The Traders’ Conclave – 2025, held at SKICC Srinagar and addressed by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, placed a spotlight on Jammu & Kashmir’s economic priorities. With a particular focus on handicrafts, trade and tourism, the event discussed actionable steps aimed at improving local industries and creating space for sustainable economic growth. The Minister’s engagements with the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the MSME Development Forum highlighted key concerns and brought them into a wider national conversation. One of the central themes of the conclave was the value of Kashmir’s traditional industries. The demand for easing GST rules on handicrafts was taken up during the discussions. These crafts—such as Pashmina shawls, carpets, papier-mâché, and walnut wood carvings—are not only labour-intensive but also heavily tied to Kashmir’s identity. Streamlining tax structures and improving packaging infrastructure can allow these sectors to reach new markets without compromising on authenticity. Goyal’s announcement regarding the fast-tracking of a regional packaging centre in Kashmir aims to address one of the long-standing barriers to competitiveness faced by artisans. In reference to the tourism sector, Goyal urged continued investment in infrastructure. The recent start of the Vande Bharat Express in Kashmir and the completion of connectivity projects like the Chenab and Anji bridges, the Peer Ki Gali tunnel, and the USBRL railway corridor mark real changes in how accessible the UT is to travellers. Kashmir’s growing network of homestays was acknowledged as a meaningful development in tourism. These provide both livelihood to locals and authentic experiences to visitors. Encouraging these small enterprises helps build a tourism model that is inclusive and rooted in community benefit. The Minister also highlighted how global attention to “Made in India” products gives a boost to local craft industries. Citing an example of a Kashmiri Pashmina shawl being gifted by the Prime Minister to the President of Ghana, he underlined how handcrafted products are gaining recognition abroad. The conclave also took note of broader trade and industrial concerns. The proposal to establish a solar power project in Lassipora Industrial Estate is a step towards making production more efficient and less dependent on traditional energy sources. This would directly support the manufacturing ecosystem in the region, particularly small and medium enterprises. Another subject that came up was support for startups and innovation. The proposal for a Centre of Excellence to promote startup culture and R&D, particularly in agriculture, was received positively. Goyal urged collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture to take this further. This kind of targeted institutional support can help entrepreneurs, especially in border districts and remote areas, to access tools and platforms needed to grow their ventures. Through entrepreneurship cells, skilling programs, and digital infrastructure, the government is trying to build a stronger connection between trade and youth engagement. The emphasis on digital platforms for grievance redressal and trade facilitation is an attempt to simplify businesses. The conclave ended with a shared understanding of what needs to be done: improved trade conditions, wider markets for local goods, greater tourism outreach and youth participation in enterprise.
Craft Commerce
