JK MONITOR - National Awardees unique treasure of art, talent, handicrafts and Handloom Dept reaches out to stalwarts, seeks their support in artisans’ welfare & boosting sales

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October 2026

Details: Written by: JK Monitor News Network; Category: Headlines; Published: 30 January 2025

SRINAGAR: In a bid to benefit from the colossal experience gained over years of perseverance and patience in the field of art and crafts, the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, today organized a meeting with the National Awardees to obtain firsthand feedback from them in their respective crafts and way forward. Structured meetings with these stalwarts shall help the Department to frame a strategy to boost sale and export of exquisite handmade products and encourage new artisans and weavers to set up their own startup ventures.

The meeting was attended by Abdul Majeed Mir (Aari Staple), Ghulam Nabi Dar (Walnut Wood Carving), Hakeem Manzoor Ahmad (Papier Mache) and Manzoor Ahmad Khan, Mansoor Ahmad Makaiya & Nisar Ahmad Khan, all in the field of Kani weaving.

During the discussions with Director Handicrafts and Handloom, Mussarat Islam, the National Awardees appreciated the role of the department in safeguarding the welfare of artisans and promotion of genuine craft products. They also lauded the recent efforts of the Department in curbing sale of counterfeit items in the name of hand-made products, which are bringing a bad name to the rich heritage of Kashmir.

The Director described them as unique package of art and talent that the department wears as a badge of honour. He assured the National Awardees of scaling up GI tagging, certification and QR coding of handmade items in its PTQCC, IICT labs and Quality Control labs so that customer confidence is secured. “The department has requested these master craftsmen to share their views for promotion of unique Kashmir crafts,” he added.

He also requested the Awardees to partner the initiatives of the Department in capacity building of new artisan and weavers so that the rich crafts of Kashmir are saved for posterity.

October 2026

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”. Read the message here

In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

I will always remember Dr. Priya Ranjan not only as the Chairman of JK Monitor, but as a mentor, guide and elder brother whose kindness profoundly shaped my life and work. Write a tribute at In Loving Memory · Dr. Priya Ranjan

When he appointed me Editor-in-Chief of JK Monitor, he never treated me as an employee, but as a younger brother, offering warmth, trust, respect and invaluable guidance. I will always be grateful for his faith in me, his encouragement and the lessons he shared.

Dr. Ranjan was a rare and noble soul—humble, compassionate, intellectually brilliant and always willing to help others. A visionary thinker, he believed in using knowledge and abilities to make a meaningful difference. His influence lives on through the people he guided, the work he inspired and the countless lives he touched.

For me, he will always be the elder brother who believed in me and guided me with affection. I will cherish his kindness and lessons forever. May his soul rest in eternal peace. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

(Ajmer Alam Wani)

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We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan. IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

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