Jammu, July 26 -- The Kashmir Valley's famed handmade handicraft industry is under threat as machine-made products, falsely marketed as authentic, flood the market, jeopardizing the livelihoods of artisans and the region's global reputation.
In response, the Kashmir Craft Dealers Association has issued a seven-day ultimatum to traders, demanding the removal of machine-made items or face blacklisting and deregistration.
Kashmir's handicrafts, including Pashmina shawls, handwoven carpets, and intricate papier-mache, are celebrated worldwide for their craftsmanship and cultural significance.
These labour-intensive creations, often passed down through generations, are a vital part of the valley's economy and identity. However, the rise of ch...