SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Wednesday reviewed the progress of the proposed PM Ekta Malls in Jammu and Srinagar, with Letters of Award for both projects expected by the third week of November 2026.
The two projects, with a combined approved cost of Rs 255 crore, are being undertaken by the Industries and Commerce Department through the Public Works Department (PWD). The malls are planned as commercial and cultural hubs to promote local handicrafts, handlooms, indigenous products and the cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir alongside those of other states and Union Territories.
During the review meeting, Dulloo stressed the need to develop the facilities as platforms for strengthening market access for local artisans, craftspeople, entrepreneurs and producers. He said the initiative would also support tourism promotion, enterprise development and sustainable livelihoods.
The Chief Secretary emphasised that the malls would provide greater visibility and market opportunities for products covered under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative and those carrying Geographical Indication (GI) tags, helping local producers reach wider domestic and international markets.
Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce, Vikramjit Singh, informed the meeting that the Jammu mall is proposed to be constructed over 24 kanals at the Rail Head Complex. The facility will have two basement levels, a ground floor and three upper floors, with an estimated total floor area of 2.14 lakh square feet. It has received administrative approval of Rs 125 crore.
The proposed facilities include retail outlets, workspaces, a craft museum or art gallery, exhibition and trade facilitation areas, public cultural spaces, a food court and family amenities.
The Srinagar mall is planned at the Kashmir Haat Complex on the Jehangir Chowk–Batmaloo Road, covering 15 kanals. The six-level facility, comprising one basement, a ground floor and four upper floors, will have an estimated floor area of 1.81 lakh square feet. The project has been approved at a cost of Rs 130 crore.
Its proposed facilities include retail shops, a craft museum, an exhibition hall, trade facilitation spaces, an auditorium, an indoor amphitheatre, a food court, dining facilities and guest accommodation.
The meeting was informed that the contract committee had considered both projects on October 19, 2026, and the Letters of Award were expected to be issued by the third week of November.
The malls are proposed to be operated and maintained under the public-private partnership (PPP) model, with private partners to be selected through competitive bidding. The government will retain policy and strategic oversight of the initiative.
The meeting was attended by the Additional Chief Secretary, PWD; Commissioner Secretary, Industries and Commerce; Secretary, Planning; heads of departments from Industries and Commerce; and other senior officials concerned.
