The concerns raised by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry before the Chief Secretary reflect the genuine difficulties being faced by the trade and industrial sectors in the Jammu region. These issues are not limited to individual cases alone but point towards larger structural and administrative challenges that need thoughtful and timely attention. For any region seeking economic growth and stability, the confidence of traders, industrialists, and small business owners remains essential. That confidence grows when governance is responsive, policies are clear, and long-pending issues are resolved fairly and practically.
One of the most important concerns relates to industrial plot holders who have received cancellation and eviction notices despite being unable to begin production because basic infrastructure has not been developed at the allotted sites. This is a serious matter that deserves a balanced and humane approach. When roads, power supply, water, drainage, and other necessary facilities are not made available in time, it becomes difficult for entrepreneurs to establish units within the prescribed period. In such circumstances, it is only reasonable that the affected plot holders are not made to suffer for delays caused by the system. Their request for withdrawal of eviction notices and for a fresh three-year lock-in period after full infrastructure is provided appears both practical and justified. The issue of delay in the finalization of the new industrial policy has also added to the uncertainty being faced by the industrial sector. At a time when businesses are already dealing with financial pressures and market challenges, the continuation of interim support becomes important. The demand for the continuation of benefits such as turnover incentives and interest subsidies until the new policy is finalized and implemented reflects the need for stability during a transitional phase. Such support can help protect existing units, preserve employment, and maintain confidence in the industrial environment. The suggestion to reserve a portion of newly developed industrial land for local educated youth is also a constructive and forward-looking proposal. Jammu and Kashmir needs an industrial development model that encourages local participation and creates opportunities for young entrepreneurs. The addition of special incentives for start-ups would further strengthen this approach by promoting innovation, self-employment, and new enterprise. If local youth are given access to land, financial support, and policy encouragement, they can become active contributors to the region’s economic progress. The concerns related to lease renewals in Fruit Mandi, Sabzi Mandi Narwal, and Shiv Market are equally important because they involve the livelihood and security of small traders. These shopkeepers have paid the full premium for their leasehold rights and have developed their establishments with personal effort and investment. In such cases, prolonged uncertainty creates hardship and weakens business confidence. Their appeal for immediate renewal of lease deeds deserves sympathetic consideration so that the matter can be resolved in a fair and lasting manner. Similarly, the issue of the Bahu Plaza shopkeeper calls for an amicable and practical resolution. If traders have paid the premium amount and regular rent is also being collected, then the issuance of allotment cancellation notices naturally causes distress and confusion. Such matters must be addressed with transparency, consistency, and a sense of justice. A clear modality to settle these cases would go a long way in restoring trust and protecting the interests of those who have invested their savings into their businesses. The Chamber’s emphasis on tourism development in Jammu also highlights an area of significant economic potential. Tourism can contribute greatly to employment generation, infrastructure development, and local commerce. If financial support from external institutions is limited, then stronger efforts should be made to secure adequate assistance from the union government for the sector’s development. A modern and well-supported tourism policy can become an important driver of growth in the region.
Overall, the issues raised before the chief secretary underline the need for responsive governance and timely administrative intervention. When genuine concerns of traders, industrial plot holders, and small business owners are heard with seriousness and empathy, it strengthens both economic confidence and public trust. Jammu’s growth story can become more balanced and sustainable when pending issues are resolved with fairness, clarity, and a commitment to inclusive development.