FCIK commends leadership, calls for swift damage assessment

The Federation of Chambers of Industries Kashmir (FCIK) warmly welcomes the official ceasefire announcement between India and Pakistan following the recent escalation in hostilities along the Line of Control and international border. This much-needed development brings immense relief to the common people of both countries, particularly to thousands of families living in the vulnerable frontier belts who have endured trauma, displacement, and destruction with resilience and dignity.

As a representative body of the business community and an integral part of civil society, FCIK firmly believes that peace is the foundation of prosperity, and this ceasefire must be viewed as an opportunity to rebuild lives, communities, and trust.

The Advisory Committee of FCIK, headed by Shahid Kamili has hailed the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for mustering courage to reach out to the affected families despite the enormous risks posed by the ongoing exchange of fire. His gesture has not only provided emotional solace to the affected but also boosted public morale at a time of deep anxiety.

“His issuance of timely advisories, and the provision of psychological counseling and trauma support for both civilians and frontline personnel are commendable steps that reflect responsive and compassionate governance”, said the AC members.

FCIK has expressed its deepest condolences to all those who lost their loved ones during the recent hostilities.

“We stand in solidarity with the bereaved families, and in particular, extend heartfelt sympathies to the family of Raj Kumar Thapa, the dynamic Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) of Rajouri, whose service and dedication will be remembered with profound respect and admiration”, the members added.

Beyond the human toll, the violence has led to substantial damage to private and public property, livestock, horticulture, and other livelihood sources—especially in vulnerable border belts.

FCIK strongly demands that the government immediately initiate a comprehensive assessment of all such losses to ensure that adequate compensation and rehabilitation reach the affected families without delay.

With the cessation of hostilities, FCIK has called on the Chief Minister to immediately initiate a comprehensive preliminary damage assessment of all such losses to ensure that adequate compensation and rehabilitation reach the affected families without delay.

FCIK has also emphasised the urgent need for full synergy between all departments and relief agencies to prevent bureaucratic delays and ease the suffering of civilians. The safety and mental well-being of frontline personnel must be prioritised through strengthened protective measures and sustained psychological support.

Moreover, the government must draw up a long-term, sustainable rehabilitation programme for border areas, ensuring infrastructure resilience, social services access, and economic recovery. The areas under attack must be thoroughly sanitised and declared safe before displaced families are assisted in returning to their homes.

FCIK remains committed to being a voice for peace, dignity, and economic development and calls on all stakeholders to work together to transform this ceasefire into a turning point—one that leads to healing, reconstruction, and lasting stability.