In a significant update, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir has announced the reconstitution of the Union Territory Level Selection Committee tasked with recommending selections for UT Awards for Handicraft Artisans/Craftspersons of J&K. The reformation of the committee was made official through the Government Order No: 45-JK-IND of 2024 dated 06-06-2024, superseding all previous orders concerning this subject.
Committee Composition
The newly reorganized committee will be comprised of the following members:
- Commissioner/ Secretary to the Government, Industries and Commerce Department, J&K, serving as the Chairman.
- Secretary in the Department, Industries and Commerce Department, J&K, as a member.
- Director Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir and their counterpart in Jammu as members.
- Director Finance, Industries and Commerce Department, J&K, included as a member.
- Joint Managing Director, Handloom & Handicrafts Corporation as a member.
- Assistant Director Handloom, Government of India and Assistant Director Handicrafts, Government of India, both serving as members.
To tackle specific cases, the committee has the liberty to co-opt any other officials/non-official members as determined by the Chairman. The Director of Handicrafts of the relevant region will perform the role of the Member Secretary based on the applicants’ origin — Kashmir or Jammu.
Selection Process
The Divisional level committees, led by the respective Directors of Handicrafts of Kashmir/Jammu, are responsible for inviting applications from eligible artisans and craftspersons as per established guidelines. They will then scrutinize these nominations and forward the recommendations to the UT level committee for final selection. It is mandated that these processes begin well in advance each calendar year to comply with the pre-set timelines as delineated in the guidelines.
This reconstitution marks a pivotal step in recognizing the exceptional talent and contributions of artisans and craftspersons in the region. It ensures the continuation of the longstanding tradition of celebrating and rewarding the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
The order explicitly instructs that the selection process is completed within the specified timelines to maintain the integrity and regularity of the awards. These awards not only honor the artistry and craftsmanship of individuals in the handicraft sector but also play a crucial role in preserving the artisanal traditions of the region.
By the government’s mandate, the reformed committee’s decisions and actions aim to uplift and formally acknowledge the skilled artisans of Jammu and Kashmir, providing them with the recognition and support that they richly deserve.
The government’s official order ended with a formal note, “By Order of the Government of Jammu & Kashmir,” confirming that all procedures shall adhere to the newly established guidelines and structure.
Order Copy
