The artisans of Kashmir, especially in District Budgam, are facing severe hardships. Despite creating beautiful and valuable shawls and carpets, they are struggling to make ends meet. While the sellers of these items live in luxury, the artisans themselves barely get enough to survive. These shawls and carpets often sell for lakhs of rupees within and outside the country, yet the artisans receive only a small fraction of this amount.
During my personal visits to various places in Budgam, such as Ringzabal, Kharein, Zogo, Brass, Drang, Habbar, Rawalpora, Parra Pora, Gund I Panah, Dragger, Raithan, Basant Vaderr, Mujhpathri, and Lani Labb, I observed the struggles of these artisans firsthand. Many artisans in these areas reported that their wages are so low that they are forced to change their professions. They now work as laborers in other fields because they earn at least Rs. 700 a day, which is still very little but better than what they were earning from their craft. This shift not only hurts the artisans but also threatens the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir.
Artisans often do not receive the respect they deserve for their skill and hard work. Their contribution to the cultural heritage of Kashmir is immense, yet they are frequently overlooked. Many artisans work in poor conditions without proper facilities. This affects their health and the quality of their work. Middlemen often take a large share of the profits, leaving the artisans with very little. This exploitation makes it even harder for artisans to earn a fair wage. Artisans have limited resources and access to markets where they can sell their products directly. This forces them to rely on middlemen who do not pay them fairly.
If the government provides interest-free loans to artisans and sells their products in government emporiums, it would not only encourage them but also ensure that authentic shawls and other cultural products get the respect and honor they deserve. It is crucial to ensure that artisans receive fair wages for their work. Moreover, they should get a percentage of the profits from the sale of their products. This will give them a fair share of the value they create.
The government of Jammu and Kashmir needs to take immediate action to support artisans. This can include financial aid, better working conditions, and access to healthcare. Providing artisans with direct access to markets, both local and international, can help them sell their products at fair prices. This can be done through online platforms and government-supported trade fairs. Offering training programs to help artisans improve their skills and learn new techniques can increase the value of their work. Education on market trends and pricing can also help them negotiate better deals. Creating awards and recognition programs for artisans can help raise their status and respect in society. This will also encourage young people to take up traditional crafts.
The artisans of Kashmir are the keepers of a rich cultural heritage. It is essential to support them by ensuring they receive fair wages, better working conditions, and respect for their work. The government and society must act now to protect and empower these golden hands.
