Srinagar, October 25, 2025 – Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha engaged in a productive discussion with a high-level delegation from the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) at Raj Bhawan here on Saturday, focusing on bolstering tourism and trade sectors as pivotal engines of economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir.The delegation, led by KCCI President Javid Ahmad Tenga and comprising newly elected office bearers and executive committee members, called on the LG for an introductory meeting. Sinha extended his congratulations to the new leadership and reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to resolving challenges in trade, commerce, and industry. “Tourism and industry are key drivers of economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir,” the LG emphasized, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts to harness these sectors’ potential.
Key Discussion Points
The meeting delved into several strategic initiatives aimed at elevating Kashmir’s profile as a premier tourist destination and enhancing trade viability:
- Tourism Promotion Initiatives: The delegation outlined plans for a high-impact roadshow in Mumbai to attract investors and tourists, alongside scheduled meetings with foreign ambassadors in Delhi. These efforts are geared toward mitigating travel advisories issued by select countries and amplifying Kashmir’s appeal through targeted marketing campaigns.
- Handicrafts Sector Support: KCCI members expressed appreciation for the LG’s patronage of local artisans and weavers, noting that recent awards and recognitions have significantly uplifted morale within the handicrafts industry. They urged sustained government backing to preserve and globalize this cultural asset.
- Trade and Infrastructure Challenges: Issues pertaining to ease of doing business, infrastructure upgrades, and policy reforms were raised, with the LG assuring proactive interventions to streamline operations and foster an investor-friendly ecosystem.
The interaction underscored a shared vision for sustainable development, with Sinha pledging full administrative support to translate these proposals into actionable outcomes. The KCCI delegation lauded the LG’s approachable stance, viewing the meeting as a catalyst for deeper public-private partnerships.
This engagement comes at a crucial juncture for Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, where tourism—contributing over 7% to the GDP—faces recovery hurdles post-pandemic, while trade seeks diversification amid global uncertainties. Officials anticipate that such dialogues will pave the way for innovative policies, potentially boosting visitor footfall by 20% in the upcoming season.As Jammu and Kashmir positions itself as a hub for experiential tourism and artisanal exports, stakeholders remain optimistic about the ripple effects of this collaboration on employment generation and regional prosperity.
