SRINAGAR, JULY 28 — In a significant move towards fostering digital growth and innovation in Jammu and Kashmir, a team of top Google India executives met with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at his official residence on Sunday. The meeting focused on expanding digital literacy, e-governance, and youth employment opportunities in the region through technology-based solutions.
The delegation, led by Google India’s Director of Public Policy, expressed keen interest in partnering with the J&K Government to promote inclusive tech-driven development, especially in rural and remote areas.
“Jammu and Kashmir has tremendous talent and untapped potential. We’re here to explore how Google’s resources can empower young people, entrepreneurs, and public institutions,” said the team lead during the interaction.
CM Omar Abdullah, known for his progressive stance on IT-enabled governance, welcomed the collaboration.
“Technology can bridge divides—between rural and urban, educated and underprivileged. I appreciate Google’s interest in creating avenues for our youth and strengthening public service delivery,” Omar stated.
Discussions ranged from YouTube-based skill training programs, AI for healthcare outreach, to Google Maps integration for tourism and emergency services in the Valley.
The meeting also touched on data privacy, local language support, and efforts to promote Kashmiri content online, including digitisation of local culture, history, and folk literature.
Omar Abdullah urged the visiting team to consider setting up digital resource hubs in district headquarters and offered full support for pilot initiatives that could benefit students, artisans, and startups.
Google’s visit signals rising interest among global tech giants in the post-pandemic revival and digital transformation of Jammu and Kashmir. If realised, the partnership could mark a new era of tech-led development, bridging aspirations from Srinagar to Shopian.
