Ban on shahtoos to be taken up with PM

The shahtoos dealers complained that `misunderstandings’ have been created that shahtoos is procured after killing the `cheeru’ and they are being harassed outside the country, resulting in hardships to the shawl vendors.

The minister said measures will be taken to promote manufacture and marketing of export-oriented handicrafts, particularly pashmina shawls and carpets as this is imperative to revive state’s economy.

He said constant efforts would be made to provide raw material to the artisans at reasonable prices.

Rana said Central Silk Board is considering setting up of an integrated silk upgradation and modernisation project at a cost of Rs 5 crore in the state.