NIFT Srinagar today kick started a 3 days Artisan Awareness workshop for 24 artisans from 6 craft clusters. The workshop is aimed to enhance the operational efficiency and competitiveness of the artisan/weavers. Artisans shall be interacting with the NIFT Faculty and Students for knowledge sharing on understating design, market trends, branding and use of social media for marketing. Through the diagnostics studies conducted by students in the previous semester, mapping of gaps and areas of intervention have been identified which will form the basis of this exposure workshop. The workshop will give artisans an opportunity to understand urban markets, upgrade their knowledge and exposure to latest trends and new markets.

The workshop was inaugurated by Director NIFT, Srinagar Dr. Javid Ahmad Wani along with Additional District Development Commissioner Budgam Mr. Ikram Ullah  Tak. While addressing the artisans, the ADDC appreciated efforts of NIFT Srinagar and assured all support to artisans from district administration Budgam. Dr. Aijaz Ashraf, Regional Director MANNU Hyderabad also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the importance of craft and need for protection from imitation and look alike. Dr. Javid Ahmad Wani Director, NIFT Srinagar while welcoming guests and artisans explained the objectives and importance of this workshop. Faculty & Staff were directed by Dr. Javid Wani to provide all the required support to the participating artisans. Kits were distributed among the artisans. Mr. Ashiq Seth, Regional officer Carpet Export Promotional Council  spoke on benefits GI registration. Joint Director NIFT Srinagar, Mr. Sandeep Sachan stressed on online marketing linkages. The Inaugural session ended with vote of thanks to guests by Dr. Yaseer Ahmad Mir, Assistant Professor NIFT Srinagar who also moderated the session.