Srinagar, February 15: A delegation from the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) participated in ‘Budget Pe Charcha 2025’ at the Amar Singh Club, Srinagar, hosted by Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju. The discussion focused on the recently announced Union Budget 2025 and its role in advancing India’s position as a global economic power.
The KCCI delegation, comprising Secretary General Faiz Ahmad Bakshi and Joint Secretary General Umar Nazir Tibetbaqal, welcomed the budget’s progressive steps in agriculture, infrastructure, and income tax exemption limits, which they believe will provide much-needed relief to the middle-income group and stimulate economic activity.
During the interactive session, KCCI acknowledged the growth in SGDP, tourism, and horticulture in Jammu & Kashmir over the past few years. However, they raised several pressing concerns, particularly the alarming unemployment rate of 32.8% in Jammu & Kashmir, citing data from the Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. The delegation urged the Central Government to introduce focused schemes to create sustainable livelihood opportunities for the youth.
KCCI expressed concern over the decline of Kashmir’s traditional handicrafts sector, emphasizing its economic and cultural significance. They called for better market access at national and international levels to revive the industry. The delegation also stressed the importance of skill development, IT startups, entrepreneurship, and the Ease of Doing Business. They urged the government to establish dedicated programs and incentives for industries, with a special focus on women entrepreneurs and agricultural innovation.
The need for improved infrastructure was another key issue raised during the discussion. KCCI pressed for the operation of international flights, upgrades at Srinagar Airport, and the development of new tourist destinations. They also emphasized the urgency of effective waste management, environmental conservation efforts, and increased awareness programs on government schemes that remain underutilized.
Additionally, the delegation highlighted the loss of open spaces in urban areas and its impact on rising drug addiction rates among the youth. They called for investment in recreational spaces and preventive measures to address the issue. The discussion also touched upon concerns related to the health and education sectors, underscoring the need for better facilities and targeted policies to address existing gaps.
Minister Kiren Rijiju assured the delegation that the budget remains flexible and responsive to public needs. He stated that the concerns raised would be carefully considered and that the government is committed to fostering economic growth in Jammu & Kashmir.
KCCI emphasized that while many of these issues fall under the UT Government’s jurisdiction, their appeal was aimed at securing generous Central Government funding for Jammu & Kashmir’s development. The delegation thanked Minister Rijiju for providing an open platform for dialogue and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the government’s vision of a $5 trillion economy while ensuring that Jammu & Kashmir’s specific needs are met.