Jehlum Post News|Jammu| Jan 9, 2014| Sajad Ahmad Kichloo Minister of State for Industries & Commerce Thursday said that all the required measures will be taken for protection and promotion of handicrafts industry in the state. He said strict action will be taken against those dealers, who are indulging in sale of fake handicrafts and handloom goods in the name of Kashmiri handicrafts. Interacting with a group of weavers, Artisans and

crafts persons  today, Kichloo said no body will be allowed to defame states reputed crafts and artefacts by selling fake(Amritsari goods) on the name of Kashmiri handicrafts and handlooms.The members of the Artisan delegation brought into the notice of the Minister the matter regarding sale of fake (Amritsar made) handicraft & handloom goods in the market thereby cheating not only customers and tourists visiting J&K but the people outside the state also. Expressing their concern, the craftsmen said that this practice was bringing disrepute to the genuine crafts of the state and should be curbed with iron hand.The Minister assured the delegation that law enforcement wings in Handicrafts, Handloom and Tourism departments will be further reactivated to crack whip on all such unscrupulous traders and vendors found indulging in this illegal practice. He said vigil against such unscrupulous traders and vendors will be intensified and fake stocks wherever detected, shall be confiscated besides initiating action against them. Briefing the delegation about the initiatives taken by the Government to protect handicraft and handloom Industry, Kichloo said that Geographic Index has already been registered for Kashmiri Pashmina, Sozni Embroidery Kani Shawl, Paper Machie, Wood Carving & Khatamband adding that Pashmina Testing Lab has also been set up to provide hallmarking of genuine handmade Pashmina goods. He said 8000 modern looms are being distributed among genuine weavers free of cost during current fiscal to replace traditional looms.
          A deputation of Padder, Nagsani, Kishtwar and Bhalesa led by Mr. Miraj-ud-Din Zargar also called on the Minister and put forth their individual and collective demands. They apprised the Minister about various problems confronting people of these areas. Responding to the demands, Mr. Kichloo said that extraction of world famous Sapphire (Neelam) in Paddar is expected to be started from May this year adding that global trader for purpose have been floated already. He said concerned engineers have been asked to conduct a comprehensive survey for construction of road network in hitherto unconnected and remote areas. He said work on Hydro Electric Power Projects on River Chenab, including Karthai, Keero, Kawar and Pukhal Dul shall be executed, which on completion will change overall socio-economic scenario in the Chenab Valley.

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