• Calls for Integration of IT, Consumer Welfare, Skill Development for stronger trade ecosystem

SRINAGAR: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), Youth Services and Sports, and Information Technology, Satish Shrama, today underlined the importance of digitally empowering the local traders and integrating youth into entrepreneurial initiatives.  He was speaking at   the FTII Traders Conclave 2025 .

The conclave  organized by the Federation of Trade and Industry of India (FTII) at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, was held under the banner of "Vocal for Local", to promote indigenous trade and entrepreneurship.

The conclave was also attended by Union Minister for Commerce & Industry, Poyush Goyal; Chairman National Traders Welfare Board, Sunil Singhi;   Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Ghulam Ali Khatana; Commissioner Secretary, Industries and  Commerce, Vikramjit Singh and other senior officers.

“The convergence of trade, digital technology and youth innovation holds the key towards building a self-reliant and prosperous Jammu & Kashmir. Through our IT initiatives, we aim to simplify trade processes and ensure transparency in consumer services. At the same time, we are working to encourage our youth to become job creators instead of job seekers,” Satish Shrama maintained.

He highlighted that the Department of FCS&CA is actively modernizing the public distribution and consumer grievance redressal mechanisms using IT tools. He added that improved digital infrastructure is also enabling the department to empower both consumers and traders alike.

Satish Shrama emphasized the critical need to create a youth-driven economic culture through entrepreneurship cells, skill training under sports and youth welfare programs and digital skilling platforms. “We must tap into the potential of our youth to transform the border districts and trade hubs into innovation centres,” the Minister added.

The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment towards safeguarding the consumer interests, streamlining digital services and expanding platforms for youth engagement in business and sports sectors. He also lauded FTII for hosting the conclave in Kashmir and fostering a platform for local voices to be heard nationally. The program featured interactive sessions with policymakers, business leaders and youth entrepreneurs followed by networking and business linkage facilitation.

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In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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