Share your story and shine at JK Monitor!🌟 Welcome to JK Monitor, where every story matters and every achievement is celebrated! We invite you to share the remarkable journey of your life and showcase your accomplishments to the world. Join our exclusive interviews that honor exceptional individuals just like you. JAMMU: Rahul Sahai Chairman Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Jammu Chapter, extends its sincere appreciation to Hon’ble Chief Minister Jenab Omar Abdullah Sahab for reviving the longstanding tradition of budget consultations, which had been halted for an extended period. This initiative is a significant step towards making Jammu & Kashmir a revenue-positive Union Territory and ensuring the prosperity of its citizens.
During the stakeholder interaction on Budget 2025-26, the Rahul Sahai Chair ICC Jammu Chapter presented key recommendations spanning industries, MSMEs, education, social welfare, tourism, and sports. These proposals aim to foster industrial growth, enhance social infrastructure, and position J&K as a premier destination for investment and tourism.
Industry and MSMEs: A key proposal highlighted the necessity of a special incentive package for local industries, aligning them with the NCSS 2021 scheme to ensure a level playing field. The Indian Chamber advocated for GST incentives, capital subsidies, and interest reimbursements at par with NCSS Package to sustain and promote local businesses. Additionally, a call was made to implement a toll tax on certain imports to protect local industries such as flour mills, brick kilns, tiles, steel, and edible oil manufacturing. Rahul Sahai Chairman ICC also urged the government to streamline SGST reimbursements by treasuries , implement freehold rights for old industrial estates like gangyal,Digiana,Birpur,Bari Brahmna , and provide price preference for local industries in government procurement.
Sports and Exhibitions: Recognizing the economic potential of sports and exhibitions, Chair ICC proposed budget allocations for the construction of two new stadiums in Jammu and a state-of-the-art indoor sports facility. An annual sports calendar featuring key sporting events was suggested to encourage youth participation and tourism. Additionally, the Indian Chamber recommended Budget for organizing golf tournaments to promote golf tourism. To further boost economic activity, ICC called for the establishment of a modern exhibition ground in Jammu and the organization of Surajkund-style melas to showcase products from various states.
Social Welfare Initiatives: ICC stressed the urgent need for structured parking solutions on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to address congestion, alongside provisions for developing new housing colonies to support planned urban expansion. Addressing land-related issues, the Indian Chamber urged swift resolution of lease deed renewals and simplification of procedures related to Gair Mumkin Khad land clearances.
Moreover, it proposed a dedicated budget for skill development programs to equip the local workforce with industry-relevant skills, ensuring better employment opportunities within J&K.
Tourism and Hospitality: To enhance J&K’s appeal as a tourism destination, Rahul Sahai Chairman ICC recommended easing liquor licensing processes for bars in hotels, establishing robust tourist facilitation centers at entry and exit points, and leveraging digital platforms for tourism promotion. The Chamber emphasized the need for vlogs and social media influencer campaigns to showcase J&K’s tourism potential. Additionally, it proposed an online booking system for tourist destinations and a comprehensive review of the homestay policy to encourage rural tourism. Rahul Sahai Chair ICC also advocated for improved inter-UT connectivity, including the introduction of Vande Bharat trains between Jammu and Srinagar and the initiation of a metro project linking Jammu to Katra and Kathua.
Rahul Sahai Chairman ICC Jammu remains committed to supporting the government in executing initiatives that drive economic growth, industrial expansion, and social progress in Jammu & Kashmir. The Chamber looks forward to continued collaboration with the administration to ensure a brighter and more prosperous future for the Union Territory.
