District Development Commissioner, Budgam, Tariq Hussain Ganaie today convened a meeting of officers to review status of ongoing development works at ‘Kanihama Handloom Village’.Among others, the meeting was attended by JD Planning, DD Tourism, AD Handicrafts, AD Handloom, Executive Engineers of PDD, PHE, R&B and other concerned.The DDC said that Government of India, Ministry of Textiles has approved the development of Kanihama as Handloom Village for being traditional seat of Pashmina and Kani shawl weaving in Kashmir.The DDC directed for early execution of developmental works to be executed by various departments including Tourism, RDD, R&B, PHE, PDD, Education, Floriculture, Handloom, Handcrafts and Irrigation. The works include repair and construction of internal roads, drinking water and toilet facilities, construction of 30 work-sheds, 20 looms, parks, installations publicity hoarding boards, signage, installation of solar and street lights, beautification of surroundings and creation of tourist attraction points, ATM facility, improvement of HT and LT lines, entrance gate, cafeteria, renovation of schools, establishment of Health Wellness Centers and covering of lanes and drains in the village.The DDC said that development of Kanihama as Handloom Village will not only become another tourist attraction but also promote the craft and boost local artisans and their economic prospects. He said the village will provide various facilities including looms, handlooms, handicrafts showrooms and training in latest and innovative designs. He said that there are around 250 Handloom weaver households comprising of 500 weavers, Crewel and Sozni artisans in Kanihama who are famous for their Pashmina and Kani shawl weaving and embroidery.