SRINAGAR: The Innovation and Incubation Centre of the Islamia College of Science and Commerce, Srinagar, in collaboration with the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) PPDC, Extension Centre Srinagar, organised a one-day seminar on ‘Tech Innovative intervention in Kashmir Handicrafts’ in the college today.
The seminar was attended by HOD Arts IASE, Srinagar, Arshad Sauleh, and renowned artist of Kashmir, Ajaz Hussian, Faculty Robotics and Automation, Ministry of MSME PPDC Srinagar, Faculty NIFT Srinagar, Designer and Founder of Studio Kilab, artisans of paper mache of Shah-er-Khas, faculty and students of the college, and the staff of Design Innovation Centre (DIC), Central University of Kashmir.
The seminar’s focus was to educate artisans on integrating technology in Paper Mache, anticipating and overcoming challenges by exploring innovative designs for newer product possibilities.
Principal of the college, Prof. (Dr.) Tehmina Yousuf lauded the seminar for its educative and transforming role for artisans of Kashmir Handicrafts. In her address, she reiterated the commitment of the college to support the Handicraft artisans of Kashmir in general and that of Shah-er-Khas in particular for value addition of their products to remain market relevant and sensitised the students for future endeavour in handicrafts with integration of technology.
Convenor IIC of the college briefed the audience on the activities and programs that the college has been holding since the inception of the IIC in the college for the promotion of the culture of entrepreneurship, innovation and start-ups among the student community. He presented a thorough introduction to the papier-mache craft in the Kashmir valley.
During the programme, the participants were apprised about already existing technology like 5-axis CNC machines and Wire EDM machines that are used to make papier-mache moulds and designs.
Meanwhile, an interactive session was held, which witnessed a threadbare discussion about the existing technology for Paper Mache and its pros and cons.
The artisans identified the problems they faced while using existing technology. In the light of discussions held, the experts pointed out ways that should be incorporated in the existing technology for its optimisation and result orientation.
