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…
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Business
New 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 MoreKashmir’s Hospitality at Risk: Proposed Fee Hike Sparks Outrage
Draft Tourism Trade Rules Face Backlash: Stakeholders Slam ‘Exorbitant’ Fees Srinagar, Aug 7: The tourism industry in Kashmir is up in arms following the administration’s notification of draft Tourism Trade Rules. The proposed regulations, which detail new registration and renewal fees for a wide range of tourism-related businesses, have sparked intense criticism from industry stakeholders. At the heart of the controversy are two key issues – a substantial hike in fees across various categories of establishments and the continuation of a two-year renewal policy, despite longstanding demands for a one-time registration…
Read MoreKashmir Trade Alliance Calls for Financial Stimulus: GST Amnesty in Focus
Kashmir Traders Body Urges GST Amnesty In Budget Srinagar: The Kashmir Trade Alliance (KTA) has called for a financial stimulus package for Jammu and Kashmir in the upcoming Union budget. The annual budget is set to be presented in Parliament next week. KTA President Aijaz Shahdhar expressed high expectations from the budget, citing the challenging economic conditions in the region. “Our businesses are facing tough times, and there’s a slump in the market. Post-COVID, apart from tourism, all sectors of Kashmir’s economy are suffering,” Shahdhar stated. “We also seek amnesty…
Read MoreBoosting Business in J&K: Government Approves Land Transfer and New Business Rules
New industrial estates to come up in Anantnag, Shopian, Budgam MHA notifies amended Business Rules of J&K Srinagar: In a significant move to boost industrial growth and create employment opportunities, the Jammu and Kashmir government has approved the transfer of 836 kanal 5 marla (approximately 104.5 acres) of land to the Industries and Commerce Department for the development of industrial estates in the Kashmir division. This decision, outlined in Government Order No 79-JK (Rev) of 2024 dated June 25, 2024, aims to establish industrial estates in the Anantnag, Shopian, and…
Read MoreThe Data Uprising: A Price Hike Symphony Sparks User Outrage and a Telecom Tug-of-War
From Discontent to Disruption: Can User Power Reshape India’s Telecom Landscape? By: Javid Amin India’s mobile data landscape is experiencing a seismic shift, and the tremors are shaking the very foundation of the industry. In a synchronized move, Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea, the big three telecom giants, have orchestrated a wave of significant price hikes on data plans. This strategic alignment has ignited a firestorm of user frustration, playing out on social media platforms like a digital protest symphony. Hashtags like “#JioBoycott” and “#AirtelThanksButNoThanks” blare like angry…
Read MoreFrom Conflict to Collaboration: Investors Flock to J&K’s Booming Landscape
Beyond the Beauty: Jammu and Kashmir’s Economic Renaissance Begins By: Javid Amin A Fresh Narrative Emerges For decades, the narrative surrounding Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) was often dominated by headlines about conflict and instability. However, a new chapter is unfolding, one etched with stories of opportunity, economic growth, and a resurgent spirit. This transformation is evident in the unprecedented land rush currently sweeping J&K, with a diverse range of investors vying for a stake in the Union Territory’s promising future. A Gateway for Diverse Investments The sheer number of applications…
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