Spice of Winter: How Harissa Warms Kashmir’s Soul By: Javid Amin Srinagar, Nov 18 – As frost blankets Kashmir, a beloved culinary tradition rises to combat the chill – Harissa, the mutton delicacy that transforms winter mornings into a gastronomic celebration. From the narrow lanes of Aali Kadal to the bustling markets of Srinagar, this centuries-old comfort food is commanding unprecedented attention. By 10 AM, Harissa shops are already sold out, testament to the dish’s irresistible allure. Traditional preparation is an art form, with experts like Muhammad Ismail dedicating generations…
Read MoreCategory: Business
Business
Unified Call for Peace: Tourism Leaders Condemn Kashmir Attacks
Tourism Industry and Community Leaders Condemn Recent Attacks in Kashmir, Demand Action Srinagar, Nov 5, 2024 – In a unified call for peace and stability, tourism industry stakeholders and community leaders in Kashmir have strongly condemned the recent spate of terror attacks in the region. These incidents, which have targeted both locals and non-locals, have sparked widespread concern and calls for immediate action to restore peace. Joint Press Conference At a joint press conference held in Srinagar, several prominent figures from the tourism sector voiced their condemnation of the attacks…
Read MoreTourism in Crisis: Why Rising Violence in Kashmir is Putting Local Investment at Risk
Violence and Uncertainty Threaten Investment and Tourism Hopes in Kashmir – A Closer Look at the Impact on Local Business By: Javid Amin Kashmir’s breathtaking landscapes and rich culture have long attracted travelers and investors alike, establishing tourism as a critical pillar of its economy. However, recent instability and violence have severely impacted this essential industry, leaving local businesses to face unprecedented challenges. The ripple effects are widely felt, from the bustling streets of Srinagar to the serene resorts of Gulmarg. This article explores the effect of the unrest on…
Read MoreCCI Jammu Delegation Raises Concerns with State Taxes Commissioner
Allege harassment, businessmen delegation meets commissioner The Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Jammu, has claimed that the multiple issues concerning the state taxes were impacting traders in the region. A delegation of the chamber led by its president Arun Gupta met the Commissioner of State Taxes Department in which they raised the issues concerning the traders. Gupta said the businessmen who are doing their business honestly, paying and filing their GST return in time are being harassed on one pretext or the other. “There is a general practice that even the businessmen…
Read MoreKashmir’s Saffron Fields Suffer Amid Weather Challenges
The past three years saw good saffron production due to favourable weather conditions but the dry September and October has had an impact this year As the plucking of saffron begins across the expansive meadows of Pampore, the dry spell in the month of October has affected the golden crop’s production far fewer than usual flowers being seen in fields in South Kashmir’s Pulwama district. This October saw 95% deficit rain in South Kashmir. “This time, there was no rain in October. Also, September witnessed very minimal rainfall, which has…
Read MoreKCCI Embraces World Craft Council’s Diamond Jubilee Forum in Srinagar
Historic Opportunity for Kashmir’s Artisans and Exporters to Shine on the International Stage The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) is thrilled to announce that the prestigious World Craft Council (WCC) has chosen the picturesque city of Srinagar to host its World Craft Forum during its 60th-anniversary celebrations. This historic decision marks a significant milestone for Kashmir’s rich craft heritage and offers a golden opportunity to showcase the region’s exquisite craftsmanship to the world. A Global Platform for Local Artisans The three-day international event, scheduled to take place at…
Read MoreNew Delhi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Sleeper Set for January 2025 Launch
New Delhi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Sleeper: Rolling Out in January 2025 By: Javid Amin New Delhi – The eagerly anticipated New Delhi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Sleeper train is set to be rolled out in January 2025, promising a transformative travel experience. This high-speed train will cover a distance of over 800 kilometers in less than 13 hours, offering passengers a comfortable and efficient journey. Schedule and Stops The Vande Bharat Sleeper train is expected to depart from New Delhi at 19:00 hrs and reach Srinagar at 08:00 hrs the following day. En route, it will stop at several major stations, including Ambala Cantt Junction, Ludhiana Junction, Kathua, Jammu Tawi, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, Sangaldan, and Banihal. These stops are strategically chosen to ensure smooth connectivity and convenience for travelers. Also Read | Unveil the Beauty of Kashmir’s Autumn: The Perfect Time for Adventure and Serenity Accommodation and Ticket Pricing The train will offer three types of accommodation for passengers, catering to different preferences and budgets: AC 3 Tier (3A): Rs. 2000 AC 2 Tier (2A): Rs. 2500 AC First Class (1A): Rs. 3000 With these options, travelers can choose the level of comfort that suits their needs, making this journey accessible to a wide range of passengers. Transforming Rail Travel The introduction of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train is expected to revolutionize rail travel between New Delhi and Srinagar. This new service is part of a broader effort to enhance connectivity and provide more efficient travel options across India. The high-speed train is designed to offer not only speed but also exceptional comfort, ensuring a pleasant journey for all passengers. Also Read | Diwali Delights Await You in Kashmir—Book Your Dream Escape! Economic and Social Impact The Vande Bharat Sleeper train is anticipated to have significant economic and social impacts on the regions it connects. By reducing travel time and improving accessibility, the train will facilitate greater economic activities and tourism. This enhanced connectivity is expected to boost local economies, create job opportunities, and promote cultural exchanges. A Step Towards Modernization The launch of the New Delhi-Srinagar Vande Bharat Sleeper train represents a step towards the modernization of Indian Railways. With state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on passenger comfort, this new service aligns with the government’s vision of improving transportation infrastructure and providing world-class travel experiences. Future Prospects The success of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train could pave the way for similar high-speed services across other parts of India. As the demand for efficient and comfortable travel options grows, Indian Railways is likely to continue exploring innovative solutions to meet the needs of modern travelers.
Read MoreKCCI Decries Airport Parking as Unfair and Unjust
Kashmir’s Hospitality Under Siege: A Cry Against Airport Parking Extortion By: Javid Amin The once-serene landscapes of Kashmir, renowned for their breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality, are now under an unexpected threat. A recent, arbitrary change in the Srinagar Airport’s parking policy has ignited a firestorm of protest, with the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) leading the charge against what it terms “extortionate” charges and “inconvenience” to tourists, travelers, and locals alike. A Mountain of Grievances The KCCI has leveled serious accusations against the Airport Authority of India…
Read MoreBorder Tourism in North Kashmir Faces Challenges Amid Militancy Surge
February 2021 ceasefire agreement had spurred nascent tourism, new off-roading circuits, and cross-border bonhomie; now, many areas are no-go zones, or require prior permission with stringent police vetting The growing militant footprint in the upper reaches of Jammu and Kashmir has cast a shadow over the border tourism that had picked up two years ago against the backdrop of a renewed ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan. The process to get passes for areas closer to the Line of Control (LoC) has now been made stringent again, and many areas…
Read MoreKashmir Chamber Warns Against Sale of Fake Handicrafts
Behind the Counterfeit Curtain: Kashmir’s Handicraft Battle Srinagar: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has sounded an alarm over the rampant sale of fake and machine-made products masquerading as authentic Kashmiri handicrafts. In a press conference held today, KCCI President Javid Ahmad Tenga expressed deep concern over the practice, stating that it is not only damaging the reputation of Kashmir’s rich handicraft heritage but also causing significant financial loss to genuine artisans and traders. “This is a shameful practice that is cutting into the very roots of our…
Read More