Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday took a step towards strengthening its startup and entrepreneurial ecosystem with the launch of the Jammu and Kashmir Chapter of the D2C Industry Association (D2CIA) at the first National Conclave 2026, with Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, Science & Technology and ARI & Trainings Satish Sharma calling for greater focus on innovation-led enterprises.
The event was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, filmmakers, entrepreneurs, startup founders, industry leaders and other stakeholders.
Addressing the gathering, Satish Sharma said the D2CIA chapter would serve as a platform to connect local enterprises with wider markets and contribute towards building a stronger innovation-driven economy in Jammu and Kashmir.
He said the government under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is committed to creating an environment that encourages entrepreneurship, innovation and employment generation through transparent governance, digital transformation, skill development and supportive policies.
Highlighting the potential of the Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) sector, the Minister said technology-based businesses are transforming the future of commerce by enabling producers and entrepreneurs to reach consumers directly.
He said Jammu and Kashmir needs to actively participate in this transformation by supporting startups, MSMEs, artisans, farmers and young entrepreneurs with digital platforms, market linkages and policy support.
Speaking about tourism, Satish Sharma said Kashmir is witnessing renewed growth as a major tourist destination, with increasing tourist footfall, improved infrastructure and new tourism circuits creating opportunities for local businesses.
He said the tourism sector has a multiplier effect on the economy, supporting livelihoods and generating sustainable employment opportunities.
The Minister also highlighted the government’s focus on sports development and youth empowerment, saying investment in sports infrastructure, coaching facilities and athlete development would help shape the future of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth.
He further stressed that tackling drug abuse remains a priority and called for collective efforts by educational institutions, families, civil society and community leaders to protect young people and promote a healthier society.
Satish Sharma invited entrepreneurs and industry leaders to invest in Jammu and Kashmir, assuring that the government would continue to promote ease of doing business, encourage innovation and strengthen industry-government partnerships.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani said collaboration between the government, industry bodies, educational institutions and entrepreneurs is essential for economic transformation.
He said Jammu and Kashmir has immense potential in the D2C, startup and MSME sectors and that initiatives like the D2CIA chapter would help local enterprises access national and global markets.
Nasir Aslam Wani added that sustained cooperation among stakeholders would be key to building a resilient and future-ready economy.
