Unlocking The Potential Of Kashmir's Creative Economy

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer)
KO File Photo by Romaan Arora.

By Sakhra Riyaz

Traditionally, Kashmir's Economy has relied primarily on two sectors: Agriculture and tourism. These sectors have been the backbone of the economy of the region. Although important, there is another sector that has a lot of potential: the creative economy. The term
“creative economy” refers to a sector of the economy that is based on human creativity and innovation. It includes Kashmir's unique art and craft, and is a separate industry that is sometimes misinterpreted as a mere extension of tourism. However, the sector holds immense potential for both economic growth and cultural preservation.

Abideen. This intricate craft involves hand-painting detailed patterns on a papier-mâché base, creating items such as trays, book covers, and decorative boxes. The art form flourished and gained international popularity in the 19th century, especially through the trade in Kashmiri shawls, which were packed in“Kar-i-qalamdani” boxes.

Similarly, copperware art in Kashmir is another example of the region's rich artisanal skills. This art was introduced after the decline of the Mughal era when Kashmiri metalworkers began creating beautifully carved vessels using
“Meenakari”, This art form is still found abundantly in the markets of the downtown area of Srinagar, where craftsmen continue to produce stunning copper items such as Kashmiri samovars, trays, lamps and utensils.

Thus, Kashmiri handicrafts are known around the world for their rich history and global recognition. However, the sector still faces significant challenges. Even though Srinagar was designated a UNESCO
Creative City for Crafts and Folk Arts in 2021, the sector is struggling. The data from the Handicrafts Department shows a
45 percent decline as shawl exports have decreased from Rs 305.90 crore in 2018-19 to Rs 172.53 crore in 2020-21.

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Efforts need to be made to promote as well as preserve traditional crafts. Such endeavours should involve providing local artisans with resources - especially virtual -- to advertise their skills as well as to sell their products. An important part of such efforts would be access and use of e-commerce platforms to help local crafts reach a global market.

Second, the government can provide subsidies to artisans and small businesses, helping them upscale their operations without high costs.

The government can also facilitate training programs to introduce new skills and techniques while preserving traditional methods. In this way, old and new techniques will be blended together, resulting in new interpretations of Kashmiri crafts. Lastly, it is important to protect the technique of Kashmiri crafts through intellectual property rights, to maintain the crafts' value and uniqueness.

There are examples of countries that have made significant investments to develop their creative economies, such as establishing museums, architectural projects, and creating specialized programs and centers. These initiatives help create more jobs but also promote the arts and generate revenue.

For instance, the European Union launched the“Creative Europe” program in 2014, which includes the Cultural and Creative Sector Guarantee Facility. This facility supports entrepreneurs by providing insurance and encouraging them to finance creative businesses that in turn help employ over“12 million people”.

On the other hand, in the Middle East, the United Arab Emirates has made significant progress in developing its creative economy. There was an agreement between the government of Abu Dhabi and Paris that led to the establishment of the
Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi. The museum regularly holds masterclasses with local Emirati artists in areas such as papermaking, pottery and portraiture, as well as screenings of films by local directors. This highlights how museums can serve as platforms for showcasing and investing in the creative economy.

A similar policy could be adopted by the government to build museums and cultural centers dedicated to Kashmiri art and crafts. Local artisans could be invited to conduct workshops and masterclasses on traditional crafts. This can help preserve these skills and pass them on to younger generations.

The creative economy is more than just a subset of tourism; it is a standalone sector that has the potential to provide substantial employment opportunities and contribute to Kashmir's economic development. Handicrafts from Kashmir, including paper-mâché, copperware, embroidery, and Pashmina shawls, are in demand worldwide. By promoting traditional crafts, we can boost the economy and preserve the rich history of the region. Each handcrafted item tells a story of Kashmir's past, its people, and their artistic ability.

Therefore, while agriculture and tourism continue to play important roles in Kashmir's economy, the creative sector presents an opportunity for economic growth and cultural preservation. By investing in and promoting this sector, Kashmir can bolster its economic resilience while preserving its artistic heritage. We need to recognize the creative economy as a vital third sector and provide it with the support and recognition it deserves.

• The author is a student from Georgetown University

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