Says J&K is an integral part of India, no power can separate it from the nation Urges Policy support & digital transformation for J&K’s MSMEs J&K’s handloom, handicrafts to benefit from E-commerce, branding initiatives Says J&K must follow Switzerland’s MSME model to drive growth
LG Manoj Sinha: Peace & Stability Key to J&K’s Economic Growth, MSME Expansion
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday emphasized that lasting peace and stability are essential for Jammu and Kashmir’s progress, including economic development, business growth, and tourism. Speaking at a NITI Aayog workshop on MSME investment, innovation, and industry promotion at IIM Jammu, he underscored the crucial role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in driving regional prosperity.
Sinha highlighted that J&K is home to over 7 lakh MSMEs, providing employment to more than 11 lakh people. However, its contribution to India’s MSME sector remains low at 1.19%, with employment share standing at just 0.99%. He stressed the need for structural reforms, policy support, and market expansion, citing Switzerland’s MSME model as an example for J&K to follow, particularly in agriculture, food processing, and digital transformation.
Discussing the impact of COVID-19 on traditional sectors like handloom, handicrafts, and food processing, Sinha emphasized ongoing initiatives such as e-commerce integration and branding to boost market reach. He noted a surge in J&K’s exports, particularly in textiles, saffron, walnuts, and horticultural products, with improved marketing infrastructure supporting global access.
On tourism, Sinha called for increased private sector investment, stating that the government alone cannot build world-class infrastructure. With improved air, rail, and digital connectivity, he urged investors to capitalize on J&K’s tourism potential, revealing that the Jammu-Kashmir train service is expected to begin in April.
He also highlighted J&K’s remarkable progress in business reforms, implementing 97% of the Ease of Doing Business measures, making the region a top destination for investment. Under the Self-Reliant India Fund (SRI Fund), 145 enterprises have received financial assistance this year, with ongoing efforts to raise awareness among entrepreneurs.
Reaffirming J&K’s integration with India, Sinha asserted that no external force can disrupt its stability. He stressed that peace is not just the responsibility of security forces but also the people, as business, development, and prosperity are directly linked to maintaining harmony.
“The turbulent times of the past will not return. Stability is the foundation upon which J&K’s economy, business, and tourism will thrive,” he concluded.
