Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday assured full government support for the protection and growth of Kashmir’s cricket bat industry, announcing measures to address issues related to willow plantation, power supply, infrastructure and ease of doing business.
During his visit to the Hallamulla Sangam Industrial Estate in Anantnag’s Bijbehara area, the Chief Minister interacted with members of the Cricket Bat Manufacturers Association and said the government would take all necessary steps to safeguard one of Jammu and Kashmir’s traditional industries.
He described the cricket bat industry as one of the region’s unique strengths, supported by locally available willow, skilled craftsmen and an established market across India and abroad.
Addressing concerns over the depletion of willow resources, Omar Abdullah said the government would promote scientific plantation and systematic replantation of willow trees to ensure a sustainable supply of raw material. He also said improved willow varieties would be explored to secure the industry’s future.
The Chief Minister assured manufacturers that effective measures would be taken to curb the illegal movement of willow clefts by strengthening monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.
He also announced that proposals to improve electricity supply to the industrial estate would be taken up with the Power Development Department. In addition, he assured better medical facilities for workers, establishment of a Fire and Emergency Services unit and revival of a Common Treatment Facility Centre after examining its feasibility.
The Chief Minister directed the Industries Department to simplify procedural requirements and remove unnecessary bottlenecks to facilitate the smooth functioning and expansion of the industry.
Later, Omar Abdullah visited a cricket bat manufacturing unit, interacted with workers and artisans, observed the manufacturing process and appreciated their craftsmanship, reiterating the government’s commitment to preserving Kashmir’s globally recognised cricket bat industry.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Forest Minister Javed Ahmed Rana, MLA Dr. Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri and senior officers accompanied the Chief Minister during the visit.(KINS)
