SRINAGAR: The Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, has launched a skill upgradation training programme for carpet weavers under the Ministry of Textiles-sponsored SAMARTH Scheme to strengthen the traditional carpet sector and improve artisan livelihoods.
Implemented through the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT), the programme will provide structured training in silk carpet weaving using modern steel looms. Officials said 180 women from eight districts of Kashmir will be trained over a two-month period, with Srinagar hosting 40 participants.
The SAMARTH (Scheme for Capacity Building in Textile Sector) is a central government initiative aimed at industry-oriented skill development to enhance employability and support sustainable livelihoods in the textile and handicrafts sectors. The programme is aligned with the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) to ensure standardised training and certification.
Director IICT Zubair Ahmad said trainees maintaining at least 80 per cent attendance will be eligible for a stipend of Rs 5,000 per course. He added that master trainers engaged in the programme will receive an honorarium of Rs 20,000 per month, with the total training cost estimated at around Rs 3.60 lakh.
He further said the programme will be monitored through third-party audits by the Ministry of Textiles, along with Aadhaar-based biometric attendance to ensure transparency and accountability.
Officials said the initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to modernise Kashmir’s carpet weaving infrastructure, improve market linkages, and preserve the region’s globally recognised hand-knotted carpet heritage while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities, particularly for women artisans.
