Regulation
Global Standards, Local Regulations
Regulations that preserve Kashmir craftsmanship.
Through our collaboration with government bodies and trade associations, HCRF is committed
to ensuring that the policy regulations governing Kashmir’s handicraft industry not only protect the rich heritage of
these crafts but also empower artisans for a prosperous future.
HCRF Policy Regulation
Geographical Indication (GI) Certification
The Geographical Indication (GI) certification is a legal framework designed to protect products unique to a specific geographical region, such as Kashmiri crafts.
GI certification prevents unauthorized use of geographical names by non-Kashmiri products, enhancing credibility and boosting the reputation of Kashmiri crafts.
The Geographical Indications Registry of India under the GI Act, 1999 oversees GI certification applications, grants GI status, and ensures compliance.
HCRF Policy Regulation
Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Protection
IPR protects the designs, techniques, and patterns of Kashmiri artisans, preventing unauthorized copying and commercialization.
Protecting intellectual properties ensures artisans control their designs and are compensated fairly.
The Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks in India oversees IPR protection for handicrafts.
HCRF Policy Regulation
Anti-Counterfeiting Laws and Enforcement
Anti-counterfeiting laws aim to combat the sale of
fake products that are marketed as authentic Kashmiri handicrafts. Counterfeiting is a significant
problem, especially for high-value crafts like Pashmina shawls, where mass-produced fakes severely
undercut authentic artisan-made products.
By enforcing anti-counterfeiting laws, regulators
help preserve the integrity of Kashmiri crafts, ensuring that only genuine products reach the market.
This benefits both artisans and consumers: artisans receive proper compensation, while consumers are
assured of the quality and authenticity of the products they purchase.
Customs Authorities, local law enforcement, and the
Ministry of Commerce and Industry are responsible for monitoring markets and enforcing
anti-counterfeiting measures. In addition, the Geographical Indications Registry also plays a role in
investigating violations of GI protection.
HCRF Policy Regulation
Artisan Welfare and Social Security Policies
Artisan welfare policies provide financial aid,
health benefits, and social security to artisans. They are designed to ensure that artisans, many of
whom work in informal sectors, have access to necessary resources and support. This includes pensions,
healthcare, and access to training and skill development programs.
These policies significantly improve the quality of
life for artisans by providing them with financial stability, social protection, and career growth
opportunities. For example, the Artisan Credit Cards program allows artisans to access low-interest
loans to invest in raw materials or improve their tools, helping them grow their businesses.
The Ministry of Textiles is the primary agency
responsible for implementing these policies in India. Various state government departments also work
alongside the central government to roll out welfare schemes for artisans.
HCRF Policy Regulation
Export Promotion Policies
Export promotion policies are aimed at facilitating
the international trade of Kashmiri crafts, providing artisans
access to lucrative global markets. These policies include export subsidies, simplified procedures for
GI-certified
products, and participation in international trade fairs.
By opening global markets to Kashmiri handicrafts,
these policies help artisans reach a broader audience, increasing
demand and sales for their products. This not only boosts income for individual artisans but also
strengthens the
economic importance of the handicraft sector as a whole. GI-certified products benefit from easier
trade routes and more
recognition in international markets, ensuring that Kashmiri crafts are correctly identified and
marketed.
The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH)
and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry manage export-related
regulations. They support artisans by organizing trade fairs and facilitating trade partnerships
globally.
HCRF Policy Regulation
Environmental and Sustainability Regulations
These regulations encourage the use of eco-friendly
materials and sustainable practices in the production of Kashmiri
crafts. Given the growing demand for environmentally conscious products, these policies ensure that
Kashmiri handicrafts
are produced using sustainable methods, reducing their carbon footprint.
The adoption of sustainable practices benefits the
environment while preserving the traditional methods of craftsmanship.
For instance, the use of natural dyes in Pashmina shawls or sourcing wood from sustainable forests for
Khatamband woodwork
aligns with global environmental standards and appeals to environmentally conscious consumers.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate
Change in India enforces environmental regulations related to the
handicraft sector, ensuring that artisans comply with sustainability standards. Research and Policy
Recommendations
