Lahore: Commissioner Bahawalpur Division Irfan Ali Kathia visited the handicrafts office near Farid Gate and Sanatzar near Library Chowk to review the production, promotion and marketing of locally made handicrafts and the progress of a display centre being established at Sanatzar.
During his visit to the handicrafts office, Director Small Industries Estate Rao Munir briefed the commissioner on the quality, marketing and sale of handicraft products prepared by local artisans. Commissioner Kathia inspected various wooden handicraft items and took keen interest in the traditional skills and craftsmanship involved in their production.
He said Bahawalpur’s handicrafts were an important expression of the region’s cultural identity, traditional skills and centuries-old craftsmanship. He directed the relevant authorities to take practical measures to promote local handicrafts, create better opportunities for artisans and improve marketing strategies to introduce the products to wider markets.
The commissioner said high-quality and aesthetically appealing handicrafts not only reflected local culture but could also generate employment and contribute to the economic empowerment of artisans. He stressed the need to maintain product quality and develop effective marketing mechanisms.
Later, Commissioner Kathia visited Sanatzar and inspected the ongoing construction of a display centre. Divisional Director Social Welfare Sahar Siddiqua briefed him on the progress of work, expected completion timeline and arrangements for making the facility operational.
The commissioner directed officials to complete the remaining construction work within the stipulated timeframe and make the centre operational at the earliest. He also ordered that all necessary arrangements be ensured for its effective functioning and that the facility be completed in a modern and well-organised manner.
According to the briefing, the display centre will showcase sewing, embroidery and other handicraft products prepared at Sanatzar, enabling visitors to view the products in an attractive and organised setting. Officials said the facility would help promote and sell Sanatzar products and introduce them to a broader customer base.
Commissioner Kathia said Sanatzar was playing an important role in imparting vocational skills to women, promoting their creative abilities and supporting their economic empowerment. He directed authorities to highlight the quality and aesthetic appeal of Sanatzar products and the skills and hard work of the women producing them.
He added that, alongside providing better facilities to citizens, the administration would take steps to promote locally manufactured products on a wider scale.
Assistant Commissioner Bahawalpur City Iqra Mubeen, Divisional Director Social Welfare Sahar Siddiqua, Deputy Director Development, Deputy Director Social Welfare Muhammad Uzair and other relevant officers were present during the visits.
