Divisional Commissioner Garg also talked about the administration's preparations for winter and fire safety.
Jagran correspondent, Srinagar. Valley Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg said Kashmiri artisans are commendable for maintaining age-old craft traditions and creatively blending them with modern beauty.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of Pheran Day Jashn-e-Chillai Kalan celebrations held at Kashmir Haat in Srinagar, he said the event was also the 40th anniversary of Kashmir Artisans Day, which reflects the continued vibrancy of the traditional craftsmanship of the valley.
He said, the traditional attire of the valley and our handicrafts are a reflection of our warmth and beauty. The way all the artisans present with us today are playing their role in keeping this heritage alive and keeping pace with the changing times is commendable.
He congratulated the Department of Handicrafts and Handlooms for taking regular initiatives to promote local artisans, including three-day festival, New Year artisan programs and new marketing platforms. The department has been active in providing exposure and opportunities to artisans, especially ahead of the winter and tourist seasons, he said. He said the administration is working on the Local for Local concept to strengthen the craft economy of Kashmir.
Inviting the tourists to visit this two-day exhibition, he said that such events not only celebrate the heritage of the valley but also help the artisans to connect directly with the buyers and tourists.
Nodal officers deployed to ensure services
He also extended good wishes for the upcoming festive season and spoke about the administration's winter preparations, saying 'Integrated Command and Control Centre' and district-level control rooms are working round the clock. All DCs have set up control rooms in their districts and nodal officers have been deployed to ensure uninterrupted power supply, snow removal and essential services, he said.
Garg also issued an advisory on fire safety, urging residents to be careful during winter. “We have seen several incidents of fire in recent weeks,” he said. People should check their winter equipment and ensure that electrical appliances are switched off when not in use to avoid unfortunate incidents.