MSDE launches pilot projects to revive and catalyze the traditional Namda Craft and upskill the Artisans and Weavers of Kashmir

What is the News?

Minister of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has launched two projects— (i) Revival of Namda craft of Kashmir as a special pilot project under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) 3.0 and (ii) upskilling of artisans and weavers of Kashmir under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), component of PMKVY.

What is the objective of these projects?

Objective: To boost and preserve the traditional Namda craft of Kashmir and upskill the local weavers and artisans to enhance their productivity through RPL assessment and certification. 

What is Namda Craft?

Namda craft is widely thought to have originated in the 11th century during the reign of Mughal emperor Akbar.

Made of: Namda craft is a rug made of sheep wool through a felting technique instead of the normal weaving process. 

Uses: Namda Craft is extensively used in Kashmir households for floor covering and mattresses.

Reasons for Decline of Namda Craft

Due to the low availability of raw materials, lack of skilled manpower and marketing techniques, the export of Namda craft has declined almost 100% between 1998 and 2008. 

Therefore, through these special projects under PMKVY, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has designed a short-term training curriculum to preserve this endangered craft. 

Significance of these projects

The projects will contribute towards preserving and reviving the rich heritage associated with Namda craft in Kashmir. This will also improve the access of existing artisans of Namda crafts cluster in Kashmir and will improve their prospects of employability.

Source: This post is based on the article “MSDE launches pilot projects to revive and catalyze the traditional Namda Craft and upskill the Artisans and Weavers of Kashmir” published in PIB on 28th Nov 2021.