Srinagar, May 31: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, Transport, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma on Sunday underscored the importance of modern transportation, tourism promotion, innovation and entrepreneurship in driving Jammu and Kashmir’s economic transformation.
The Minister was speaking after inaugurating a fleet of Volvo buses introduced by Star World Ventures at Countryside Resort, Srinagar. The initiative is expected to strengthen the transportation facilities, improve tourist mobility and enhance connectivity across the Union Territory.
Addressing the gathering, Satish Sharma said that world-class transport infrastructure is essential for promoting tourism, facilitating trade and accelerating economic development. He said that the introduction of premium transport services would significantly enhance the travel experience for both the tourists and the residents while contributing to the sustained growth of Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector.
The event was attended by MLA Eidgah Mubarak Gul, senior government officers, representatives of the tourism and business sectors and members of the Chamber of Commerce and Industries Kashmir (CCIK).
The Minister appreciated the efforts of the organisers in introducing the modern transportation facilities and reiterated the government’s commitment towards upgrading the transport infrastructure, promoting sustainable tourism and encouraging private sector participation in key developmental sectors.
Later, Satish Sharma visited the Rang-e-Kashmir Exhibition at Sher-i-Kashmir Park, Srinagar, where he interacted with the entrepreneurs, artisans, startups and exhibitors showcasing the local products, handicrafts, innovations and the rich cultural heritage of Jammu & Kashmir.
Commending the participants for their contribution to economic activity and employment generation, the Minister said that entrepreneurship, innovation and technology-driven initiatives are emerging as powerful engines of growth for Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized the need to create a supportive ecosystem that enables the young entrepreneurs and innovators to translate ideas into successful enterprises.
The Minister also emphasized the need to provide greater market access and institutional support to the local artisans, startups and small businesses to help them compete effectively in national and global markets.
Reaffirming the government’s vision for a progressive and self-reliant Jammu and Kashmir, Satish Sharma said that sustained investments in infrastructure, innovation, youth empowerment and entrepreneurship would play a pivotal role in creating new opportunities and ensuring inclusive socio-economic growth across Jammu & Kashmir.
He called upon all the stakeholders, including industry bodies, entrepreneurs and civil society, to work collectively towards building a stronger, more prosperous and future-ready Jammu and Kashmir.
