressed that the region’s unique cultural and artistic heritage makes it globally competitive.
“The textile traditions of Jammu & Kashmir are the pride of India. The intricate designs, exquisite craftsmanship, and subtle shades of our textile products are unmatched. Our artisans have demonstrated to the world that our artistic heritage not only embodies excellence but also maintains sustained excellence in creativity and innovation,” Sinha remarked.
He also pointed to the significant efforts made by the government in developing the necessary infrastructure and providing financial assistance to the sector. The focus, he said, is on fostering skill development to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of the textile industry.
Promoting J&K’s Textile Products Globally
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor urged national and international buyers to actively engage in promoting Jammu and Kashmir’s unique textile products. He emphasized that such partnerships are crucial in ensuring the access of J&K’s talented artisans to new markets, both within India and internationally.
“We have great opportunities to work together, and we must build upon the tradition of our cooperation. Let us elevate our productive partnerships to new heights,” Sinha appealed to the buyers and stakeholders present.
Fair Highlights
The Jammu & Kashmir Textile Sourcing Fair 2024 offered a platform for B2B meetings, exhibitions, and workshops where participants could engage in direct interactions with potential buyers, update stakeholders on the latest market trends, and enhance their skills. The event also aimed at educating participants about new opportunities in the textile sector, especially in terms of market access and global networking.
Key dignitaries present at the event included Prof. Nazir A. Ganai, Vice Chancellor of SKUAST Kashmir, Saurabh Bhagat, Commissioner/Secretary of the Science & Technology Department, Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner/Secretary of the Industries & Commerce Department, Vijay Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Khalid Jahangir, Managing Director of JKTPO, along with senior officials, artisans, entrepreneurs, and various stakeholders from the textile industry.
Conclusion
The Jammu & Kashmir Textile Sourcing Fair 2024 marked a significant milestone in the region’s efforts to promote its textile industry globally. The event not only showcased the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Jammu and Kashmir but also opened new avenues for export opportunities and collaboration between local artisans and international markets.
As the fair concluded, the region’s textile sector emerged stronger, with renewed enthusiasm and opportunities for growth, underpinned by the government’s continued support and commitment to innovation and market expansion
