Srinagar: A high-level delegation from the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) Kashmir, led by its Chair A.P. Vicky Shaw, met with S.C.L. Das, Secretary, Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, in Srinagar to discuss strategies for strengthening the MSME ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir.
The meeting, which witnessed the presence of several senior officials, was also attended by Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce, J&K; Khalid Jehangir, Special Secretary; Khalid Majeed, Director Industries & Commerce, Kashmir; Himayu Wani, Co-Chair PHDCCI Kashmir; Bilal Kawoosa, General Convenor; Iqbal Fayaz Jan, Deputy Director PHDCCI; and other senior officials from the central MSME ministry and the J&K Industries Department.
During the meeting, the PHDCCI delegation submitted a detailed set of recommendations focused on unlocking the potential of the MSME sector in Jammu and Kashmir. These covered policy reforms, financial assistance, infrastructure augmentation, and tailored support for local artisans and industrial entrepreneurs.
Key proposals presented by PHDCCI included:
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Strict enforcement of Public Procurement Policy for MSMEs, to improve access to government contracts for local enterprises.
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Enhanced budgetary support and implementation of the New Central Sector Scheme (NCSS) for accelerated MSME development.
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Inclusion of handicraft and handloom traders under MSME Marketing Assistance schemes, to expand their market reach and formal recognition.
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Extension of the Vishwakarma Scheme to J&K’s artisan community, with region-specific modifications for supporting traditional crafts and sustaining livelihoods.
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Review and strengthening of the RAMP Scheme to ensure timely revival and rehabilitation of sick or distressed MSMEs.
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Upgradation of MSME clusters under the MSE-CDP Scheme, with focus on technology infusion and competitiveness enhancement.
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Comprehensive diagnostic study of existing and non-operational industrial units to identify revival potential and required interventions.
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Expedited land allotment for MSME entrepreneurs, addressing delays in approvals that have hampered industrial setup and expansion.
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Development of a logistics and warehousing policy specifically for Kashmir, to bridge infrastructure gaps and improve supply chain efficiency.
