Poonch, August 31: The weeklong workshop on Sericulture and Cocoon Artistry, organized by the Indian Army in collaboration with Dr. Rubia Bukhari’s Cocoon Artistry Initiative under OP Sadhbhavna, concluded here today at SKC-GDC Poonch. The valedictory function celebrated the achievements of the participants and highlighted the workshop’s impact on revitalizing traditional crafts in the region.
Principal SKC-Goverment Degree College Poonch graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Dr. Rubia Bukhari, the founder of the Cocoon Artistry Initiative in her address praised the dedication and enthusiasm of the participants, stating, “This week has been a testament to the power of collaboration and community spirit. The skills and knowledge gained here are not just tools for personal growth, but for the collective upliftment of our region. I am deeply moved by the commitment shown by each participant and I am confident that they will become the torchbearers of this initiative, bringing renewed life to the art of sericulture and cocoon artistry.”
The Principal of SKC-GDC Poonch addressed the gathering, applauding the fruitful collaboration between the Indian Army and Dr. Bukhari’s initiative. He remarked, “This workshop has not only equipped our students with valuable skills but has also instilled in them a sense of pride in our rich cultural traditions. It is our hope that they will continue to pursue these crafts and contribute to the region’s socio-economic development.”
The function was marked by a series of presentations, showcasing the work done by the participants over the course of the workshop. Students from various educational institutions who attended the workshop demonstrated their newly acquired skills in cocoon artistry, receiving appreciation from the audience and the dignitaries present. Students of different educational institutions shared their views about the Workshop.
Officials from the Indian Army, in their closing remarks, emphasized the significance of the workshop in empowering the local youth and women by providing them with new avenues for economic independence. They expressed their gratitude to Dr. Bukhari for her relentless efforts in reviving these traditional crafts, which are an integral part of the cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
Ritika, a student of the Department of Sericulture at Poonch Campus, delivered the valedictory speech, reflecting on the transformative experience of the past week. She expressed her gratitude to the organizers and pledged to carry forward the knowledge and skills gained during the workshop.
The workshop concluded with the distribution of certificates to the participants, who were encouraged to continue their journey in sericulture and cocoon artistry, contributing to the preservation and promotion of these traditional crafts.
As the event came to a close, Dr. Bukhari reiterated her commitment to supporting the local community and expanding the reach of the Cocoon Artistry Initiative. She expressed optimism for the future, stating, “This is just the beginning. Together, we will continue to work towards a brighter future for the people of Rajouri and Poonch, empowering them through knowledge, skills and opportunities.
The valedictory function was attended by officials from the Indian Army, faculty members of SKC-GDC Poonch, and students from various institutions, marking the successful culmination of a week filled with learning, creativity and cultural revival.
