Jammu, March 28, 2025 – Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary inaugurated a two-day workshop on Intellectual Property Rights , Trade, and Business Promotion in Jammu, organised by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with the Office of Development Commissioner MSME, Union Ministry for MSME. The event, held on Friday, underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering industrial growth, promoting local hiring, and ensuring brand protection in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking at the inauguration, Choudhary emphasized the administration’s focus on catalyzing the industrial ecosystem of the region. “Numerous interventions and policies are being implemented to prioritize the industrial growth of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said. “Our goal is to create an environment where the youth are inspired to establish their own units, driving job creation and boosting the local economy.” He highlighted the importance of IPR as a cornerstone for economic progress, urging businesses to leverage innovation and secure their intellectual assets for long-term success.
The workshop, moderated by Kanchan Zutshi, Director of PHDCCI, aims to enhance awareness and develop strategies for IPR, trade, and business promotion in Jammu and Kashmir. It saw participation from key figures, including MLA Khansahib Saifuddin Bhat, Commissioner Secretary of Industries and Commerce Vikramjit Singh, Director of Industries and Commerce Jammu Dr. Arun Manhas, prominent industrialists, and senior PHDCCI office bearers.
Commissioner Secretary Vikramjit Singh outlined government policies designed to spur industrial development, describing IPR as a vital tool for unlocking sustainable value. He encouraged entrepreneurs to invest in innovation and brand protection to strengthen their market presence. Similarly, Dr. Arun Manhas stressed the need for IPR awareness among local enterprises, noting its potential to drive sustainable industrial growth. He urged businesses to take advantage of government schemes for patenting and trademark registration.
Rakesh Wazir, Chairman of PHDCCI Jammu Chapter, delivered the opening address, emphasizing the pivotal role of branding, innovation, and IP protection in enhancing the competitiveness of businesses in the region. “PHDCCI is committed to empowering entrepreneurs and creating a thriving business ecosystem through effective IPR strategies,” Wazir said, urging participants to secure their intellectual property for enduring success.
The event aligns with the National IP Yatra Programme, which seeks to lay the groundwork for heightened IPR awareness, policy reforms, and proactive measures to strengthen the intellectual property framework in Jammu and Kashmir. Choudhary reiterated the government’s dedication to supporting local hiring and protecting indigenous brands, aligning these efforts with broader goals of economic upliftment and industrial advancement.
As the workshop progresses into its second day, it is expected to serve as a platform for stakeholders to collaborate on strategies that bolster trade, protect intellectual property, and promote business growth, reinforcing Jammu and Kashmir’s position as an emerging industrial hub.