SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 28: The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) organized an interactive session on “Design, Trends, Forecast, and Export Compliances” in Srinagar.
The event aimed to provide exporters with insights into the latest design trends, compliance requirements, and market strategies for handicrafts.
The session was attended by EPCH Vice Chairman Neeraj Khanna, former Chairmen Raj Kumar Malhotra and Ravi K. Passi, COA member Arshad Mir, Assistant Director Design Amla Srivastava, leading exporters, and media representatives. R.K. Verma, Executive Director of EPCH, also shared updates about the council’s initiatives.
Arshad Mir welcomed attendees, emphasizing the importance of equipping exporters with knowledge about upcoming trends and forecasts in handicrafts. He highlighted EPCH’s CSR initiatives, including health camps for artisans, educational support, and the establishment of an advanced Pashmina Certification Lab in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India.
Neeraj Khanna stressed the importance of skill enhancement, capacity building, and market adaptability to remain competitive in global markets. He encouraged exporters to leverage digital marketing and e-commerce to expand their reach.
Raj Kumar Malhotra underlined the significance of adhering to international standards and compliance, noting that approximately 70% of Indian handicraft exports cater to compliance-conscious markets. He urged exporters to prioritize sustainable and ethical production practices.
Ravi K. Passi shared his expertise in handicraft exports, encouraging young entrepreneurs from Kashmir to take advantage of EPCH’s resources to boost their export potential. Amla Srivastava presented design trends for Spring/Summer 2026, focusing on minimalism, botanical themes, and contemporary adaptations of traditional crafts. She discussed transforming traditional patterns and silhouettes to appeal to modern consumers. The session included a Q&A segment where participants sought guidance on design, product development, and export compliance. Speakers provided practical solutions and fostered an engaging dialogue with exporters.
The EPCH highlighted its role as a nodal agency for promoting handicraft exports, which reached ₹32,759 crores (USD 3,956 million) in 2023-24, reflecting a growth of 9.13% in rupee terms and 6.11% in dollar terms. Exports from Jammu & Kashmir during the same period amounted to ₹15.64 crores.