What New Heritage Courses Has the J&K Government Approved?
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Synopsis
The J&K government has taken a significant step to preserve its rich cultural heritage by approving a scheme to introduce skill-based courses that focus on traditional crafts. This initiative not only aims to revive the art of craftsmanship but also empowers the youth with necessary skills for sustainable livelihoods.
Key Takeaways
- Preservation: The scheme aims to safeguard traditional crafts.
- Empowerment: It provides skill-based training to youth.
- Local support: Instructors are local artisans receiving honorariums.
- Capacity: The program targets 500 students.
- Revival: It seeks to rejuvenate J&K’s rich cultural heritage.
Srinagar, Nov 6 (NationPress) In an effort to safeguard traditional crafts, the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) government has officially sanctioned the scheme proposed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to launch heritage and skill-based livelihood courses within the skill development department.
The Chief Minister’s Office shared on X that the ‘Chief Minister’s Scheme for Introduction of Heritage Courses’ is now approved under the Skill Development Department.
This initiative aims to revitalize seven traditional craft courses across 25 units in Government ITIs and Polytechnics, accommodating up to 500 students while providing stipends for trainees and honoraria for instructors. It’s a vital step towards safeguarding heritage and enhancing skill-based livelihoods in J&K.
The scheme holds significant importance in preserving traditional crafts and promoting sustainable livelihoods in the Union Territory.
Beyond reviving these seven traditional craft courses, the initiative is designed to cultivate interest among families and children of local artisans, who have increasingly veered away from these crafts due to limited opportunities in their family trades.
Experienced traditional artisans can serve as instructors, receiving honorariums while trainees benefit from stipends.
This initiative marks a pivotal advancement toward rejuvenating J&K’s rich heritage, empowering the youth with employable, craft-centered skills.
Kashmir boasts a proud legacy of handicrafts, with products crafted by skilled artisans cherished by craft enthusiasts globally.
However, these traditional crafts have faced challenges in recent decades due to dwindling markets and a shift towards more financially rewarding careers by the younger generation of local artisans.
Signature crafts, including handmade carpets, shawls, papier-mâché items, embroidered garments, and walnut wood furniture, have historically defined Kashmir’s reputation.
The rise of cheaper machine-made alternatives has severely impacted local crafts, as only discerning art and craft aficionados can truly appreciate the distinction.
Point of View
The approval of this scheme by the J&K government signifies a commitment to cultural preservation and economic empowerment. It reflects a growing understanding of the importance of traditional crafts in today’s economy and aims to bridge the gap between heritage and modern skill development.
NationPress
06/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of the J&K government's heritage courses?
The main goal is to preserve traditional crafts while promoting skill-based livelihoods among the youth.
How many students can participate in the new courses?
The scheme accommodates up to 500 students across various traditional craft courses.
What support will be provided to the trainees?
Trainees will receive stipends, and experienced artisans will be compensated as instructors.
Which crafts are included in the heritage courses?
The courses include various traditional crafts such as handmade carpets, shawls, and walnut wood furniture.
Why have traditional crafts struggled in recent years?
Traditional crafts have faced challenges due to market saturation from cheaper machine-made products and a shift in career choices among local artisans' children.
