Minister for Industries and Commerce, Chander Prakash Ganga, Tuesday visited the Kashmir Haat here to take the first-hand appraisal of the functioning of the various sections of the Haat.The Minister inspected various sections including the Craft Museum, School of Designs, Massive Carpet Scheme (MSE) showroom and stalls surrounding the Haat’s lawns.While inspecting the Designs section at the Haat, Ganga was informed that the Department is actively involved in innovations in designs across all forms of handicrafts, including Kani shawl, copperware, wood carving, papier-mâché, carpet including namda designing, ceiling panels, sozni wall hangings, table runners, cushion covers, willow wickers and lamps and tapestry.The Minister said innovations in designs is the need of the hour to succeed in export market and called for sustained efforts at design innovations.
He said handicrafts is J&K’s traditional asset and there is need to make the Kashmir Haat more appealing to people.While inspecting the MSE showroom, Ganga was informed that the Directorate operates 40 centres under the Scheme with each centre having 20 trainers, adding that the beneficiaries are provided loans after completion of training.Ganga also inspected the Department’s library and was informed that the Department is currently involved in its digitalization.On the occasion, the Minister asked the Department to formulate a proposal for sustainable maintenance and modernization of the Haat.He called for continuous holding of exhibitions at the Haat and for keeping its stalls open throughout the year. Ganga also called for opening of two food courts at Haat.