KCCI Delegation Meets LG Manoj Sinha; Flags Economic, Tourism Concerns

SRINAGAR: A delegation of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), led by its President Javid Ahmad Tenga, met Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at Raj Bhawan Srinagar on Wednesday to highlight urgent economic, tourism, and public welfare concerns requiring administrative intervention.

The delegation included Senior Vice President Ashiq Hussain Shangloo, Junior Vice President Fayaz Ahmad Punjabi, Joint Secretary General Umar Nazir Tibetbaqal, and Treasurer Zubair Mahajan.

During the meeting, the KCCI delegation reaffirmed support for the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra and emphasized Kashmir’s longstanding tradition of communal harmony, hospitality, and mutual respect. The Chamber requested comprehensive administrative arrangements for the smooth conduct of the Yatra and appealed for hassle-free tourist access across the Valley during the pilgrimage period.

The delegation also called upon the administration to ensure smooth and respectful observance of Muharram, which holds religious significance as the first month of the Islamic calendar.

Drawing attention to the fallout of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, KCCI highlighted the significant economic disruption in the tourism sector. While welcoming the recent reopening of 16 tourist destinations, the Chamber urged the Lieutenant Governor to facilitate the reopening of all remaining tourist spots to help stabilise the region’s economy.

In view of the mounting financial stress on local businesses, the delegation sought an extension of at least six months for the repayment deadline under Jammu and Kashmir Bank’s Special One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme, Karz Se Mukti. The Chamber also requested that a new, revised OTS scheme be announced with an enhanced ceiling aligned with MSME guidelines, allowing more distressed units to benefit.

The Lieutenant Governor assured the delegation that the issues raised would be addressed with sincerity and a constructive approach. He reiterated the administration’s commitment to reviving tourism in Kashmir and pledged continued support for economic revitalisation efforts. “The people of Jammu and Kashmir will soon witness the return of tourism to its pre-Pahalgam incident strength,” the LG said.

The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry reaffirmed its resolve to support peace, economic revival, and social harmony in the region.