Exhibition of handicrafts from across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was organized by the Handicrafts Association of Pakistan in collaboration with the Youth Directorate of KP at the prestigious Centaurus Mall Islamabad.
Young Artisans from across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa participated at the event to showcase crafts locally sourced and made in their areas, says a press release. These included straw baskets ,truck art ,leather ,gemstones and local embroidered suits.
The event was an excellent opportunity for artisans to attract buyers from the federal capital and gain exposure where they also had the opportunity to get orders from international firms as trade attache of diplomatic enclave were also in attendance. Prominent among were SardarIllyas Khan, CEO of Centaurus,President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry AhsanBakhtarwee and Chairperson KPBOIT Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Board of Investment & Trade Engr Said Khan.
A large number of Diplomats and dignitaries from different walks of life were also in attendance. Chairperson Handicrafts Association of Pakistan Miss Maryam Iqbal stated that the handicrafts industry has been a neglected industry whereas it has a lot of potential.
Artisans should be encouraged by offering opportunities and financial support to display their art and products in exhibitions A developed handicrafts sector in Pakistan could guarantee a handsome contribution to GDP; investment opportunities; enhanced foreign exchange earnings; cultural preservation, entrepreneurial development, and alleviation of poverty. Pakistan is bestowed with the artisans rich in texturing and elegant handicrafts that have a lucrative global demand.
The only thing needed is to ensure that production is being done in a systematic and cost-effective way. For instance, Balochistan is the major producer of salt items, leatherwork, sheepskin items, and mats. Ajrak, Ralli, Sasi, Khadi and the ceramic work of Sindh reflect a serene picture of the skill of artisans.
