Srinagar, March 13, 2025 – The Jammu and Kashmir government has earmarked 625 acres of land for the development of industrial estates across various districts in the Kashmir division, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary announced in the Legislative Assembly on Tuesday. In a parallel move, a proposal for approximately 1,207 acres has been submitted to the Revenue Department for similar projects in the Jammu division, signaling a robust push toward industrial growth in the Union Territory.
The announcement comes as part of the J&K Industrial Policy 2021-30, a framework designed to catalyze economic development through sectors such as manufacturing, information technology, agriculture, food processing, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure. Over the past two years, the government has already transferred 691 acres for industrial estates in Kashmir, while a total of 1,869 acres have been proposed for Jammu, reflecting a phased and ambitious expansion strategy.
Addressing the Assembly, Choudhary emphasised that the initiative aligns with the Central Sector Scheme 2021, which carries a financial outlay of Rs 28,400 crore and will run until March 31, 2037. The scheme offers incentives for industrial units, including special provisions for women entrepreneurs, aiming to create a balanced and inclusive economic ecosystem. “This is about sustainable growth that benefits our people,” Choudhary said, responding to queries from legislators.
The Bharatiya Janata Party , a key stakeholder in J&K’s political landscape, has advocated for reserving 80% of jobs in these industrial estates for local residents, a measure intended to ensure that economic gains remain within the region. Alongside land allocation, the government has issued mining leases and permits for construction materials to support infrastructure development, further bolstering the industrial push.
The proposed estates are expected to enhance connectivity and economic activity across J&K. In a related development, the government has proposed upgrading the Dhar-Udhampur road into an all-weather route, a move that could facilitate industrial transport and logistics in the Jammu region.
While specific timelines and district-wise breakdowns for the 625 acres in Kashmir remain under wraps, officials have hinted at a meticulous planning process to avoid disrupting local communities or agricultural land. The Revenue Department is currently reviewing the Jammu proposal, with approvals expected to pave the way for rapid implementation.
This industrial expansion marks a significant step in J&K’s post-Article 370 economic roadmap, blending central government support with regional priorities. As the policy unfolds, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how it balances industrial ambition with the Union Territory’s unique socio-economic fabric.