Artisans and craftspeople of Srinagar avail benefits from the Vishwakarma scheme

The scheme aims to provide specialised training and skill development opportunities to artisans and craftsmen. This training will help them enhance their crafts and boost their income.

Bilal Ahmad, a carpenter working under the scheme, said, "The place has taught me how to apply online. We have been taught a lot of new things which saves a lot of time. This is the best option to learn and grow in the future.

Under the scheme, artisans in Kashmir would have access to high-quality training programs that focus on both traditional and modern techniques. By honing their skills and expanding their knowledge, the artisans would be able to create more intricate pieces of art, which would help them attract a wider audience and also increase their marketability.

The scheme also provides financial assistance to the artisans and helps them procure raw materials, tools, and equipment necessary for the craft. The support the artisans receive helps them ensure high-quality products and compete in the global market.

Ayob Dar, another local carpenter who recently joined the Vishwakarma program said, "I have learned a lot from Vishwakarma. We have been provided with new tools, and this is a good learning place since I previously worked only as a local carpenter. After being trained for five days, they started training me for 15 days. The learning I have got is very good." He further spoke about how the scheme will help him with more government contracts. "This is a very good government initiative. After this, we have the opportunity to work under government contracts."

Mohammad Shafi Bhatt, the principal of Women's Polytechnic, Srinagar, said, "We are registered training providers with a training centre. We have 5 courses, which include carpentry, brick basing, washerman, tailoring, and barbering. The whole process is well organised and well documented." Talking about the registration process and future work opportunities, he said "Our registration process is done online, and everything is provided at the centre. The greater the mobilisation, the more training will happen. This will make government procedures easier for the people who register, and it will also help them to work abroad."

Talking about the scheme, Mohammad Ilyaas, the scheme in-charge, said, "The scheme was launched last year. People are still getting to know about it. With the help of media, we are reaching more people. In J&K, a lot of beneficiaries have been added. We plan to mobilise more to grow."

Overall, the Vishwakarma training scheme is a game changer for the artisans and craftspeople in Kashmir, empowering them to reach new heights of success and recognition in the world of art and craftsmanship.

With the support, the talented craftsmen and individuals of Kashmir would continue to thrive and preserve their rich cultural heritage for generations to come. (ANI)