Jammu, March 26, 2025 – A significant workshop organized by NITI Aayog was held today at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu, aimed at promoting innovation, investment, and industry in the MSME sector of Jammu and Kashmir. The event brought together policymakers, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders to deliberate on reforms and strategies to foster a growth-oriented environment for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Union Territory (UT).
The workshop zeroed in on three pivotal sectors of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy: textiles, food processing, and tourism. Discussions explored the challenges and opportunities within these industries, emphasizing the need for seamless reforms and deepened communication between all stakeholders. “Policy makers and entrepreneurs should work as partners to empower small and micro entrepreneurs of Jammu and Kashmir,” a key speaker noted, underscoring the resolve to uplift the region’s MSME ecosystem.
Key Sectors in Focus
In the food processing sector, participants highlighted the urgent need for improved performance and enhanced infrastructure to unlock its full potential. Similarly, in the tourism sector, the focus was on accelerating the development of new tourist destinations to bolster economic growth. The textiles sector, particularly the handloom industry, emerged as a point of pride, with its revival gaining global recognition through better market linkages.
Empowering MSMEs for Growth
The workshop emphasized that fostering collaboration between stakeholders and implementing seamless reforms would have a wide-ranging impact on MSMEs in Jammu and Kashmir. The handloom sector’s success story was cited as an example of how innovation and market access can transform traditional industries. “It is a matter of great pride for J&K that handloom products are being recognized throughout the globe,” a participant remarked, expressing confidence that MSMEs in this sector are well-positioned to meet new challenges and seize emerging opportunities.
As Jammu and Kashmir continues to strengthen its economic foundation, initiatives like today’s workshop signal a commitment to creating a thriving environment for small and micro entrepreneurs, ensuring sustainable growth across key industries.