CM Omar Abdullah calls for equal tourism and industrial growth in J&K

SRINAGAR : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday emphasized the need to complement Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism success story with an equally robust industrial growth, calling upon industry leaders to view J&K as a viable and promising investment destination.
Addressing the 4th meeting of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Northern Regional Council 2025-26, held in Srinagar, the Chief Minister acknowledged that while the focus in recent months has largely been on tourism, industrial growth has not received the same attention. He assured stakeholders that the government is determined to correct this imbalance by strengthening the investment ecosystem across Jammu and Kashmir.
“Tourism is one part of our growth story, but the other part that requires equal attention is industrialisation,” Omar Abdullah said while interacting with business leaders. “Jammu and Kashmir remains an attractive place for investment despite challenges, and we are committed to making it easier and more rewarding for industry to operate here.”
The Chief Minister presented an overview of ongoing investments and incentives in J&K, noting that industrial hubs such as Kathua, Samba, Bari Brahmana in Jammu, and Lassipora in Kashmir continue to attract the highest inflow of capital.
He underlined recent government efforts to simplify procedures, while candidly admitting gaps in the single-window clearance system:
“We must ensure that our ‘single window’ is truly a single window, not one that leads to a ventilator, then an exhaust fan, and eventually nowhere. I have directed the Industries Department to engage directly with recent investors and learn from their experiences to fix this system once and for all.”
The Chief Minister highlighted J&K’s comparative advantages: cheaper land and electricity than neighbouring regions, GST reimbursement benefits, and availability of skilled labour. He encouraged manufacturers to explore J&K for investment in certain investor- friendly sectors which offer competitive advantage and to weigh their options in the wake of new GST rate slabs.
On the perception-versus-reality gap about peace and security in the region, Omar Abdullah said:“J&K today is calm, peaceful, and open for business. Yes, there have been difficult times, but those are behind us. Tragic incidents like the one at Pahalgam are aberrations, not the norm, and every step is being taken to prevent its recurrence.”
The Chief Minister urged investors to look beyond subsidy-driven models and invest in sectors where J&K has inherent strengths. He cited examples from agriculture, horticulture, and dairy production, noting that only 4% of milk in Kashmir is processed, compared to 80% in Gujarat.
“This is a ready-made opportunity for value addition. We produce the raw material, we have the market, and yet we under-utilise our potential. The same is true for other sectors where J&K can provide both raw materials and skilled manpower.”
Calling unemployment a pressing challenge, he stressed that the state cannot continue to rely only on government jobs. “Industrialisation and tourism together must create new employment avenues for our youth,” he asserted.
The Chief Minister encouraged candid feedback from CII members so that the government will work on shortcomings, if any.
“Those of you investing in J&K, tell us what went well and what hasn’t. Those of you who are reluctant, tell us why not—and if it is within our power, we will address it. Your feedback is critical to shaping a business-friendly future here.”
Among others who addressed the gathering were CII Northern Region Chairperson Anjali Singh, CII Delhi State Council Chairman Puneet Kaura, Vice Chairman CII J&K Council MA Alim and CII Northern Region Director Rachna Jindal.
The event witnessed wide participation from industry leaders across the region.
The Chief Minister thanked CII for organising the meeting in Srinagar and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to facilitate investment, promote value addition and build a sustainable industrial ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.