The Plight of Traditional Stone Carvers in Kashmir
Amidst the picturesque landscapes of Kashmir lies a tale of struggle and resilience, as the artisans of Gund Saderkoot in Bandipora face an uphill battle for their livelihood. A recent letter from the Joint Director of the Geology & Mining Department sheds light on the challenges faced by these traditional stone carvers.
A Call for Revival
The letter highlights a representation from the villagers of Gund Saderkoot regarding a quarry license application under SRO-105. It mentions the long-standing tradition of stone chiselling on common land, known as Shamilaat, and the royalties paid to the department by the villagers. The District Mineral Officer proposed reviving this traditional art of chiselling, emphasizing its potential to provide employment opportunities and benefit the public.
The Roadblocks
Despite the recommendations, the artisans lament the continued mining restrictions that have left them without work, leading to frustration and uncertainty. The department’s inability to grant quarry licenses to ancestral holders due to specific mineral composition requirements has added to the challenges faced by the community.
A Proposal for Change
In response to the crisis, a detailed proposal has been put forth to amend the existing rules and allow controlled quarrying in ancestral areas. Inspired by Gujarat’s model, the proposal aims to categorize qualifying limestone as “Dimensional Stones” and restrict extraction to manual methods, all while ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
A Call to Action
The proposal underscores the constitutional duties to protect the right to livelihood and work, pointing to the vast limestone reserves in Kashmir and the potential benefits of controlled quarrying. It emphasizes the need for sustainable solutions to support the traditional art of stone carving in the region.
Awaiting Change
Despite the proactive measures proposed, the awaited revival of traditional stone carving in Gund Saderkoot remains elusive. The efforts to address the crisis through committees and reviews have yet to materialize, leaving the artisans and their families in limbo.
A Glimmer of Hope
In a recent development, the Jammu & Kashmir government has formed a high-level committee to explore reviving traditional stone quarrying in various sites, including Saderkoot Bala and Panthachowk. The committee is tasked with reviewing legal frameworks, assessing environmental impacts, and recommending a clear path forward.
Looking Towards the Future
As the committee works towards finding sustainable solutions for the traditional stone carvers of Kashmir, the artisans of Gund Saderkoot continue to wait for a resolution to their plight. The need for timely action and support for these artisans is crucial to preserving this centuries-old craft and ensuring a sustainable livelihood for future generations.
