Chairman/Chief Executive Councilor, LAHDC, Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon inaugurated the 4-day Winter Handloom Product Exhibition at the Handloom Department on December 1. 

CEC Kargil commended the Handloom department for orchestrating the winter exhibition session for artisans. He expressed that such platforms play a crucial role in showcasing their products.

He mentioned that the showcased products will be featured at various tourist destinations, including hotels, restaurants, outlets, showrooms, and other locations. This initiative aims to make these products known to people beyond Kargil. In this regard, he highlighted that a meeting will be convened with all stakeholders associated with tourism.

CEC Dr Jaffer emphasized the pivotal role played by the Handloom Department in income generation, particularly benefiting women. He reiterated LAHDC Kargil's commitment to strengthening the department and announced plans to allocate a budget for the Handloom Department in the upcoming financial year.

Further, he expressed concern about the closure of centers in rural areas, citing various reasons. He assured to look into it thoroughly and pledged efforts to bring those centers back on track and commended the quality of products crafted by the artisans and offered advice, suggesting they further refine the finishing of their creations.

DC Kargil emphasized the importance of maximizing the benefits of various government welfare schemes. He mentioned the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, designed to offer comprehensive support to small businesses, traditional artisans, and craftsmen. The scheme aims to assist them in enhancing the scale of their traditional products and services.

He instructed District Superintendent Kargil to organize a one-day awareness program for artisans to disseminate information about the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, ensuring that artisans are well-informed about the scheme and its potential benefits.

Deputy Commissioner assured that demands such as an increase in the honorarium of artisans, the transfer of an additional building near the Handloom Department, and other related issues would be carefully examined. Efforts will be made to address and resolve these matters at the earliest.

Later, prizes were distributed among artisans who demonstrated exceptional performance during the Handloom Day celebration in the district.