SRINAGAR, Jan 29: The Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT), Srinagar, under the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, has launched a major initiative to revive the centuries‑old craft of hand‑knotted silk carpet weaving in Kashmir by starting Skill Up‑gradation Training for 160 candidates under the SAMARTH scheme of the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.
The Central Silk Board (CSB) has sanctioned a project to train 320 candidates as ‘Silk Handloom Weavers (Carpets)’ during 2025–26 at a cost of ₹21,16,800. In the first phase, IICT has enrolled 160 candidates and formed eight batches of 20 trainees each across Srinagar, Ganderbal, Bandipora, Pulwama, Kulgam, Anantnag, Budgam and Baramulla districts.
To ensure decentralised and accessible training, the Department of Handicrafts and Handloom has set up Advanced Carpet Training Centres in all eight districts, equipped with modern carpet looms and Aadhaar‑enabled biometric attendance machines. The Institute has also developed innovative silk‑carpet designs, especially for wall hangings, and procured and dyed raw materials to high standards.
Director IICT Srinagar, Zubair Ahmad, said the training will conclude on March 11 and described the SAMARTH initiative as a vital step in reviving Kashmir’s traditional hand‑knotted silk carpet weaving, which symbolises the region’s rich cultural heritage. By blending modern skills with traditional techniques, the project aims to empower local artisans—particularly youth and women—and restore the glory of Kashmir’s carpet industry while boosting employment and export potential.
