The Indian government has officially recognized the ‘Kashmir Willow Cricket Bat’ as a handicraft item, bringing a big boost to the artisans and manufacturers in Jammu and Kashmir. This step, taken by the Ministry of Textiles, is aimed at helping the Kashmir willow bat industry grow and become competitive with the famous English willow cricket bats used worldwide.

A group of journalists from Hyderabad recently visited the Kashmir willow cricket bat manufacturing unit located in Halamulla, Bijbehara. During their visit, they were given a deeper understanding of how the industry operates and learned about the craftsmanship involved in making these bats.

The Vice President of the Cricket Bat Manufacturers Association of Kashmir (CBMAK), Fawzul Kabiir, who is also the Managing Director of GR8 Sports, welcomed the visiting media group. He expressed that the international recognition of Kashmir willow cricket bats is growing.

By officially including the willow bats as a handicraft, the government will now be able to offer better development programs for the cricket bat industry. This will also encourage more local artisans to participate in skill-building initiatives. The decision is expected to increase exports, boost India’s ‘Make in India’ campaign, and highlight Kashmir’s special contribution to the cricket world.

Bat manufacturers will now be eligible for financial help, training, and welfare benefits through programs like the National Handicrafts Development Program (NHDP) and the Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme (CHCDS).

Fawzul Kabiir expressed his gratitude, saying, “We are thankful to the Government of India and the Handloom & Handicrafts Department of J&K for recognizing the skill involved in making Kashmir willow cricket bats. This recognition will open new opportunities for our artisans, ensuring they have financial security while promoting our products both in India and globally.”

He also thanked the Ministry of Textiles for this important decision, which will provide access to more resources and help preserve the heritage of Kashmir’s cricket bat-making tradition.

The Kashmir cricket bat industry is mainly located in the Anantnag and Pulwama districts, with over 400 manufacturing units providing jobs for thousands of skilled workers. These artisans use locally sourced Kashmir willow to make high-quality cricket bats that are admired worldwide for their craftsmanship. The industry not only supports local employment but also helps keep alive an age-old tradition that blends artistry with sports.

The media delegation visiting Jammu & Kashmir was part of a Media Outreach Program organized by PIB Hyderabad. Over several days, they explored different developmental projects and initiatives shaping the future of Jammu & Kashmir through various field visits and discussions.