Emphasizes Youth Empowerment as the Key to J&K’s Economic Transformation
Asif Iqbal Naik
Jammu, October 16, 2025:
National Conference leader and MLA Banihal, Mr. Sajjad Shaheen, today inaugurated a Job-cum-Entrepreneurship Mela at the Government Degree College (GDC), Banihal, organized by the District Employment & Counselling Centre, Ramban, under the Mission YUVA initiative of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir.
In his address, Mr. Shaheen highlighted the critical role of entrepreneurship and self-employment in building a self-reliant and progressive Jammu and Kashmir. He described Mission YUVA as a transformative initiative aimed at turning the youth from job seekers into job creators, thereby reshaping the economic landscape of the Union Territory.
The MLA visited various stalls set up by young entrepreneurs and interacted with representatives of leading companies participating in the mela. He lauded the innovation, creativity, and determination shown by local youth, especially those running small-scale enterprises that generate employment at the grassroots level.
On the occasion, loans were sanctioned to four young entrepreneurs under the Mission YUVA scheme for the purchase of vehicles to support their livelihood ventures. Mr. Shaheen also held interactions with YUVA Doots and representatives of several training institutes, emphasizing the importance of skill development, technological innovation, and mentorship in enhancing employability and entrepreneurial capacity.
He stressed that Mission YUVA is not merely a government programme but a people-driven movement to build a resilient and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir by harnessing the potential and energy of its youth. Appreciating the participation of eight reputed companies that conducted on-spot recruitment drives, Mr. Shaheen noted that such events play a vital role in connecting employers with local talent and promoting a culture of enterprise, innovation, and inclusion.
Urging the youth to take full advantage of the opportunities offered under various government initiatives, the MLA encouraged them to pursue innovation-led ventures and contribute actively to the socio-economic development of the region. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting all measures aimed at strengthening youth empowerment, skill enhancement, and sustainable employment in Banihal and beyond.
