KCCI Meets LG Manoj Sinha: Urgent Economic Issues, Tourism Revival, and Communal Harmony Discussed in Detail
Srinagar | 26 June 2025
In a significant development for Jammu and Kashmir’s economic and social landscape, a high-level delegation from the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), led by its President Javid Ahmad Tenga, met with the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha at Raj Bhawan Srinagar today.
The meeting marked a crucial step in articulating the region’s pressing economic concerns, advocating for a smooth Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, calling for a revival of tourism post the Pahalgam incident, and demanding financial relief for distressed business units through an extended OTS scheme.
The Delegation: Voice of the Business Community
Joining President Javid Ahmad Tenga were:
- Ashiq Hussain Shangloo, Senior Vice President
- Fayaz Ahmad Punjabi, Junior Vice President
- Umar Nazir Tibetbaqal, Joint Secretary General
- Zubair Mahajan, Treasurer
Together, they represented a cross-section of Kashmir’s trade, commerce, and industry sectors.
Support for Amarnath Yatra & Communal Harmony
One of the most notable moments during the meeting was KCCI’s wholehearted support for the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. Tenga emphasized Kashmir’s enduring legacy of communal harmony, hospitality, and religious respect.
The delegation requested:
- Comprehensive arrangements for the Yatra’s success.
- Unhindered access for tourists across the Valley during the pilgrimage.
- Coordination between civil and security agencies to maintain ease of movement.
This was not just a business issue—it was a reflection of Kashmir’s inclusive ethos.
Muharram: A Sacred Period that Deserves Administrative Sensitivity
The delegation also urged the LG to ensure peaceful conduct of Muharram processions. As the first and one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar, Muharram holds deep spiritual meaning.
KCCI stressed the need for:
- Respectful facilitation of traditional rituals.
- Security without restrictions.
- A framework for coordination between clerics, law enforcement, and communities to ensure a smooth observance.
Their appeal underscored the importance of administrative sensitivity to faith and culture.
Pahalgam Terror Attack: Impact on Tourism and Economic Confidence
Referring to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the KCCI team described the severe blow it dealt to the tourism sector, which had just begun recovering post-COVID.
While appreciating the reopening of 16 tourist destinations, they urged:
- Reopening all destinations closed post-incident.
- Launching targeted promotional campaigns to rebuild confidence.
- Involving private stakeholders in collaborative revival efforts.
Tourism is the backbone of Kashmir’s economy, and restoring it is central to restoring livelihoods.
Karz Se Mukti: A Lifeline for Struggling Businesses
A major highlight of the conversation was the KCCI’s appeal to extend the OTS (One-Time Settlement) Scheme – ‘Karz Se Mukti’ by six months.
Why the extension is critical:
- Thousands of local businesses face financial stress due to unrest, lockdowns, and inflation.
- The current deadline is too short for full recovery.
- More time will allow entrepreneurs to settle dues without closure or legal action.
KCCI also urged:
- Introduction of a new OTS scheme with a higher ceiling, aligned with updated MSME guidelines.
- Special provisions for startups and women-led enterprises.
LG Manoj Sinha’s Response: Promises of Action
The Hon’ble LG was warm and receptive, assuring the delegation of:
- A sincere review of every issue raised.
- Timely redressal of concerns related to financial aid and tourism.
- Focused policies for the revival of business and sustainable tourism growth.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to:
- Peace-building through economic empowerment.
- Creating enabling conditions for long-term growth.
“The people of Jammu & Kashmir will soon witness the revival of tourism like pre-Pahalgam days,” he added with optimism.
KCCI’s Broader Vision: Building a Prosperous Kashmir
The Chamber concluded by reaffirming its:
- Commitment to peace, economic development, and social harmony.
- Role as a bridge between policy and public needs.
- Vision of a self-reliant and globally competitive Kashmir.
Conclusion: From Dialogue to Development
This wasn’t just a courtesy call—it was a call for urgent action. As KCCI lays out the roadmap for economic revival, the ball is now in the government’s court. The future of Kashmir’s tourism, business confidence, and communal unity hinges on how these appeals are translated into policy.
Press Release
A delegation of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCC&I), led by its President Javid Ahmad Tenga, called on the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, at Raj Bhawan Srinagar today.
The delegation comprised Senior Vice President Ashiq Hussain Shangloo, Junior Vice President Fayaz Ahmad Punjabi, Joint Secretary General Umar Nazir Tibetbaqal, and Treasurer Zubair Mahajan.
During the meeting, the KCCI team highlighted several urgent economic and public welfare concerns that require immediate intervention of the administration.
The Chamber expressed its wholehearted support for the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra and reiterated Kashmir’s unwavering commitment to communal harmony, mutual respect, and hospitality. The delegation urged the Hon’ble LG to ensure comprehensive arrangements for the smooth conduct of the Yatra and also sought his intervention to facilitate hassle-free access for tourists to all destinations across the Valley during the pilgrimage period.
The KCCI urged the Lt. Governor to direct the administration to take appropriate steps for smooth conduct of Muharram , it’s rituals , and being the first month of the Islamic calendar , and holds the highly esteemed position in Islam.
Referring to the adverse impact of the tragic April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, the delegation drew attention to the serious economic disruption faced by Kashmir’s tourism sector. While appreciating the administration’s decision to reopen 16 tourist destinations as a confidence-building measure, the Chamber requested the reopening of all remaining destinations that were closed post the incident to help revive the Valley’s fragile economy.
The KCCI also highlighted the deepening financial distress being faced by local businesses and sought the Hon’ble LG’s intervention in urging the Jammu and Kashmir Bank to extend the repayment deadline under its Special One-Time Settlement (OTS) Scheme – Karz Se Mukti – by at least six months.
KCC&I further requested that a revised new OTS scheme be announced with an enhanced ceiling in line with the prevailing MSME guidelines, so that more struggling units may benefit.
The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor received the KCCI delegation with warmth and gave a patient and thoughtful hearing to their concerns.
He assured the delegation that all the issues raised would be addressed with sincerity and a positive outlook. Emphasising the administration’s commitment to the revival and sustained growth of tourism in Kashmir, LG reiterated that all necessary measures are being taken to boost the sector and create an enabling environment for the business community to thrive.The people of Jammu & Kashmir will soon witness the revival of tourism like pre-Pahalgham incident days.
The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry reaffirmed its commitment to playing a constructive role in supporting peace, economic revival, and social harmony in Jammu and Kashmir.
Faiz Ahmad Bakshi
Secretary General
The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry INC.
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