REASI: Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce, Vikramjit Singh, inaugurated the three-day Pashmina Fest-2025 at the temple town Katra here today.
The Fest is being organised by Jammu & Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO) and sponsored by Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Union Ministry of Textiles, under the National Handicraft Development Programme (NHDP).
JKTPO is holding this event after the successful launch of two major events, Gandhi Shilp Bazar at Kashmir Haat, Srinagar, and GI Fair Buyer-Seller Meet at Budgam.
After inaugurating the Fest, the Commissioner Secretary interacted with both buyers and artisans, appreciating their efforts and expressing strong support for the initiative. He emphasised that the festival holds immense significance in strengthening the livelihoods of local artisans, enhancing their visibility, and expanding their market linkages at the national level. He also commended JKTPO’s sustained efforts in promoting Jammu & Kashmir’s rich craft heritage through such dedicated platforms.
Deputy Commissioner Reasi, Nidhi Malik, was also present on the occasion. She appreciated the efforts of JKTPO for the successful launch of this commendable initiative that celebrates the rich cultural legacy and the pride of our region, the exquisite Pashmina.
Managing Director, JKTPO, Sudarshan Kumar, in his welcome address, gave a brief outline about the three-day Pashmina Fest-2025.
Pertinently, the three-day festival, organised by JKTPO, is part of the ongoing efforts to support and revitalise Jammu and Kashmir’s rich handicraft heritage. It aims to showcase the finest Geographical Indication (GI)-certified Pashmina products from the region and highlight the exceptional skills of artisans and craft enterprises, celebrating the timeless legacy of Pashmina craftsmanship.
With this fest, JKTPO seeks to facilitate structured B2B interactions and provide local artisans with direct market access. Featuring Basohli Pashmina from Kathua district and Pashmina from Srinagar, both recognised as authentic GI-certified products, the fest highlights their cultural significance, heritage value, and artisanal excellence.
This much-anticipated event is expected to give a substantial boost to the region’s textile and handicrafts sector, offering a dynamic platform for artisans, entrepreneurs, and exporters to connect with esteemed national buyers.
This three-day festival is set to highlight the intricate artistry, cultural heritage, and traditional craftsmanship associated with authentic GI-tagged Pashmina. The event not only provides artisans an opportunity to showcase their exquisite creations but also serves as a vital bridge connecting them with reputed buyers, exporters, and design houses from across India.
The festival aims to promote authentic GI-tagged Pashmina and foster B2B linkages between over 40+ reputed national buyers from across India — including New Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttarakhand, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, and West Bengal — and 50 Pashmina artisan groups from Jammu and Kashmir. It also seeks to position Katra as an emerging hub for craft and cultural tourism.
Through Pashmina Fest 2025, the Jammu & Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO) reaffirms its commitment to preserving, promoting, and modernising the region’s craft heritage. By bringing together artisans, designers, buyers, and industry leaders, the event aims to foster collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, ensuring that the traditional techniques and cultural significance of Pashmina weaving continue to flourish in the contemporary marketplace.
