Finally, Farooq Ahmad Mir, an unsung hero of Kashmir, has been conferred with the Padma Shri award for his work in the promotion of Kani-shawl at both the national and international levels. The work of this reputed weaver was recognized after almost 60 years, even though he was felicitated in the past by the Prime Minister in 2015. This author wrote about his work last year in June when Srinagar was recognized as a World Craft City by the renowned international organization, the World Craft Council. The Ministry of Home Affairs made an announcement about the 2025 Padma awardees on January 25, 2025, and Farooq Ahmad Mir’s name appeared on this list.

About the Padma Awards

The Padma Awards, one of the highest civilian awards in the country, are conferred in three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. The awards are given in various disciplines/fields, including art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil service, etc. ‘Padma Vibhushan’ is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service; ‘Padma Bhushan’ for distinguished service of a high order; and ‘Padma Shri’ for distinguished service in any field. The awards are announced on the occasion of Republic Day each year and conferred by the President of India at ceremonial functions held at Rashtrapati Bhawan, usually around March or April. For 2025, the President approved the conferment of 139 Padma Awards: 7 Padma Vibhushan, 19 Padma Bhushan, and 113 Padma Shri awards. The list includes 23 women, 10 persons from the category of Foreigners/NRI/PIO/OCI, and 13 posthumous awardees.

Who is Farooq Ahmad Mir?

Farooq Ahmad Mir is a 6th-generation artisan from Srinagar’s........

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