Srinagar, May 6 (KNN) The Industries & Commerce Department of Jammu & Kashmir  is planning to set up Common Facilitation Centers for various sectors including handicrafts, sports goods and furniture items, a move aimed at promoting wood based industry in the region.

A Process-cum-Product Development Centre (PPDC) team from Meerut visited Kashmir to extend handholding support to MSMEs in the state.

The team held a meeting with Director Industries & Commerce Kashmir and Joint Director Handicrafts Kashmir to develop comprehensive plans for promotion of wood-based industries in Kashmir.

During the meeting, the PPDC team stressed upon exporting bats manufactured in the valley besides establishing training centres for entrepreneurs.

Director Industries & Commerce Kashmir Mahmood A. Shah assured full support from his Department for the initiative.

He said there is a need to give international exposure to the local entrepreneurs dealing with different sectors.

Meanwhile, the Joint Director of Handicrafts Kashmir said there is a need for design intervention in tools used by artisans. He said new tools need to be manufactured and provided to artisans dealing with wood-based industry.

Earlier, Assistant Director MSME apprised the team there is a lot of scope of improvement for wood-based industries in the valley.