GST Cut On ‘Pashmina’ Boosts J&K’s Traditional Handicraft, Entrepreneurship: Dr Jitendra

NEW DELHI  : Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences; and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh said here on Tuesday that the Modi Government’s decision to reduce GST on “Pashmina” products to 5% had not only boosted a very important and historic traditional handicraft of Jammu & Kashmir, but also increased the business potential for for artisans and entrepreneurs.
During a visit to the 2-day “The Splendor of Kashmir” Exhibition organised at the national capital with the support of FICCI-FLO, when the Minister asked the Founder and Curator of “The Splendor of Kashmir”, Varuna Anand about the difference after the reduced GST rates came into effect from 22nd of September, he was told that within a short span of just about three weeks, the sale had gone up multiple times.
Dr Jitendra Singh said, PM Narendra Modi’s decision to reduce GST tax, has exposed the new generation and the youngsters to the versatile grandeur and beauty of Pashmina and at the same time, encouraged new entrepreneurs to take to this vocation.
Lauding Varuna Anand and her team for this successful venture, Dr Jitendra Singh observed that this was one of the finest examples of women-led entrepreneurship and noted that while on PM Modi’s call from the Red Fort, the number of StartUps in the country had gone up from around 350 to over 1.7 lakh, what is significant is that nearly 60,000 of these are women-led and many from Tier 2 and 3 cities.
The exhibition, curated by Varuna Anand, Founder of The Splendor of Kashmir, showcases the rich legacy of handcrafted Pashmina shawls and traditional Kashmiri textiles, representing the centuries-old artistry of the Valley.
While interacting with the founder Varuna Anand, Dr. Jitendra Singh appreciated the intricate craftsmanship and the months of dedicated labour that go into the making of a single Pashmina shawl. He was briefed about the entire process, from the delicate hand-spinning of fine Pashmina yarn to the detailed embroidery that reflects the cultural heritage of Kashmir.
Varuna Anand highlighted that the recent reduction in GST on handmade shawls from the earlier 12–22% slab to 5% has given a significant boost to the traditional handicraft sector, enabling artisans to reach wider markets and enhance livelihoods.
Dr. Jitendra Singh commended the initiative for not only preserving India’s timeless craft traditions but also providing a platform for women entrepreneurs. This also reflects the growing contribution of women in shaping India’s innovation and economic landscape, he said.
The Minister further said that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of “Vocal for Local” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” is being effectively realized through such initiatives which combine tradition with entrepreneurship. He also encouraged the artisans and entrepreneurs to leverage digital platforms and e-commerce avenues to take India’s heritage products to the global stage.
Dr. Jitendra Singh congratulated Ms. Varuna Anand for her efforts in promoting Kashmir’s indigenous art forms and supporting local artisans through sustained marketing and capacity-building initiatives. He said such exhibitions not only celebrate India’s artistic excellence but also strengthen the spirit of women-led growth and self-reliance.