SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has called for an expansion of the initiative to distribute modified modern steel carpet looms to artisans in Kashmir, stating that the current plan to provide 100 looms should be widened after evaluating their effectiveness.
The chamber welcomed the Jammu and Kashmir government’s effort, carried out through the Industries and Commerce Department and the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT), to introduce these modern looms. It noted that traditional looms pose challenges related to mobility and ergonomics, which affect artisans’ efficiency and comfort.
The IICT recently conducted a ‘Draw of Lots’ to select 100 active registered carpet weavers eligible to receive the looms. However, the KCCI emphasised that more artisans should benefit from the initiative, ensuring that the looms meet expected standards before further distribution.
Carpet weaving has long been a key sector of Kashmir’s economy, providing livelihoods to thousands. The introduction of modern technology, KCCI said, could improve productivity and enhance craftsmanship in the industry.
