Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, successfully conducted another one-day Capacity Building Programme on Branding and Packaging of famed Kashmir Handicrafts here today.

The programme, which was inaugurated by Director, Handicrafts and Handloom, Kashmir, Mussarat Islam, under the World Bank-aided Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) programme, of the Government of India.

Deputy Director, Trainings, Mirza Shahid Ali, Senior faculty from Jammu & Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) were also present on the occasion.

In a press statement issued here today, a spokesman of the Department of Handicrafts & Handloom, Kashmir, stated that the session was designed to equip artisans and weavers with practical insights and strategies for effective product branding and modern packaging, which are the critical components in enhancing market reach and competitiveness in both domestic and international markets. “The training was conducted by experts and faculty from the JKEDI, who shared hands-on guidance, case studies, and design approaches,” he added.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 100 trainees, artisans and producers, particularly those engaged in G.I/ODOP/DEH products. The programme aimed to empower grassroots craft producers by introducing them to evolving consumer preferences, branding tools, and value-added packaging techniques.

This initiative is part of a broader series of capacity-building efforts under RAMP scheme, aimed at strengthening MSMEs and the artisan community of Kashmir by improving product positioning and market access.