Jammu: The Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Jammu Chapter, led by Chairman Rahul Sahai, has extended its appreciation to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for reviving the longstanding tradition of budget consultations—a practice that had remained dormant for an extended period. This initiative marks a significant step toward making Jammu & Kashmir a revenue-positive Union Territory while fostering economic growth and social welfare, ICC said.
During a stakeholder interaction on Budget 2025-26, Rahul Sahai and ICC Jammu presented a comprehensive set of recommendations spanning industries, MSMEs, education, social welfare, tourism, and sports. These proposals aim to strengthen industrial growth, enhance social infrastructure, and position Jammu & Kashmir as a premier destination for investment and tourism.
Key Proposals by ICC Jammu
Industry and MSMEs
A major focus of the discussions was the need for a special incentive package for local industries, aligning with the NCSS 2021 scheme to ensure a level playing field. ICC Jammu strongly advocated for:
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GST incentives, capital subsidies, and interest reimbursements at par with the NCSS package to sustain and promote local businesses.
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Toll tax on certain imports to protect local industries such as flour mills, brick kilns, tiles, steel, and edible oil manufacturing.
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Streamlining SGST reimbursements through treasury reforms.
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Freehold rights for old industrial estates in Gangyal, Digiana, Birpur, and Bari Brahmana.
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Price preference for local industries in government procurement processes.
Sports and Exhibitions
Recognizing the economic and tourism potential of sports and exhibitions, ICC Jammu proposed:
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Budget allocations for the construction of two new stadiums in Jammu.
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A state-of-the-art indoor sports facility to boost sporting activities.
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An annual sports calendar featuring key sporting events to encourage youth participation and sports tourism.
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Budget provisions for golf tournaments to promote golf tourism.
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Establishment of a modern exhibition ground in Jammu and Surajkund-style melas to showcase products from across India.
Social Welfare Initiatives
To address urban infrastructure and planning, ICC Jammu emphasized:
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The urgent need for structured parking solutions on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to reduce congestion.
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Development of new housing colonies for planned urban expansion.
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Swift resolution of lease deed renewals and simplification of Gair Mumkin Khad land clearance procedures.
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A dedicated budget for skill development programs to equip the local workforce with industry-relevant skills for better employment opportunities.
Tourism and Hospitality
To elevate J&K’s appeal as a leading tourist destination, ICC Jammu recommended:
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Easing liquor licensing for bars in hotels to encourage hospitality growth.
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Establishing robust tourist facilitation centers at entry and exit points.
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Utilizing digital platforms, social media influencers, and vloggers to showcase J&K’s tourism potential.
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Online booking systems for tourist destinations to streamline visitor experiences.
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A comprehensive review of the homestay policy to encourage rural tourism.
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Improved inter-UT connectivity, including:
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Introduction of Vande Bharat trains between Jammu and Srinagar.
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A metro project linking Jammu to Katra and Kathua.
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