SRINAGAR: The Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT), Srinagar, under the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, has launched skill up-gradation training for 160 candidates to revive Kashmir’s traditional hand-knotted silk carpet weaving craft.
KL Image: Bilal Bahadur
The programme is being implemented under the SAMARTH scheme of the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India. The Central Silk Board has approved training for 320 candidates in the trade of Silk Handloom Weaver (Carpets) during 2025–26, with a sanctioned cost of Rs 21.16 lakh.
In a press statement, IICT Director Zubair Ahmad said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to rejuvenate the carpet sector through skill enhancement, design innovation, improved infrastructure and stronger market linkages, aimed at preserving the heritage craft while generating employment and export opportunities.
He said that in the first phase, 160 trainees have been enrolled, with eight batches of 20 candidates each formed across Srinagar, Ganderbal, Bandipora, Pulwama, Kulgam, Anantnag, Budgam and Baramulla districts.
To ensure decentralised access, the Handicrafts and Handloom Department has established Advanced Carpet Training Centres in all eight districts, equipped with modern carpet looms and Aadhaar-enabled biometric attendance systems.
The Director added that the institute has developed innovative silk carpet designs, particularly for wall hangings, and procured and dyed raw materials to prescribed quality standards. The training programme is scheduled to conclude on March 11, 2026.
Describing the initiative as a key step towards reviving Kashmir’s centuries-old carpet tradition, Zubair Ahmad said the programme aims to blend modern skills with traditional techniques to empower artisans, especially youth and women, and restore the prominence of Kashmir’s carpet industry.
