POONCH, DECEMBER 19: The Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Jammu, in collaboration with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Srinagar, organized a one-day capacity building workshop on packaging and branding under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Scheme at Poonch.
The workshop aimed to bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary market requirements by equipping participants with modern skills and market-oriented knowledge.
Chief Planning Officer Poonch, Shama un Ahmed graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and emphasized the transformative role of effective packaging and branding in converting traditional crafts into sustainable and profitable livelihoods.
The workshop featured comprehensive technical sessions focusing on modern packaging techniques, innovative branding approaches, product presentation, and strategic market positioning.
Expert faculty from NIFT Srinagar shared practical insights aligned with contemporary design sensibilities and evolving national and international market trends, enabling artisans to add value to their products and enhance their commercial viability.
Joginder Mangol Assistant Director Handicraft and Handloom Poonch reiterated the department’s steadfast commitment under the RAMP Scheme to provide institutional support, continuous skill upgradation, and strong market linkages to the artisan community.
He said that such capacity-building initiatives are vital not only for economic empowerment but also for the preservation and promotion of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation from artisans, weavers, and departmental officials and concluded with an interactive session where participants’ queries were effectively addressed. The initiative was widely appreciated as a meaningful step toward empowering artisans and promoting the handicraft and handloom heritage of Jammu & Kashmir through innovation, professionalism, and market-driven skill development.
