J&K CM Omar Abdullah urges revival of Kashmir’s artisan heritage through global buyer-seller networks. Speaking at Buyer-Seller Meet 2025, he called for deeper market access, innovation, and fair recognition for artisans. Over 100 sellers and 45 international buyers participated in the event held at SKICC.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday called for reviving the historical connection between the region’s skilled artisans and the international market. Speaking as the chief guest at the Buyer-Seller Meet 2025 held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), Abdullah emphasized the need to rebuild the once-thriving buyer-seller relationship that connected Kashmir’s artisans to global customers.
The event was organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO) in association with the Wool & Woollens Export Promotion Council (WWEPC) under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises’ (MoMSME) RAMP (Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance) scheme.
The meet drew participation from over 100 sellers showcasing premier wool and woollen products, and attracted more than 45 national and international buyers representing seven countries and seven Indian states. The showcase featured a diverse range of high-quality handcrafted wool products, reflecting Kashmir’s rich legacy of craftsmanship and design.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister reflected on the region’s past, when tourists and buyers naturally flocked to Kashmir, establishing enduring relationships with local artisans.
“There was a time when such meets weren’t necessary—buyers came to us,” Abdullah said. “Through platforms like this, we are attempting to bring back that connection and create sustainable linkages between our artisans and global markets.”
Omar Abdullah further announced that the government is committed to organizing six regular Buyer-Seller Meets and six reverse meets under the RAMP initiative. These events aim to ensure consistent market engagement and foster greater international visibility for J&K’s entrepreneurs and craftspeople.
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of inclusivity and equitable opportunity for lesser-known artisans, especially those who lack the financial means to showcase their talent on larger platforms. He directed the Industries Department to prioritize such artisans in future engagements.
“They possess extraordinary skill and artistry, but they often remain hidden due to lack of exposure. We must bring them into the mainstream,” he said. “This will not only enhance their livelihood but also enrich our collective cultural identity.”
Abdullah also expressed concern over intermediaries benefiting more than the actual creators. He emphasized that the recognition and profits must directly reach the artisans themselves.
“Our focus must be clear—reward the hands that create. Let us not allow middlemen to steal their credit,” he added firmly.
Highlighting the importance of innovation in today’s evolving market landscape, the Chief Minister urged artisans to adopt modern tools and techniques while retaining the essence of tradition.
“Consumer preferences are rapidly changing. To stay relevant, our artisans must innovate—not just in design, but also in production methods and infrastructure,” he said.
To facilitate this modernization, Abdullah assured government support in the form of raw material banks, colour banks, and design innovation centres. He emphasized that such initiatives would equip Kashmir’s artisans to compete effectively on the international stage.
In a gesture of cultural warmth, Abdullah invited international buyers to explore the beauty and heritage of Kashmir during their visit.
“Please don’t limit your journey to this venue. Visit Srinagar, explore the valleys, meet our people, and take back not only exquisite products but unforgettable memories,” he concluded.
The Buyer-Seller Meet 2025 was hailed as a significant step towards revitalizing Kashmir’s artisan economy. By directly connecting creators with markets, the event aims to pave the way for sustainable growth and international outreach for thousands of artisans across the Union Territory.
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The Chief Minister’s call for innovation, inclusion, and direct benefit to artisans resonated with the gathering and set a strong foundation for policy-driven promotion of Jammu and Kashmir’s rich craft legacy.
