Srinagar: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, Science & Technology and ARI & Trainings Satish Sharma on Saturday inaugurated “ArchEx Srinagar 2026”, a major architecture and building material exhibition in Srinagar.
The three-day exhibition was inaugurated in the presence of legislators Farooq Ahmad Shah, Salman Sagar, Sheikh Ovaise and Tariq Ghani, besides architects, engineers, entrepreneurs and industry leaders.
Described as North India’s largest architecture and building material exhibition and the first of its kind in Jammu and Kashmir, the event has brought together over 100 companies from across the country showcasing modern construction technologies, sustainable building materials and smart infrastructure solutions.
After inaugurating the exhibition, the minister visited various stalls and interacted with exhibitors, architects, builders and young entrepreneurs.
Speaking on the occasion, Satish Sharma said Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing rapid infrastructural growth and urban transformation, adding that such platforms help connect local talent with national expertise and emerging technologies.
He stressed the need for sustainable and environmentally responsible development while preserving the region’s cultural and architectural identity.
The minister said modern architecture must go hand in hand with ecological sensitivity, efficient urban planning and promotion of indigenous construction practices.
He added that the participation of leading national companies reflects the growing investment potential and developmental momentum in Jammu and Kashmir.
Satish Sharma said the government is focusing on modernisation in sectors including infrastructure, transportation, sports facilities, information technology and public service delivery.
He also appreciated the organisers for hosting the large-scale professional exhibition in Srinagar, saying such initiatives would boost entrepreneurship, economic activity and professional collaboration in the region.
The exhibition is being organised by the Indian Institute of Architects Srinagar Centre in association with Minds Media & Management Private Limited.
During the event, noted hotelier and entrepreneur Mushtaq Chaya was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to the hospitality sector.
