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Kashmiri Handicrafts Revive as Exports Cross Rs 1,100 Crore
Kashmir’s handicraft industry is showing signs of recovery after difficult years.
Its exports have crossed Rs 1,100 crore.
The government wants exports to reach Rs 2,000 crore.
The industry supports about 4.45 lakh artisans and craftspeople.
Woollen shawls and carpets make up large parts of the reported exports.
The government is supporting training, better designs and access to markets.
It is also promoting crafts with special tags that help identify where products come from.
These steps may help artisans find more buyers in India and other countries.
Kashmiri handicraft exports have crossed Rs 1,100 crore, according to a report citing the Jammu and Kashmir Economic Survey 2025-26.
The Jammu and Kashmir government has set a Rs 2,000-crore export target and plans support for marketing, design, infrastructure and skills.
Handicrafts and handloom support about 4.45 lakh artisans and craftsmen in the Union Territory.
Woollen shawls account for Rs 477.25 crore in exports, while carpets account for Rs 317 crore.
Government initiatives cited include training about 11,000 carpet weavers in 2025 and establishing a Handicrafts Quality Control Council in April 2026.
- Who
- Kashmiri artisans and craftspeople, with support from the Jammu and Kashmir government.
- What
- Handicraft exports have crossed Rs 1,100 crore, and the government has set a Rs 2,000-crore export target.
- Where
- Jammu and Kashmir, with international markets including Dubai, London, Singapore, Paris, New York, Milan and Tokyo being explored.
- When
- The report cites the Jammu and Kashmir Economic Survey 2025-26, training in 2025, and a council formed in April 2026.
- Why
- To revive the sector, support artisans, protect traditional crafts and expand access to markets.
Key facts
- Current exports
- More than Rs 1,100 crore
- Government export target
- Rs 2,000 crore
- Artisans and craftspeople supported
- About 4.45 lakh
- Woollen shawl exports
- Rs 477.25 crore
- Carpet exports
- Rs 317 crore
- Carpet weaving training
- About 11,000 people trained in 2025
- Quality Council
- Handicrafts Quality Control Council constituted in April 2026
Quotes
A senior official in the Jammu and Kashmir Industries Department
An official in the Jammu and Kashmir Industries Department
“Kashmiri artisans now have a direct pathway to bulk buyers and high-end export markets by combining traditional craftsmanship with better materials, contemporary design, quality certification, and access to international showrooms. This is helping transform centuries-old craftsmanship into globally competitive products while preserving the skills, stories, and cultural heritage”
thehansindia.com
“Of late, the Jammu and Kashmir government has also started giving a global push to the sector, setting out a target to expand handicraft exports, modernise traditional crafts, improve artisans’ skills, strengthen market access, and promote GI-certified products globally”
thehansindia.com
Sources
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