SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Handicrafts and Handloom Department will present the Union Territory Artisan Awards 2024 on November 25, honouring 38 artisans and weavers for their contribution to preserving the region’s traditional crafts.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, who also holds the Industries and Commerce portfolio, will preside over the ceremony at SKICC Srinagar, alongside Commissioner Secretary Industries and Commerce Vikramjit Singh. According to an official statement issued on Sunday, awardees include 20 craftspeople from Kashmir and 18 from Jammu.
The winners were selected across notified craft categories and will receive citations and cash awards of Rs 50,000, Rs 30,000 and Rs 20,000 for the first three positions in each craft. The department said the event reflects the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the livelihoods of artisans and sustaining Jammu and Kashmir’s globally recognised handicraft heritage.
Officials noted that artisans from the Union Territory have consistently gained national recognition, including Padma honours and Shilp Guru titles, while drawing international acclaim for their craftsmanship. The department also confirmed that the selection process for the 2025 awards has already begun.
