SRINAGAR: The Government of India has taken a host of measures to boost the handicrafts and carpet industry in Jammu and Kashmir in order to instil confidence among exporters as well as artisans.

As part of these measures, a `Kashmir Expo,' funded by the Ministry of Commerce, will be organised, besides reviving many Central offices in Srinagar. The decision to reopen the offices of Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Export Credit Generating Centre (ECGC) and at least three offices of Export Promotion Council was taken by Union Minister of State for Commerce Jairam Ramesh, who is currently on a visit to Srinagar.

At a meeting with exporters, Mr. Ramesh conceded most of their demands and immediately ordered that these offices be reopened in Srinagar to help the traders dealing with handicrafts and carpets. "While the measures to revive the offices of DGFT and ECGC will be taken soon after I reach Delhi, the offices of Export Promotion Council for Carpets and handicrafts will start functioning here by July 15," Mr. Ramesh said.

He said the Ministry would collaborate with J & K Bank on many issues as it had emerged as the most credible institution in the State. He also assured the exporters and industry members that other issues like reopening of the customs office would be taken up with the Union Finance Ministry.

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