UDHAMPUR: As part of the "Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav" the 8th National Handloom Day was celebrated by Handloom Development Department Udhampur in the premises of Assistant Director Handloom here at Subash Nagar.

A large number of weavers/Artisans of the district attended the programme. They were updated about the developmental and welfare schemes of the department meant for their socio economic upliftment.

DDC Chairperson Udhampur, Lal Chand was the chief guest, while Block Development Council Chairman Balwan Singh was the guest of honour.

Addressing the gathering, the DDC Chairperson appreciated the efforts put in by the Handloom Department for the welfare of weavers/Artisan community in the district. He advised the Weavers to adopt new technology and develop new designs by replacing the old pit looms to modern fly shuttle looms to improve the quality of products and enhance earnings.

At the outset, Assistant Director Handloom Development Department, Narsingh Dayal Verma presented the welcome address.

He sensitized the participants about the numerous developmental schemes being implemented by the Handloom Department to enable the weaver / Artisan community to modernize their units and upgrade skills.

He advised them to avail the benefits of Pradhan Mantri Weaver Mudra Scheme, Credit card Scheme, Education Scheme, Loan for purchase /Renovation/Modernizations of Looms, Share capital Loan, and formation of Co-operative Societies.

The Department also installed a stall of Handloom hand-made products for publicity.

Later, the DDC Chairperson also distributed hand-made cotton bed sheets among the weavers.

J&K Bank Manager Kulwanta (Ramnagar) Rtd. Deputy Registrar, Faqir Chand, officials of handloom department besides Weavers from different areas of the district like Panjar, Upper Kalsote, Moungri Latti, Kulwanta, Chenani, Jakhed, Amro Ramnagar were present on the occasion.