I want to see Jammu, Srinagar as best art cities of India: LG

‘J&K achieve cleanest UT rank in country’

Jammu: Congratulated the people, artisans, craftspeople and all stakeholder departments after summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir received the prestigious title of ‘World Craft City’, the Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha said that the he wants to see, Jammu and Srinagar both becoming best art cities of India.
“I want to see Jammu and Srinagar becoming the best art cities of India. I want to see both the cities claim the title of best home for the artists and favourite destination for seekers of priceless art,” LG said addressing the Certificate Award Ceremony marking the recognition of Srinagar as ‘World Craft City’ by World Crafts Council (WCC).
Srinagar is the 4th city of India to receive the prestigious title of ‘World Craft City’. The Certificate Award Ceremony was attended by World Crafts Council President Sa’ad Hani Al-Qaddumi and other prominent personalities of the Council.
“Truly delighted to see Srinagar being awarded the certificate of 'World Craft City' by World Crafts Council (WCC). It’s a great honour for the ancient city known for its priceless cultural and artistic heritage. It will go a long way to preserve and promote J&K's crafts and craftsmanship,” LG said.
He also appreciated the World Crafts Council for its endeavours to inspire and promote the artistic traditions of the cities across the world.
“J&K is proud to have an inclusive cultural ecosystem, which always inspired the weavers and craftspeople. I believe in honouring the Srinagar city, the World Crafts Council has also honored the 5000-year rich Indian civilization which kept alive creative traditions and always promoted gifted artisans for their ingenuity and craftsmanship,” he observed.
He highlighted the efforts of the administration to preserve and promote the unique cultural and artistic heritage of Jammu Kashmir and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities to the artisans and craftspeople of J&K.
“Jammu Kashmir is known as a Crown Jewel of India not only because of its geographical position but also because of its quest for spiritual wisdom and its ageless Indian cultural assets, which can be witnessed in the infinite variety of creative products,” he said.
He reiterated the commitment of administration to support the artisans in marketing and exports of handicrafts, handloom products and promotion of all craft forms.
“We are giving greater attention to training of young generation of craftspeople so they can be part of this traditional occupation,” he said.
He said the administration is also determined to ensure that their creative products are financially attractive and the work is professionally satisfying.
He also commended the efforts of Handloom and Handicraft department and the Industries and Commerce department for leading the change in the vital sector of J&K’s economy.
“I am sure the recognition of Srinagar now as ‘World Craft City’ will not only provide a new identity to Srinagar in the global market but craftsmanship will re-establish its position as a prestigious occupation,” LG said.
Speaking on the occasion, Sh Sa’ad Hani Al-Qaddumi, President World Crafts Council International, congratulated the J&K Government on the recognition of Srinagar as ‘World Craft City’. Srinagar has joined the well-deserved ranks amongst the craft cities across the world, he said.
Meanwhile, LG launched the 15-day long SwachhtaPakhwada ‘The Shuchita Sangram’ campaign, at Srinagar.
At the opening ceremony of the campaign, the Lt Governor felicitated Safaimitras and lauded the significant contribution of Sanitation workers, citizens and all other stakeholders in Swachhta Abhiyan.
“SwachhtaPakhwada is not just a campaign, it is a movement that embodies the spirit of a clean and healthy India which is inspired by the vision of Pujya Bapu and aims to instil a sense of responsibility and commitment towards maintaining cleanliness in our surroundings,” he said.