CM Omar Abdullah Calls on Investors to Unlock J&K’s Industrial Potential
Addresses 4th Meeting of CII Northern Regional Council 2025-26 in Srinagar
SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today urged industry leaders to complement Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism success with robust industrial growth, highlighting the region as a promising destination for investment.
Addressing the 4th meeting of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Northern Regional Council 2025-26 in Srinagar, the Chief Minister acknowledged that recent focus has largely been on tourism, while industrial development has lagged. He assured stakeholders that the government is committed to strengthening the investment ecosystem across J&K.
“Tourism is one part of our growth story, but industrialisation requires equal attention,” Omar Abdullah said. “Jammu and Kashmir remains attractive for investment despite challenges, and we are determined to make it easier and more rewarding for businesses to operate here.”
The Chief Minister outlined ongoing investments and incentives, noting that industrial hubs such as Kathua, Samba, Bari Brahmana in Jammu, and Lassipora in Kashmir continue to attract significant capital. He also acknowledged gaps in the single-window clearance system, promising reforms:
“We must ensure that our ‘single window’ is truly a single window, not a system that leads nowhere. I have directed the Industries Department to engage directly with investors and address any shortcomings.”
Highlighting J&K’s competitive advantages, Omar Abdullah cited lower land and electricity costs, GST reimbursement benefits, and a skilled workforce. He encouraged investment in sectors where the region has inherent strengths and stressed exploring opportunities beyond subsidy-driven models.
On peace and security perceptions, he clarified: “J&K today is calm, peaceful, and open for business. Tragic incidents like the one at Pahalgam are aberrations, not the norm, and measures are in place to prevent recurrence.”
The Chief Minister underscored opportunities in agriculture, horticulture, and dairy processing, noting that only 4% of milk in Kashmir is processed compared to 80% in Gujarat, emphasizing the potential for value addition.
Addressing unemployment, he said: “Industrialisation and tourism together must create new avenues of employment for our youth, rather than relying solely on government jobs.”
He also called for candid feedback from CII members to improve the business environment: “Those investing in J&K, tell us what went well and what hasn’t. Those hesitant, tell us why—noting that if it’s within our power, we will address it.”
The event featured addresses by CII Northern Region Chairperson Anjali Singh, CII Delhi State Council Chairman Puneet Kaura, Vice Chairman CII J&K Council MA Alim, and CII Northern Region Director Rachna Jindal, with wide participation from industry leaders.
The Chief Minister thanked CII for hosting the meeting in Srinagar and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to facilitating investment, promoting value addition, and building a sustainable industrial ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.
