JK handicrafts need good mkt strategies: Azad

Srinagar, June 4: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad has called for ''fine tuned strategies'' for boosting marketing of the world famous Kashmir handicrafts.

Mr Azad, who visited Kashmir government arts emporium to take stock of its functioning here last evening, said the arts emporium should be made an attractive tourist destination encouraging tourists of all interests to visit it.

He asked the departments concerned to ensure maximum tourist visits to the emporium.

Referring to the high marketing potential and popularity of the Kashmir handicrafts, Mr Azad underlined the need for roping in handicrafts corporations and other departments dealing in the field in various states for marketing of handicrafts and handloom products of the state.

''This could be achieved by taking up the matter with various state governments,'' he said adding that states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Kerala have great demand for these products.

Emphasising the need for expanding the infrastructure of the emporium, he appreciated the workmanship and quality of products and also lauded the performance of the corporation.

Managing Director Handicrafts Sales and Export Corporation A M Khanday told the Chief Minister that the corporation registered sales to the tune of Rs 10 crore during the last financial year while the target of Rs 12.27 crore has been fixed for the current fiscal.

He also apprised him about the roadmap for enhancing the turnover of the corporation.

UNI