In a significant initiative aimed at reviving traditional pottery, strengthening rural livelihoods and promoting women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, on May 23 received 100 traditional clay flower pots prepared by women SHGs from Likir village.

The procurement order for the clay flower pots was placed at the direction of the Lieutenant Governor as part of efforts to support local artisans and strengthen livelihood opportunities in rural areas. In the first phase, 100 flower pots have been supplied by women SHGs from Likir, while an additional 125 clay pots are expected to be delivered in the coming weeks.

Likir village in Leh district has long been known for its skilled artisans and centuries-old tradition of clay pottery. However, over the years, local potters have received limited institutional support and continued to rely on traditional production techniques, restricting their ability to scale up production and expand market opportunities.

The latest initiative by the UT Administration is expected to provide a major boost to local pottery artisans and strengthen women SHGs engaged in traditional handicrafts and livelihood generation activities.

“The potters and artisans of Likir possess exceptional talent and represent an important part of Ladakh’s rich cultural heritage. Traditional pottery is not merely an occupation but a centuries-old legacy that must be preserved and promoted. The UT Administration is committed to supporting local artisans and women SHGs through infrastructure, training, market linkages and livelihood support so that these traditional skills flourish and provide sustainable economic opportunities to local communities,” said LG Saxena.

During the interaction, women potters requested additional logistical support such as kilns (Bhatti), clay mixer machines and specialised training programmes for women SHGs to further strengthen pottery production and improve product quality. The Lieutenant Governor assured them that the Administration would examine their requirements and extend all possible support to strengthen the traditional pottery sector in Ladakh.

During his tenure as Chairman of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), LG Saxena had visited Likir village in 2018 and played a key role in promoting traditional livelihoods in the region, particularly clay pottery. On September 27, 2018, he distributed 100 electric potter wheels among local artisans in Likir and also facilitated training programmes for artisans.

Since assuming office as Lieutenant Governor, Saxena has further initiated measures to support local artisans and generate livelihood opportunities through the promotion and procurement of locally manufactured products.