Srinagar: In the serene landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir, a silent revolution is taking place, one that is empowering the youth and transforming job seekers into employers.
Over the past two years, startups in the region have become the catalyst for change, thanks to the government’s support in incubation and seed funding for innovative ideas. This newfound support system is nurturing a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation, providing new opportunities for the young minds of the Union Territory.
Building an Ecosystem for Innovation
A thriving ecosystem for innovation and startups is being meticulously crafted in Jammu and Kashmir. The government’s vision of self-reliance is driving the creation of Industry Innovation clusters, paving the way for a new generation of entrepreneurs who are eager to create jobs for others. These efforts are not going unnoticed, as India is now ranked third globally in terms of innovation and startups, only trailing behind the US and China.
Jammu and Kashmir is emerging as a startup hub within India, and the synergy between the industry and academic institutions is fostering a culture of innovation. Budding innovators and researchers are receiving institutionalized support to turn their ideas into reality.
Exploring Opportunities Across Sectors
The government’s commitment to exploring startup potential spans across various sectors, from agriculture and dairy to transport, handicrafts, food, and more. This inclusive approach ensures that no sector is left untouched, creating a diverse and vibrant startup landscape.
The Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) has played a pivotal role in nurturing this startup ecosystem. By fostering an entrepreneurial culture and supporting innovation, JKEDI is empowering young entrepreneurs to dream big and challenge traditional norms.
From Graduates to Startup Founders
In ‘Naya Jammu and Kashmir,’ recent graduates from top institutions no longer feel compelled to settle for jobs at established companies or pursue further education abroad. Today, even individuals with minimal support can chase their entrepreneurial dreams if they possess technical skills and a compelling idea.
The Jammu and Kashmir Startup policy offers a comprehensive package of benefits, including office space, monthly allowances, research assistance, energy support, tax incentives for international patents, infrastructure backing, access to global markets, financing options, and academic guidance.
Success Stories
In a remarkably short span of time, startups like ‘FastBeetle’ have become household names in Jammu and Kashmir. With 70,000 users across the region, FastBeetle has revolutionized parcel delivery using motorbikes. The founders, Sheikh Samiullah and Abid Rashid are now among the most successful entrepreneurs in Kashmir, even providing last-mile delivery for Amazon and serving Walmart-owned Flipkart.
‘Downtown Cafe,’ founded by brothers Suhail and Nadeem, has become a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike. Located in Srinagar’s old city, this cafe offers a taste of Indian culture and tradition, setting it apart from the Western-style cafes that dominate the scene.
Another standout is ‘Gatoes,’ led by Jibran Gulzar, which delivers food and groceries to homes across Kashmir. ‘Gatoes’ turned over a million dollars in its first seven months of operation and onboarded over 1450 merchant partners, making it by far the largest startup out of Jammu and Kashmir.
Lavender cultivation has changed the lives of many farmers, and it is heartening to note that Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, in the 99th Edition of Mann ki Baat, appreciated the efforts of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM) in supporting farmers in the cultivation of Lavender in Bhaderwah, Doda district, J&K under CSIR-Aroma Mission. He said, “Farmers had been engaged in traditional maize cultivation for decades, but some farmers thought of doing something different. They turned to floriculture, that is, the cultivation of flowers. Today, around two and a half thousand farmers are cultivating Lavender here. They have also been handheld through the Aroma Mission of the Central Government. This new cultivation has greatly increased the income of the farmers.”
Duggar Haat
In March 2021, the Umeed scheme, a collaboration between JKRLM and District Administration Reasi, ignited a culinary revolution in the Pouni Block of Reasi. Self Help Group (SHG) women turned their kitchen skills into a thriving enterprise called “Dogra Haat.” With support, they honed their culinary talents, learned business basics, and mastered social media promotion. Their menu boasts 20 varieties of authentic Dogra recipes, including Makki ki Roti, Saag, and Lassi.
This venture, led by women like Kailash Kumari and Neelam Kumari, is more than a business; it’s a women’s empowerment movement. Dogra Haat’s success, with a turnover of Rs 7 lakh in two years, has made these women financially independent, earning them the trust and admiration of tourists and locals alike.
