Srinagar, August 01: In an important step towards revival and publicity of the traditional craft of Kashmiri Namda, the government has approved funds for renewal and installation of a high -capacity carding machine in its UNDP wing.
The initiative comes under a large objective of strengthening the infrastructure and stability of traditional handicrafts and handloom regions in the valley.
Namda, a centuries -old craft, which includes woolen fabric felting and embroidery, has seen a continuous decline due to various obstacles, especially the lack of wool processing features, high input costs and time -taking manual methods. The renewal of carding machines under the CAPEX budget is expected to address these bottlenecks directly.
In a press statement released here today, UNDP Deputy Director Mirza Shahid Ali said that the availability of modern carding facilities will significantly reduce manual labor and processing time, which will make crafts financially for artisans and increase production capacity, which can make up the growing domestic and international demand. This step is expected to attract small artisans to trade by improving work status and productivity.
He said, “This step align to revive the craft to align with the government’s broad vision, in which Namda is recognized as a major craft. We will ensure timely renewal, installation and operations of the machine by providing necessary training to artisans to maximize utility.”
This development is expected to breathe new life in the Namdha region, preserve its rich heritage and improve the livelihood of hundreds of artisans dependent on this culturally important art form, which has a major demand in locally as well as external markets.
