Srinagar, May 31 (JKNS): Minister for Transport, Information Technology, Science & Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Satish Sharma on Sunday said that modern transport infrastructure, tourism promotion, innovation and entrepreneurship are emerging as the cornerstones of Jammu and Kashmir’s economic transformation, asserting that sustained investment in these sectors will create new opportunities and accelerate inclusive growth across the Union Territory.
As per news agency JKNS, Sharma underscored the importance of modern transportation, tourism promotion, innovation, and entrepreneurship in driving Jammu & 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 transportation facilities, improve tourist mobility, and enhance connectivity across Jammu & Kashmir.
Addressing the gathering, Satish Sharma said that world-class transport infrastructure is essential for promoting tourism, facilitating trade, and accelerating economic development. He noted that the introduction of premium transport services would significantly enhance the travel experience of both tourists and residents while contributing to the sustained growth of Jammu & 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).
Among those present were Joint Director Tourism Waseem Raja, Regional Transport Officer Srinagar Qazi Irfan, SSP Traffic Srinagar City Ajaz Ahmad, and a CCIK delegation led by President Tariq Ghani.
The delegation also included Senior Vice President Hussain Khan, Junior Vice President Dr. Imran, Chief Coordinator Ashiq Bhat, Convener Umar Jan, Joint Secretary Atif, Youth President Zubair, and other office-bearers.
The Minister appreciated the efforts of the organisers in introducing modern transportation facilities and reiterated the government’s commitment to upgrading 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 entrepreneurs, artisans, startups, and exhibitors showcasing 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 & Kashmir. He emphasized the need to create a supportive ecosystem that enables young entrepreneurs and innovators to translate ideas into successful enterprises.
Highlighting the significance of the Information Technology and Science & Technology sectors, Satish Sharma stressed the importance of strengthening linkages between innovation, skill development, startups, and industry. He reiterated the government’s commitment to facilitating technology adoption, digital empowerment, and capacity-building initiatives for the youth.
The Minister also emphasized the need to provide greater market access and institutional support to 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 & 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 stakeholders, including industry bodies, entrepreneurs, and civil society, to work collectively towards building a stronger, more prosperous, and future-ready Jammu & Kashmir. (JKNS)