By Shishir Prashant 
PrashantNews
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday assured comprehensive government support to Kashmir’s cricket bat manufacturing industry during a visit to the Industrial Estate at Sangam in Anantnag district where he reviewed the challenges confronting the sector and directed officials to take immediate measures.
Interacting with members of the Cricket Bat Manufacturers Association and local entrepreneurs, Abdullah reviewed issues affecting one of the Valley’s most prominent traditional industries, which is known for producing high-quality cricket bats from Kashmir willow and provides employment to thousands of workers.
Following the meeting, the Chief Minister said the government was committed to ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of the industry. He said discussions focused on ensuring a sustainable supply of raw material, safeguarding the interests of local manufacturers, improving workers’ safety and working conditions, and upgrading infrastructure at the industrial estate.
Abdullah said he had directed the concerned departments to address the issues raised by the Cricket Bat Manufacturers Association on a priority basis and adopt a coordinated approach to resolve them. He stressed that the administration would work closely with all stakeholders to strengthen the sector and remove bottlenecks affecting its growth.
The Chief Minister noted that the cricket bat industry is not only an important contributor to Jammu and Kashmir’s economy but also plays a significant role in generating employment and preserving the region’s traditional craftsmanship. He emphasised that improving infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted availability of quality raw material and creating better working conditions would help enhance the competitiveness of Kashmir-made cricket bats in domestic and international markets.
The visit reflects the Omar Abdullah government’s renewed focus on reviving traditional industries and promoting sustainable industrial development while protecting the livelihoods of thousands of families dependent on the iconic Kashmir willow cricket bat industry.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Chowdhary, Minister Javed Rana and Srigufwara-Bijbehara MLA Dr. Bashir Ahmad Veeri during the visit.