Kashmir launches carpet weaving skill drive for women under SAMARTH scheme

SRINAGAR, June 04, 2026:The Department of Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir, through the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology, launched a major skill upgradation training programme under the Ministry of Textiles-sponsored SAMARTH Scheme.

This flagship initiative aims to strengthen Kashmir’s traditional carpet weaving sector by providing demand-driven, industry-oriented training to improve employability and promote sustainable livelihoods. Fully aligned with the National Skills Qualifications Framework, the programme ensures that participants receive nationally recognized training and certification standards in the traditional craft.

Under this specialized programme, 180 women beneficiaries from eight districts of Kashmir are scheduled to receive intensive training in silk carpet weaving using modern steel carpet looms over a two-month period. Each of the seven participating districts has enrolled 20 trainees, while Srinagar, a primary carpet weaving hub, will accommodate 40 trainees.

To support the participants, the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology announced that trainees who maintain at least 80 percent attendance will receive a stipend of 5,000 rupees for the course. Meanwhile, the experienced master trainers appointed to lead the sessions will receive a monthly honorarium of 20,000 rupees.

To maintain high transparency and rigorous monitoring, the training framework incorporates a third-party audit system verified by auditors from the Ministry of Textiles alongside a biometric attendance verification system.

This initiative reflects the ongoing commitment of the local administration to revive, preserve, and promote the world-renowned Kashmir carpet craft.

By modernizing weaving infrastructure and creating focused capacity-building programmes, the department continues to safeguard this centuries-old heritage while securing sustainable livelihood opportunities for women artisans across the valley.