Kashmir steps up QR certification and inspections to counter fake handicrafts
Authorities are targeting machine-made carpets, shawls and wood carvings sold as handmade, seeking to protect consumer trust, artisan incomes and export value. The sector supports about 4.45 lakh artisans, with more than 51,000 shawls and nearly 20,000 hand-knotted carpets certified.
Kashmir authorities are intensifying showroom inspections and QR-based certification to curb machine-made carpets, shawls and wood carvings sold as handmade. Counterfeiting threatens artisan livelihoods, consumer trust and export value in a sector supporting nearly 4.45 lakh craftspeople.