KASHMIR CARPET INDUSTRY: A centuries-old craft that once carried Kashmir's name to royal courts and luxury homes around the world is now facing a quiet decline.

The traditional handwoven carpet industry is struggling with low returns, an aging artisan workforce, declining interest among younger generations and pressure on overseas exports.

In Srinagar, elderly artisans are returning to their looms to keep the heritage craft alive. One 78-year-old weaver who stopped working in 2004 has returned to carpet weaving, while other experienced artisans continue working despite the industry's challenges.

Around 90% of Kashmir's carpets are exported, making the industry particularly vulnerable to changes in international markets and global conflicts. Industry representatives say exports have been affected, although the trade has not disappeared.

The government is now turning to technology and modernization to support the industry. Modern carpet looms are being provided free of cost, while geotagging is being introduced to authenticate genuine Kashmiri carpets. Approximately 20,000 carpets have reportedly been geotagged, allowing buyers to scan a barcode and verify a carpet's authenticity.

For Kashmir's carpet makers, the challenge is twofold: preserving the authenticity of a centuries-old tradition while ensuring that carpet weaving remains economically viable for a new generation.

KASHMIR CARPET CRISIS | Centuries-Old Handwoven Craft Faces Decline As Young Artisans Turn Away

The Jammu and Kashmir Police are investigating a 1990 double murder case involving a Kashmiri Pandit father-son duo.

The case relates to the killing of the father and son during a period of heightened violence and unrest in Jammu and Kashmir. The investigation is focused on establishing the circumstances surrounding the killings and identifying those responsible.

The development has once again brought attention to cases involving Kashmiri Pandits from the turbulent period of the 1990s and the continuing efforts to investigate unresolved cases.

Watch this space for the latest updates on the J&K Police investigation, the 1990 killings and developments in the case.

J&K Police Probe 1990 Killing of Kashmiri Pandit Father-Son Duo

It's A Working Monday In Jammu & Kashmir As Restrictions Are Being Eased In A Phased Manner.

WION Gravitas: Jammu & Kashmir slowly but surely on its way to normalcy

Government offices and schools reopened in India's Jammu and Kashmir with a mixed response on Monday (August 19), after two weeks of lockdown. Several areas of Jammu and Kashmir were facing a curfew-like situation after the administration imposed restrictions to curb violence in the valley, in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's decision to abrogate Article 370 and 35A, revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.

Kashmir schools, offices reopen amid tight security