CUK kickstarts workshop on computer-aided design for Kashmiri crafts

Srinagar, Feb 6: With an aim to blend tradition with technology, the Design Innovation Centre (DIC), Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), Wednesday started a 10-day workshop on “Computer-Aided Design (CAD) for Kashmiri Crafts,” for artisans at Tulmulla Campus here.

Inaugurating the workshop, Vice-Chancellor, Prof A Ravinder Nath, described the event as a wonderful initiative to safeguard Kashmir’s cultural identity while strengthening livelihoods. Emphasising Kashmir’s global reputation as a seat of knowledge and craftsmanship, the Vice-Chancellor noted that sustaining handicrafts is not merely an economic necessity but a cultural imperative. “Crafts are identity. To keep them alive, we must understand markets, consumer psychology, cultural symbolism and design aesthetics. Technology helps sharpen creativity while minimising physical effort,” he said, adding that future-ready artisans must be conversant with emerging tools such as automation, digital design and artificial intelligence.

He shared his vision of transforming the DIC into a community-college-style hub for skill development, inspired by global best practices. Highlighting the advantages of computer-aided design, Director DIC, Prof Shahid Rasool said the digital designing reduces material wastage, enhances sustainability, improves cost-effectiveness and enables artisans to experiment freely without physical loss.

In his address, Registrar, Dr Nisar Ahmad Mir, appreciated the role of the DIC in promoting skill-based education aligned with national priorities. He observed that Kashmiri crafts—ranging from carpets and shawls to papier-mâché and woodwork—are deeply linked with tourism and local livelihoods and must evolve with time.

In his address, Director IICT, Zubair Ahmad Mir, lauded the DIC for initiating a timely and outcome-oriented programme aimed at empowering Kashmiri artisans through digital intervention. Joint Director DIC, Dr Javid Ahmad Wani, who conducted the programme proceedings, said the workshop aims to equip participants with modern digital tools to preserve, innovate and market Kashmir’s rich craft heritage in a rapidly evolving global marketplace.