The Government of India has listed the ‘Kashmir Willow Cricket Bat’ as part of the handicraft industry. This significant step, formalised through the Ministry of Textiles, will not only benefit bat manufacturers and artisans across the valley but will also contribute to the long-term growth of this traditional craft.
By including Kashmir Willow Cricket bats in the category of notified handicrafts, bat-makers can now benefit from schemes and welfare measures under the National Handicraft Development Programme (NHDP) and the Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme (CHCDS). The revised list of handicrafts aims to enhance the coverage of all crafts practiced across India, thus addressing the challenges and difficulties faced by artisans. The order facilitates the issuance and renewal of Pahchan ID cards for artisans, improving access to government support, incentives, and training.
”Handicraft Department including Kashmir Willow bat as a handicraft item, since the international professional cricket bat is handmade only and made with hand tools, it has brought joy to the industry, and it will bring glory. We were taken care by industries and commerce department only but now since Kashmir Willow will be showcased on platforms where Kashmiri art is being displayed across exhibitions across the globe. The world knows Kashmir is an art place and now we will have stalls next to Kashmiri arts, the world will come to know about Kashmir cricket bats, and it will help the artisans,” said Vice President and spokesperson of CBMAK, Fawzul Kabiir.
The Kashmir cricket bat industry, primarily based in Anantnag and Pulwama districts, is home to over 400 manufacturing units and supports the livelihood of thousands of skilled artisans. These artisans transform locally sourced Kashmir willow into premium quality bats, which have gained global recognition for their craftsmanship. The sector not only contributes to local employment but also helps preserve a centuries-old tradition, blending artistry with sport.
The inclusion of willow bats in the official handicrafts list will ease the implementation of development schemes for the cricket bat industry and ensure greater participation from local artisans in skill enhancement programs. This step is expected to boost exports, strengthen the ‘Make in India’ initiative, and provide recognition to Kashmir’s unique contribution to the cricketing world.
”Bat manufacturing has been going on since 100 years and traditionally we have been making the bat with hand tools and now with the opening of the avenues for the artisans, it will entitle them to all the schemes of the government of India and the schemes that are in vogue from handicrafts and that’s how they will be benefitted. The Handicraft department realises the potential of Kashmir willow and In this regard, we have submitted a dossier for GI of Kashmir willow. We are expecting it to happen soon,” said Mahmood Ahmad Shah, Director Handicrafts, Kashmir.
The step taken by the Government of India is expected to replace the English willow bats with the Kashmir willow ones.
