SRINAGAR, DEC 20: In a pioneering move, Jammu and Kashmir has become the first Union Territory/State in India to implement QR-based labels for all its crafts. The government’s initiative aims to safeguard the authenticity of its renowned Pashmina shawls and hand-woven carpets.
Over the past two years, the government has granted Geographical Indication (GI) tags to 20,000 Pashmina shawls and 9,000 carpets. These tags signify the products’ specific geographical origin, ensuring they possess unique qualities associated with that region.
The introduction of QR-based labels not only ensures product authenticity but also promotes local craftsmanship. This innovative approach has significantly contributed to boosting exports of Pashmina and carpets, amounting to handicrafts worth Rs 4,740 crore in the last four years.
Looking ahead, the government is actively working on an export strategy for Pashmina, Carpets, Paper Machie, Walnut, and Sozni. The goal is to double exports in the next five years, with a memorandum of understanding already signed with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) for contemporary design and packaging.
The GI tagging initiative has not only provided greater recognition and protection to Jammu and Kashmir’s handicrafts but has also significantly boosted the local economy. The handicrafts department is now formulating comprehensive strategies, including nationwide exhibitions and multi-medium promotions, to further increase production and global sales of Kashmiri handicrafts.
