Omar Abdullah Reaffirms Commitment to Boost Investment and Manufacturing in J&K
Addresses FIEO’s Interactive Session in Srinagar
SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday reiterated his government’s resolve to address infrastructural gaps and other constraints to make Jammu and Kashmir a more attractive destination for investment and manufacturing.
Speaking at an interactive session with the Federation of Indian Export Organizations (FIEO) in Srinagar, the Chief Minister welcomed the visiting delegation led by FIEO President S.C. Ralhan, Vice President Shrikant Kapoor, Director General & CEO Ajay Sahai, along with regional chairpersons, past presidents, board members and other dignitaries.
Describing FIEO’s decision to hold its Board of Management meeting in Srinagar as “an important vote of confidence” in the region, Omar Abdullah said, “Your presence here is very reassuring for us. Jammu and Kashmir deeply values its long-standing association with India’s trade and export community.”
He outlined the government’s ongoing efforts to attract greater investment and expand the manufacturing base in the Union Territory. “We are consciously working to address infrastructural deficiencies so that we can draw more investment into Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Acknowledging the region’s unique challenges stemming from geography and limited resources, the Chief Minister emphasized the government’s focus on sectors where J&K holds natural advantages — including agriculture, horticulture, handicrafts, pharmaceuticals, IT services, and electronics.
Highlighting the importance of confidence in fostering business growth, he said, “Confidence is one of the most vital elements for business, and unfortunately, Jammu and Kashmir has been deprived of it for the past three decades. We are determined to ensure that this lack of confidence does not define our future.”
Despite challenges, Omar Abdullah noted the resilience of the local economy. “Given the disadvantages inherent in doing business here, our economy continues to grow steadily. Our own estimates suggest GDP growth in double digits — around 10–11% this year,” he said.
He, however, expressed concern over the recent downturn in tourism, pointing out that the impact has also affected agriculture, horticulture, handicrafts, and exports.
The Chief Minister said the government is prioritizing the development of Jammu and Kashmir as a hub for MSMEs and high-value, low-volume industries. He recalled that prior to the onset of militancy in 1989, Kashmir had begun emerging as a centre for high-tech manufacturing. “We believe these areas remain ripe for revitalization,” he added.
Citing several advantages that could spur industrial growth — such as competitive electricity rates, a skilled young workforce, and favourable policy frameworks — Omar Abdullah stressed the need to change the perception of J&K as a risky business destination.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister thanked the FIEO delegation for their visit, remarking:
“Your presence here helps us challenge outdated perceptions about Jammu and Kashmir being unsafe. I thank all of you for choosing Srinagar for your meeting and look forward to more such engagements that can help J&K move forward.”
