Kashmir Handicrafts Dept Gets SEM Boost to Strengthen Pashmina GI Testing, Authentication | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: In a significant move to strengthen quality assurance and fibre authentication, the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, has procured a high-end Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) for the Pashmina Testing and Quality Certification Centre (PTQCC).

Officials said the initiative is aimed at upgrading PTQCC into a centre of excellence in fibre analysis and aligning Geographical Indication (GI) testing and certification of Pashmina and other handwoven products with global standards.

In addition to the SEM, the department has also procured three High-Resolution Digital Microscopes for PTQCC, the Carpet Laboratory at the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT), and the newly established Quality Control Laboratory. These additions are expected to enhance testing capacity, reduce turnaround time, and address long-pending demands of GI-authorised users, traders, and the artisan community.

A spokesperson of the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom said SEM-based testing will enable precise fibre analysis and improve differentiation between genuine Pashmina and other fibres. The system, he said, will help protect the authenticity of Kashmir’s Pashmina products and curb misrepresentation and counterfeit goods in the market.

The equipment has been procured under the Technology Support component of the National Handicrafts Development Programme of the Ministry of Textiles. Officials said the upgrade will further strengthen quality control mechanisms and enhance the global credibility of Kashmir’s textile heritage, particularly Pashmina and Kani shawls.

The newly installed high-resolution microscopes across multiple laboratories are also expected to improve testing efficiency and significantly reduce processing delays, a key demand of GI-authorised users and artisans.

Kashmir currently has 15 Geographical Indication-registered crafts, including Pashmina, hand-knotted carpets, Kani shawls, Tweed, Sozni embroidery, Chainstitch, Wagguv, Gabba, Namda, Walnut Wood Carving, and Papier Mâché. Officials added that documentation for six additional crafts has been completed and will be submitted to the GI Registry in Chennai for registration shortly.