• The Namda craft of Kashmir is being successfully revived under a Skill India’s Pilot Project as part of the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), with nearly 2,200 candidates from across six districts of the state, receiving training in the dying art form.

ABOUT NAMDA ART

• Namda craft is a rug made of sheep wool through felting technique instead of normal weaving process.
• Namda Art is said to have begun when Mughal Emperor Akbar wanted to get a covering for his horses to protect them from the cold.
• It originated in the 16^th century and was introduced by a Sufi saint named Shah-e-Hamdan.
• Namda works are used in the form of carpets, rugs, floor mats and are used as floor coverings and home decor.