RCMC – Directorate of Handicrafts, Jammu and Kashmir: Promoting Handicraft Exports from the Region
Introduction
The handicraft industry of Jammu and Kashmir is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and rich cultural heritage, contributing significantly to the socio-economic fabric of the region. To support the growth and export of handicrafts from Jammu and Kashmir, the Government has established the Directorate of Handicrafts which acts as a nodal agency facilitating the artisans and exporters.
One essential certification required by exporters is the Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) issued by the Directorate of Handicrafts. This certificate allows exporters to legally access government benefits and participate in export promotion activities.
This blog discusses the role of the Directorate of Handicrafts in Jammu and Kashmir, the necessity of RCMC, its benefits to exporters, challenges in obtaining it, and concludes on the importance of the certification for growing handicraft exports.
What is the Directorate of Handicrafts, Jammu and Kashmir and RCMC?
Directorate of Handicrafts, Jammu and Kashmir
The Directorate of Handicrafts is a government department dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and market development of handicraft products from Jammu and Kashmir. It provides artisans and exporters technical support, training, infrastructure facilitation, quality control, and marketing assistance. The Directorate also collaborates with national and international agencies to promote handicraft exports.
Why is RCMC from the Directorate of Handicrafts Necessary?
Regulatory Compliance
The Directorate of Handicrafts requires exporters to obtain RCMC to comply with India’s Foreign Trade Policy and DGFT regulations. This ensures that only registered and eligible exporters access export incentives.
Eligibility for Export Benefits and Incentives
RCMC holders can access government schemes such as:
- Market Development Assistance (MDA)
- Market Access Initiative (MAI)
- Duty Drawback schemes
These subsidies help reduce export costs and enhance competitiveness in international markets.
Building Exporter Credibility
Holding an RCMC provides greater credibility with buyers, financial institutions, and customs authorities, enabling smoother international trade transactions.
Access to Trade Promotion Programs
Only RCMC holders may participate in international trade fairs, buyer-seller meets, exhibitions, and export delegations organized or supported by the Directorate of Handicrafts.
Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC)
The RCMC is an official membership certificate that certifies an exporter’s registration under the Foreign Trade Policy of India, issued by the Directorate of Handicrafts in Jammu and Kashmir or sanctioned export councils. It is mandatory for exporters seeking government export benefits and to participate in handicraft export promotion schemes.
Benefits of RCMC for Handicraft Exporters
Access to Government Export Incentives
RCMC membership allows exporters to claim financial assistance in order to boost international marketing and global business expansion.
Participation in International Trade Shows
The Directorate of Handicrafts facilitates exporters’ participation in prominent global handicraft fairs, enhancing visibility and buyer outreach.
Export Documentation and Quality Compliance
Support in acquiring export documentation, ensuring quality certifications and adherence to international standards helps reduce technical barriers to trade.
Market Intelligence and Export Strategy Support
Exporters benefit from updated market trends, tariff notifications, policy changes, and research data that aid in strategic decisions.
Capacity Building and Skill Development Programs
Workshops and training sessions provided by the Directorate empower exporters and artisans with skills on packaging, product design, and quality control.
Policy Advocacy and Export Facilitation
The Directorate liaises with state and central government authorities to represent exporter interests and facilitate export-friendly policies.
Challenges in Obtaining RCMC from the Directorate of Handicrafts
Documentation and Administrative Formalities
Applications require detailed paperwork including IEC, company registration, PAN, GST, export experience certificates that may be difficult for newcomers.
Timely Renewal and Compliance
Maintaining active status with proper export records and renewal on time is mandatory; delays may halt access to export benefits.
Product Eligibility and Classification
Exporters need to ensure their handicraft products meet the stipulated guidelines and fall within the Directorate’s purview to avoid application delays.
Processing Delays
Despite digital processing, verification and administrative checks may lead to delays in issuance of RCMC certificates.
Conclusion
The Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) issued by the Directorate of Handicrafts, Jammu and Kashmir is a crucial certification for exporters to access government incentives, trade promotion schemes, and build international market trust.
While procedural challenges such as documentation and renewal timelines exist, the benefits of RCMC membership—including subsidies, trade facilitation, capacity building, and policy advocacy—are instrumental for sustainable export growth.
Exporters from Jammu and Kashmir’s handicraft sector should prioritize obtaining and maintaining their RCMC to fully capitalize on export opportunities and reinforce India’s rich handicraft legacy globally.
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