Umaisar Gull Ganie
Kulgam, Aug 13: A Union Territory-level award-winning artisan from south Kashmir’s Kulgam district has crafted the National Flag through traditional needlework, showcasing the region’s rich handicraft heritage ahead of Independence Day.
Shaheena Akhter, a resident of Hariwath area of Kulgam, has created the Tricolour featuring the words “Har Ghar Tiranga” and “Independence Day” in the colours of the National Flag.
Speaking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Akhter said it took her around 15 days to complete the flag using traditional needlework techniques. “It took me around 15 days to make this Tricolour. It was my love for the country that inspired me to craft the National Flag through my traditional art,” she said.
Akhter said handicrafts have given her identity and recognition, urging young people, particularly women, to take advantage of government schemes aimed at promoting the sector.
“Handicraft is my identity. I have received recognition because of this industry. I appeal to the youth to come forward and take benefit from the schemes being provided by the government,” she said.
Shaheena urged the government to further strengthen support for artisans and focus on women’s empowerment in the handicrafts and handloom sector.
“The government is already doing a lot for handicrafts, but more needs to be done, especially for women artisans, so that they can become economically independent,” she said.
Through her unique creation, Akhter hopes to promote Kashmir’s traditional craftsmanship and give greater recognition to the region’s indigenous handicrafts and handloom products.
Mohammad Syed Shah, Assistant Handicraft Training Officer, said the Handicrafts Department was providing handholding support to artisans associated with the handicrafts and handloom sector in Kulgam.
“The department is providing handholding support to artisans. They are provided training and stipends for their work so that traditional crafts can be preserved and artisans can improve their skills,” Shah said—(KNO)
