Islamia College brings artisans, experts together

Srinagar, Aug 6: Islamia College of Science and Commerce (ICSC), Srinagar, today organised a daylong seminar on “Handicrafts in Shahr-e-Khas: Challenges and Opportunities”, bringing together artisans, academicians, industry leaders, researchers, students, and government officials to explore ways to rejuvenate the traditional handicrafts sector of downtown Srinagar.

The seminar was formally inaugurated by Principal of the College, Tehmina Yousuf, who, in her presidential address, underscored the need to preserve and revitalize Kashmir’s artistic heritage. She highlighted the importance of connecting traditional artisanal knowledge with modern market mechanisms through academic and industry linkages, calling such initiatives essential for building sustainable and entrepreneurial ecosystems in the region.

Welcoming the guests, Zahoor Ahmad Jhat, Convenor of the Innovation & Incubation Centre, emphasized the college’s vision of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among youth, particularly in the realm of indigenous crafts.

The seminar featured in-depth deliberations by several noted speakers. Arshad Suleh, Head, Department of Art, College of Education, spoke about the existential challenges facing the handicrafts sector, including lack of global exposure, declining artisan participation, and increasing competition from machine-made alternatives.

Syed Iliyas Rizvi, founder of Education Revival Through Art & Aesthetics in Kashmir, offered a historical perspective on Kashmir’s artisanal traditions. He advocated for greater youth involvement, institutional support, and policy interventions to revive the sector. His talk covered a wide spectrum—from heritage conservation and design innovation to export limitations, digital marketing, and incubation opportunities.

Fayaz A. Nika, Director, Design Innovation Centre and Dean, School of Management Studies, Central University of Kashmir, discussed the role of higher education and scientific research in addressing structural issues within the craft industry.

Aamina Asad, Chief Designer, Department of Handicrafts and Handlooms, J&K, and Yasir A. Mir, Assistant Professor, NIFT Srinagar, offered insights on design innovation, branding strategies, and the role of digital outreach in promoting Kashmir’s crafts in contemporary markets. The event also featured panel discussions and interactive sessions where students, researchers, and aspiring entrepreneurs explored start-up models and business frameworks centred around traditional crafts. Themes such as design development, export potential, digitization, and artisan-led enterprises were thoroughly discussed.

Several artisans from downtown Srinagar participated in the seminar, sharing their lived experiences and highlighting on-ground realities of the craft sector. Their narratives enriched the discussions and brought attention to both the resilience and challenges within the community. In her concluding remarks, Principal Tehmina Yousuf praised the Innovation & Incubation Centre for organising a seminar of such contemporary relevance and reiterated the College’s commitment to promoting indigenous crafts, artisan welfare, and community-based entrepreneurship.

The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Zahoor Ahmad Jhat, who expressed gratitude to all speakers, participants, media personnel, and the college administration for their support in making the seminar a success. The proceedings of the seminar were anchored by Tanzella, a 5th semester student of the College.