Srinagar September 05 (KNS): Department of Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir shared the pride to join the nation in celebrating Teachers' Day by recognizing and expressing gratitude to the Craft Instructors and Master Craftsmen who are a substantial medium to preserve the rich traditional art, heritage and culture, traditional skills and talents which are associated with people’s lifestyle and history. It is these skilled hands which have earned Srinagar a place in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in the craft and folk-art category, the only city in India from a list of 49 worldwide to earn this honour.
Being the first of its kind the day serves as a reminder of the vital contributions of the instructors in nurturing the minds of the next generation. This theme, "Celebrating our Craftsmen," underscores the importance of instructors as catalysts for personal growth, critical thinking, and societal progress. It highlights their role in not only imparting the craft but also playing an invaluable role in teaching and guiding individuals, often students or hobbyists, in the creation of various craft projects.
Mr Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner/Secretary to the Government I&C who was the chief guest of the event while acknowledging the dedication and commitment of the master craftsmen who go above and beyond to provide quality training said, “I extend heartfelt appreciation to all Craft Instructors and Master Craftsmen, who are no less than educators, for their invaluable contributions to our communities and society at large”.
In celebration of Teachers' Day, the department had arranged the programme to recognize and celebrate the craftsmen for their commitment to imparting the age-old crafts. The event witnessed distribution of certificates among the Master Trainers of Karkhandar scheme. On the spot Orders were also issued for establishment of new units under Karkhandar scheme and formulation of cooperative societies.
Speaking on the occasion Director Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir highlighted the role of Craft Instructors in creating a balance between the traditional values and contemporary outlook, he termed craftsmen the ambassadors of our heritage to the world. He further highlighted the departmental role in bridging the gap between the department and artisans through the Karkhandar scheme introduced to breathe new life into UT’s craft industry, especially the dying crafts.
Pledge taking ceremony on Brashtachar Mukht, J&K was also conducted side by side to the programme. The dais was shared by General Manager State Bank of India (SBI), Mr Ajay Kumar Jha and other senior officers of the department.(KNS)