Centre Invites Applications for National Handicrafts Awards, Artisan Pension Scheme | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: The Union Ministry of Textiles has invited applications from registered artisans and craftsmen for the National Handicrafts Awards — including the Shilp Guru and National Award — for the Award Year 2025, as well as for the Pension Scheme 2025–26 under the National Handicrafts Development Programme (NHDP) and the Handicrafts Artisans Comprehensive Welfare Scheme.

According to a statement issued by the Handicrafts and Handloom Department, Kashmir, the office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, has called for applications from registered artisans in Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal districts for the Handicrafts Awards 2025. The last date for submission of applications has been fixed as March 31, 2026.

A department spokesman said artisans have been urged to apply online and submit self-attested copies of required documents, including two recent passport-size photographs, Aadhaar card, Artisan and PAN cards, award and character certificates, photographs of the award entry, a brief history of the craft, a short personal note, along with videos and an affidavit submitted through a pen drive.

Copies of the notification and related details are available on the department’s official social media platforms, the spokesman added.

For the Pension Scheme under the ‘Financial Support Scheme to Artisans in Indigent Circumstances’, the office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Government of India, has set April 2, 2026 as the deadline for submission of online applications from eligible artisans in Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal.

The spokesman said applicants must upload documents including two recent passport-size photographs, Aadhaar card, Artisan and PAN cards, award certificates if any, income certificate, caste and disability certificates, age certificate, affidavit and a bank mandate form.

Eligible artisans have been advised to submit their applications online through the official portal at [www.indian.handicrafts.gov.in](http://www.indian.handicrafts.gov.in).