Despite facing hurdles due to global conflicts, exports of Kashmir’s renowned handicrafts and handloom products have touched ₹2,567 crore over the past two and a half financial years. Officials anticipate the total exports to reach ₹3,000 crore by the end of the current fiscal year.
According to figures from the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, shawls—including the celebrated Kani and Sozni varieties—have led the export market, generating ₹1,105 crore in revenue, while hand-knotted carpets have accounted for ₹728 crore. Other notable exports include crewel embroidery, papier mâché, chain stitch work, and wood carving.
To support artisans and exporters, the government has introduced financial incentives, including a subsidy scheme that reimburses up to 10% of total export value, capped at ₹5 crore per exporter. Authorities are also enhancing the quality assurance process for Kashmir’s hand-made products. Strengthening testing facilities, particularly at the Pashmina Testing and Quality Certification Centre (PTQCC) and the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT), aims to combat counterfeit sales by improving QR coding and certification mechanisms.
Efforts to train and financially support artisans continue, with 17,182 women having received training at 432 centers in the past four years. The government has also disbursed ₹36.27 crore in stipends under various schemes designed to preserve and promote Kashmir’s traditional crafts.
In line with modernization efforts, 100 weavers have been selected for free distribution of upgraded steel carpet looms under the National Wool Policy, with plans to expand the initiative further next year. Meanwhile, authorities are working to expedite testing and certification for GI-tagged crafts like Sozni, Kani, papier mâché, and walnut wood carving.