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JAMMU: The Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom Jammu & Kashmir, in collaboration with NIFT Srinagar, successfully conducted one-day capacity building workshops on Packaging and Branding under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Scheme at the Conference Hall DC Office Complex, Samba and Horizen Public School, Nagri, Doda. The strategic initiative represents a significant milestone in strengthening the market readiness and competitive edge of local artisans and craft-based entrepreneurs across the region.

The workshops delivered comprehensive technical sessions focused on modern packaging techniques, innovative branding strategies, effective product presentation and strategic market positioning.

Expert faculty from NIFT Srinagar shared practical insights aligned with contemporary design aesthetics and evolving market trends, empowering participants to add substantial value to their traditional crafts and enhance their viability in both national and international markets.

 The program addressed the critical gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern market demands, equipping artisans with tools to transform their heritage skills into sustainable and profitable enterprises.

The Joint Director Handicrafts and Joint Director Handloom graced the occasion as Chief Guests, underscoring the transformative power of packaging and branding in converting traditional crafts into sustainable livelihoods. They reaffirmed the department’s unwavering commitment under the RAMP scheme to provide comprehensive institutional support, systematic skill up-gradation and robust market linkages to the artisan community. Their addresses highlighted how such capacity-building initiatives are instrumental in preserving cultural heritage while ensuring economic empowerment. Similarly in Doda the workshop was presided by the Assistant Director, Handicrafts and Handloom, Doda.

The workshops witnessed enthusiastic and active participation from a diverse audience comprising artisans, weavers and departmental officers culminating in an engaging interactive session where participants’ queries and concerns were comprehensively addressed. This initiative has been widely appreciated as a transformative step towards empowering artisan community and promoting rich handicraft and handloom heritage of Jammu & Kashmir through innovation, professional excellence and market-oriented skill development. The success of the workshops underscores the department’s dedication to fostering sustainable growth and global recognition for the region’s indigenous crafts.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

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.

— Team JK Monitor

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