Valley’s upcoming yarn dyeing facility to boost handicrafts sector

In a major fillip to Kashmir’s famed handicrafts, The Handicrafts and Handloom Department of Kashmir is set to commission a state-of-the-art Common Facility Centre (CFC) for yarn dyeing at the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT) in Nowshera, Srinagar, according to officials. The project, which is seen as a significant boost to Kashmir’s renowned handicrafts sector, has been constructed at a cost of Rs 2.59 crore.

An official statement described the facility as adhering to international standards and noted that it will be capable of dyeing various raw materials used in the region’s handicraft and handloom industries. The Common Facility Centre is expected to enhance the quality of crafted products and increase their marketability in niche global markets.

A spokesperson from the Handicrafts and Handloom Department explained that the Common Facility Centre will utilise 100% Azo-free chemical dyes and will be equipped with modern machinery, including dyeing machines with capacities ranging from five kg to 20 kg, suitable for dyeing silk, woollen, cotton, and viscose yarns.

“It will also have a water softening system, dryers, hydro extractors, washing machines, and two mini boilers, along with an effluent treatment plant,” the spokesman said.

The facility will feature a dye house capable of dyeing up to 250 kg of silk, wool, and cotton yarn in hank form daily using various dyeing machines. Additionally, the CFC will offer a natural dyeing facility for up to seven kg of pashmina daily, using a Soft Flow Dyeing Machine.

The spokesperson further advised stakeholders to contact the Director of IICT to access the dyeing services for all types of yarn in hank form, available at nominal rates.