SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday chaired a meeting with a delegation of traders from the Kashmir Valley, where key economic and infrastructure-related concerns were raised by the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF). The meeting was aimed at assessing the current challenges faced by the business community and identifying measures for economic recovery.
The delegation, led by KTMF Chairman Mohammad Yaseen Khan, presented a detailed list of demands, including the deferment of monthly bank loan instalments, interest subvention, road connectivity issues, and lack of dedicated marketplaces. They also sought subsidised transport charges for air-conditioned vans transporting horticultural produce to southern terminal markets.
In response, the Chief Minister assured the delegation that all raised issues had been noted for timely action. He said the government had directed relevant departments to engage with the trader community respectfully and ensure no undue inconvenience was caused. He also called for coordinated efforts to address concerns such as roadside encroachments, street vending near shops, and limited access to key markets.
“The economy has witnessed long-term challenges, and while our resources are limited, we will make the best possible use of what is available,” the Chief Minister said during the interaction.
Omar Abdullah also highlighted progress on ongoing infrastructure works. He informed the delegation that orders for essential medical equipment, including cath labs and MRI machines, had been placed, and that the Finance Department had been instructed to release funds for macadamisation of roads.
He said the government was making efforts to prioritise local contractors in public works to boost local employment and economic activity. The Chief Minister also said that the matters related to interest subvention and deferment of loan instalments would be taken up with the Union Finance Ministry.
“We will continue to monitor these issues closely and take necessary action,” he said.
Additional Chief Secretary Dheeraj Gupta and other senior officials were also present.
