SRINAGAR, OCT 27: Srinagar Police, under its Civic Action Programme (CAP) 2026–27, organised a Farmers and Artisans Exhibition at Government Degree College Batapora on October 24, providing a platform for local farmers and artisans to showcase agricultural produce, traditional handicrafts, handloom products and indigenous skills. The initiative aimed to promote local livelihoods, preserve Kashmir’s traditional craftsmanship, encourage self-reliance and strengthen police-public relations through community-oriented engagement.
Organised by the Hazratbal Zone as part of the birth anniversary celebrations of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the exhibition highlighted the contribution of farmers and artisans to the region’s economy and cultural heritage. It also sought to encourage greater appreciation of locally produced goods and traditional skills among students and members of the public.
The programme was held under the supervision of SP Hazratbal, accompanied by SDPO Zakura and the Station House Officers of Police Stations Zakura and Nigeen. A large number of students and prominent citizens participated, making the exhibition an opportunity for interaction between local producers, educational institutions and the wider community.
Several stalls were established on the college premises, displaying locally grown agricultural produce, handicrafts, handloom products and traditional artisan items. The exhibits reflected the diversity of local skills and products, while providing participating farmers and craftspeople with an opportunity to showcase their work before visitors. The displays received appreciation from those attending the event.
Beyond showcasing products, the initiative underscored the importance of supporting local producers and preserving traditional occupations that contribute to Kashmir’s economic and cultural identity. By bringing farmers and artisans into a common public platform, the exhibition encouraged recognition of their skills and highlighted the potential of community-level initiatives to promote local enterprise and self-reliance.
Addressing the gathering, SP Hazratbal outlined the objectives of the Civic Action Programme and emphasised that policing also involves constructive engagement with society, encouraging youth participation and supporting initiatives that benefit local communities.
He highlighted the importance of activities that promote traditional craftsmanship, create awareness about local agricultural resources and strengthen public confidence in the police. Such programmes, he noted, provide opportunities to build meaningful connections between police personnel and citizens while encouraging cooperation, social participation and community development.
The participation of students was another important aspect of the event, offering young people an opportunity to familiarise themselves with Kashmir’s agricultural potential, handloom traditions and handicraft heritage. The initiative also reinforced the importance of preserving indigenous skills and encouraging future generations to appreciate locally produced goods.
Principal Government Degree College Batapora, Syed Iffat Ara, expressed gratitude to Srinagar Police for choosing the institution as the venue and providing local farmers and artisans with an opportunity to display their products and craftsmanship. She appreciated the initiative for bringing community stakeholders together and recognising the contribution of local talent.
The programme concluded with the distribution of mementos and certificates of appreciation among participants in recognition of their contribution to the exhibition.
Through the event, Srinagar Police reaffirmed its commitment to community-oriented policing under the Civic Action Programme 2026–27. The initiative reflected an effort to complement its law-and-order responsibilities with public engagement, promotion of local livelihoods and preservation of traditional skills, while fostering stronger police-community relations across the region.
