The Karkhandar Scheme plays an important role in supporting and growing the craft industry in Jammu and Kashmir. This scheme aims to improve the skills of local artisans and increase their income, helping them keep traditional crafts alive that are at risk of disappearing. Here you’ll find updated information about the scheme’s purpose, benefits, eligibility, financial help, and how to apply in 2025.
Overview of the Karkhandar Scheme 2025
The Karkhandar Scheme was started by the Jammu & Kashmir government to help artisans and revive the handicraft sector in the Union Territory. The Department of Handicrafts & Handloom in Kashmir manages the program. This scheme focuses on giving new life to old and fading crafts by providing training and financial support to artisans.
Main Highlights of the Karkhandar Scheme
| Name | Karkhandar Scheme |
| Launched by | Jammu and Kashmir Government |
| Handled by | Department of Handicrafts & Handloom, Kashmir |
| Region | Jammu and Kashmir |
| Beneficiaries | Local Handicraft Artisans |
| Main Aim | Support and help artisans |
Main Objectives of the Karkhandar Scheme
- Bring back forgotten crafts and techniques.
- Help artisans increase their income through teamwork.
- Provide better and modern ways to learn craft skills.
- Build links with producer groups to teach business and entrepreneurship.
Why the Karkhandar Scheme Is Needed?
Many artisans in Jammu and Kashmir face unfair challenges that make them leave their traditional work, leading to poverty and hopelessness. The Karkhandar Scheme works to break this cycle by improving their skills, increasing earnings, and teaching business skills so they can earn a steady livelihood.
Vision Behind the Karkhandar Scheme
This scheme focuses on crafts like walnut wood carving, silverwork, carpet weaving, Kani shawls, Khatamband woodwork, and Papier Machie. These crafts are facing a shortage of skilled workers. The scheme also supports other crafts as identified by the Handicrafts Department. There can be 1 to 5 training sessions per craft within six months depending on demand.
Financial Support under the Karkhandar Scheme
- Each trainee will get Rs. 2000 monthly as stipend. The payment is split into two parts: Rs. 1000 directly to the trainee’s bank account, and the remaining Rs. 1000 after successful training completion.
- Artisans who train others (Karkhandars) receive Rs. 2000 per trainee monthly for expenses plus honorarium after assessing skill levels.
Who Can Apply for the Karkhandar Scheme?
- Former trainees and new learners from coaching centers related to handicrafts.
- Large craft workshops (Karkhanas) should have around 10 trainees; small ones need a minimum of 5 trainees.
- Support is for crafts that need financial help.
- Artisans must live in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Note that some crafts which are still doing well may not be covered.
How to Apply for the Karkhandar Scheme
- Qualified trainees or past learners can register for the scheme using the provided forms.
- Registration cards will be given to trainees.
- Bank accounts will be opened for trainees under Jan Dhan Yojana to receive stipends.
- The Handicrafts Department will identify craft workshops willing to train registered artisans.
- A database of trainees including Aadhaar, EPIC, and bank details will be maintained.
- Selected Karkhandars provide necessary tools, space, and materials. They get Rs. 25,000 in two parts to cover logistics.
- After training, artisans can also form cooperatives with department support to keep growing their businesses.
The Karkhandar Scheme 2025 is a great chance for you if you are an artisan in Jammu and Kashmir. It offers support to learn, improve, and earn better through your craft. Make sure to check your eligibility and apply to benefit from this helpful scheme aimed at preserving heritage crafts and supporting local artists.