SRINAGAR, MAY 21: As part of its continued efforts to strengthen the MSME ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir, Department of Handicrafts and Handloom (H&H), Kashmir, successfully organized a one-day capacity building programme under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) initiative.
RAMP is an ambitious flagship scheme of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, supported by the World Bank.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat presided over as the chief guest while officials from District Administration, Directorate of Handicrafts & Handloom, Kashmir and Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) were also present.
Programme witnessed enthusiastic participation of over 100 artisans and craftsmen from district Srinagar, Budgam, and Ganderbal, who benefited from expert sessions and practical insights into product packaging, branding, and market readiness – essential components for expanding their reach into national and international markets.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner highlighted Srinagar’s identity as a historical, cultural, and craft heritage hub and emphasized the need to preserve and promote the region’s centuries-old artisanal traditions through modern means of branding, packaging, and market integration.
He underlined the importance of grassroots awareness about government schemes and expressed satisfaction over the department’s proactive approach in conducting such programmes.
Dr. Bhat also engaged directly with artisans, encouraging open dialogue and collecting valuable feedback to strengthen future initiatives.
He noted, “Srinagar City is a living museum of craft and heritage. Our artisans are the torchbearers of this legacy, and through such programmes, we can ensure they receive the support, training, and exposure they deserve to thrive in a competitive marketplace.”
Subject experts and faculty members from NIFT Srinagar conducted the technical sessions by delivering focused modules on modern branding techniques, design aesthetics, market trends, and sustainable packaging solutions tailored to local crafts.
This event marks a significant step in building institutional capacities, empowering local producers, and creating sustainable livelihoods through the GI/ODOP/DEH framework. The programme also aimed to sensitize stakeholders about the RAMP initiative and create a collaborative environment for MSME development.
The department shall be conducting another one-day capacity building programme on 28th May 2025, with several more in the pipeline across the Union Territory, focusing on artisans and producers working on GI/ODOP/DEH products.
