Budgam, Aug 8: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan on Saturday said that the digital integration of artisans including specially-abled craftsmen is opening new economic opportunities for craftsmen and is strengthening the handicrafts sector in Jammu and Kashmir. He said this while appreciating the “Training on Digital Literacy & Market Readiness” programme organised at Town Hall, Budgam, describing it as an inspiring example of convergence aimed at empowering the artisan community. The training was organised in collaboration with Special Hands of Kashmir under Artisan 2.0, a Conserve initiative for Artisans of Kashmir. Addressing the participants, the Deputy Commissioner said the future of handicrafts is bright, asserting traditional craftsmanship is effectively integrated with technology and modern market practices. Appreciating digital handicraft platforms, the Deputy Commissioner said, “digital tools can help craftsmen understand market trends, emerging designs, production techniques and changing consumer preferences while retaining the authenticity of their traditional work.”