Kashmir Inc pins hope on PM Modi to revive economic fortunes

Srinagar, Mar 2: As Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Kashmir for the first time post the abrogation of Article 370, Kashmir Inc has pinned its hopes on the upcoming PM's visit to give a fillip to the economy.

PM Modi is slated to address a mega rally at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar on March 7, raising expectations among the local business community, who hope that the visit will act as a catalyst to get their economic issues redressed.

Chairman, Jammu and Kashmir Hoteliers Club Mushtaq Chaya welcomed the Prime Minister's visit, saying it has raised hopes and expectations among the business fraternity, who are hopeful that PM Modi will make many announcements to give a boost to the local economy and promote tourism in Kashmir.

"We have very high expectations from his visit. His presence is good for tourism as well as for the business community, as he will make several announcements like he did in Jammu, which would prove beneficial for the locals and lead to employment generation," Chaya said.

The Prime Minister's visit is being seen as an opportunity to address the concerns of the business community and lay out a roadmap for Kashmir's economic development.

Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), have also expressed hope that PM Modi's visit will pave the way for the revival of the local economy, with a focus on sectors like tourism, handicrafts, horticulture, and information technology.

President, KCCI, Javed Tenga said " Chamber welcome PM's visit, if we get a chance to meet, we will discuss the power scenario of Kashmir with him and request him for more allocation of electricity as power shortage has crippled the local economy, expansion of Srinagar Airport and economic package will be our agenda."

The KCCI has urged the Prime Minister to announce a comprehensive economic package, including measures to improve infrastructure, provide incentives for investors, and support local artisans and entrepreneurs.

Associated Chamber of Commerce and Industries Kashmir (CCIK) president, Tariq Rashid Ghani heaped praises on PM Modi for his developmental focus and stated that they are hopeful that his visit will give a boost to the economy as it is expected he will announce various measures during his visit.

President of Kashmir Trade Alliance (KTA), Aijaz Shahdhar also welcomed the Prime Minister's visit and pinned hopes on it. "We are hopeful that our economic issues will be addressed during his visit."