POONCH, SEPTEMBER 02: An awareness programme on Branding and Marketing under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme was organized at Dak Bungalow, Poonch, with the objective of sensitizing artisans and other stakeholders about various government schemes, marketing opportunities and avenues available for strengthening their livelihoods.

General Manager, DIC, Naheem Un Nissa Bhatti addressed the participants and emphasized the importance of skill development, entrepreneurship, branding and effective marketing in improving the economic prospects of traditional artisans.

The programme commenced with a welcome address and brief introduction by Assistant Director, MSME-DFO Jammu, Vinu Jee Koul. Joint Director, MSME-DFO Jammu, Amit Kumar Tamaria also addressed the gathering.

During the technical session, Prof. Zaffar Iqbal of Government Degree College Poonch delivered an informative presentation on marketing and branding. Industry Promotion Officer Raman Jeet Singh apprised the participants about various schemes being implemented by the Department of Industries and Commerce, Jammu and Kashmir.

Assistant Director, Department of Handicrafts and Handloom, Poonch, Jyoti Choudhary highlighted the schemes and initiatives of the department, while District Nodal Officer, JKEDI Poonch, Aamir Shafiq, elaborated on the role of JKEDI in promoting skill development and entrepreneurship.

A dedicated session on the use of Artificial Intelligence tools for artisans was conducted by Ajay Pal Singh, Consultant, PMVK SLPMU, highlighting the potential of emerging technologies in improving branding, marketing and business activities.

Lead District Manager Sanjeev Kumar Rasotra provided detailed information regarding financial assistance and credit facilities available through banks. Senior Manager, IPPB, Anil Mathur also briefed the participants about IPPB services and QR code generation.

The programme concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, during which participants raised queries related to government schemes, financial assistance, marketing and entrepreneurship opportunities.

The vote of thanks was presented by Vinu Jee Koul.