Satish Sharma pledges support to J&K startups

Srinagar, Sep 27: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, on Saturday attended the concluding ceremony of the three-day National Convergence Platform “EMERGE 2026 – Connecting J&K”, organised in association with the Chamber of Commerce & Industries Kashmir (CCIK).

The event brought together young entrepreneurs, startup founders, business representatives, industry stakeholders and other participants for dialogue, networking and discussions on emerging opportunities in entrepreneurship and innovation.Addressing the gathering, Sharma appreciated the organisers for creating a platform that brought the entrepreneurial community, industry and government together. He particularly lauded the enthusiastic participation of young entrepreneurs and startups, saying their growing aspirations reflected the potential of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth.The Minister said the Government was committed to creating a conducive environment where innovative ideas could be transformed into viable enterprises and sustainable employment opportunities. He assured entrepreneurs and startup founders of all possible support within the Government’s mandate.Sharma stressed the need for close coordination among the Government, industry bodies, technology institutions, investors, startups and young innovators to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem and address challenges faced by emerging enterprises.Highlighting the growing role of technology and innovation, he said IT and Science & Technology could open new avenues in digital services, technology-enabled businesses, research and emerging sectors.“Our young entrepreneurs and startups are not merely seeking employment; they are creating opportunities for others,” Sharma said, adding that their ideas and innovation could contribute significantly to J&K’s economic growth.He encouraged youth to explore entrepreneurship and emerging sectors as viable career pathways and urged entrepreneurs to build sustainable business models, pursue innovation and explore collaborations.The Minister also appreciated CCIK for facilitating stakeholder convergence, saying sustained engagement between business organisations and the Government could help identify bottlenecks and develop practical mechanisms to support entrepreneurs.The concluding ceremony was attended by CCIK President Tariq Ghani, Senior Vice President Hussain Khan, JVP Dr Imran, Joint Secretary Aatif, Chief Coordinator Aashiq Bhat and Convener Umar Jan Wani. President JKHARA Babar Choudhary, besides entrepreneurs, startup representatives and other dignitaries, also attended.The three-day EMERGE 2026 provided a common platform for entrepreneurs, startups, business leaders and stakeholders, reinforcing the need for continued collaboration to promote innovation, entrepreneurship and youth-led economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir.