Srinagar: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, Transport and Science & Technology Satish Sharma on Sunday underscored the importance of modern transportation, tourism promotion, innovation and entrepreneurship in driving Jammu and 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 the Union Territory.
Addressing the gathering, Satish Sharma said that world-class transport infrastructure is essential for promoting tourism, facilitating trade and accelerating economic development. He observed that the introduction of premium transport services would significantly enhance the travel experience for both tourists and residents while contributing to the sustained growth of Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector.
The event was attended by Mubarak Gul, senior government officers, representatives of the tourism and business sectors and members of the Chamber of Commerce and Industries Kashmir.
The Minister appreciated the efforts of the organisers in introducing modern transportation facilities and reiterated the government’s commitment towards upgrading transport infrastructure, promoting sustainable tourism and encouraging greater private sector participation in key developmental sectors.
Later, Satish Sharma visited the Rang-e-Kashmir Exhibition at Sher-i-Kashmir Park, where he interacted with entrepreneurs, artisans, startups and exhibitors showcasing local products, handicrafts, innovations and the rich cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
Commending the participants for their contribution to economic activity and employment generation, the Minister said entrepreneurship, innovation and technology-driven initiatives are emerging as powerful engines of growth for Jammu and Kashmir. He stressed the need to create a supportive ecosystem that enables young entrepreneurs and innovators to transform their ideas into successful enterprises.
Emphasising the importance of strengthening local businesses, Satish Sharma called for greater market access and institutional support for artisans, startups and small enterprises to help them compete effectively in national and global markets.
Reaffirming the government’s vision for a progressive and self-reliant Jammu and Kashmir, the Minister said sustained investments in infrastructure, innovation, youth empowerment and entrepreneurship would play a pivotal role in generating employment opportunities and ensuring inclusive socio-economic development across the Union Territory.
Calling for collective efforts, Satish Sharma urged all stakeholders, including industry bodies, entrepreneurs and civil society organisations, to work together towards building a stronger, more prosperous and future-ready Jammu and Kashmir.
