Growth Rooted in Reforms

The economic transformation unfolding in Jammu and Kashmir is not just a narrative of numbers, but one of vision, resilience, and carefully implemented policy reform. The recent developments in the Union Territory paint a promising picture of a region gradually rising from decades of economic underdevelopment, political instability, and missed opportunities. The success of Mega Job Fair 2025, organized through a collaborative effort between Cluster University of Jammu and Desh Bhagat University Punjab, is a defining moment in this journey. It is reflective of the changing winds—winds driven by progressive industrial policy, a responsive private sector, and a growing culture of entrepreneurship among the region’s youth.

What makes this moment significant is not merely the organization of a job fair or the distribution of offer letters. It is the broader context in which these events are taking place. Since 2021, there has been a visible thrust on industrial expansion in Jammu and Kashmir. The Union Territory, once perceived as lacking in private sector opportunities, is today witnessing projects worth ₹25,000 crore at various stages of implementation. Of these, projects worth ₹10,000 crore have already been completed and begun operations—offering employment, skilling opportunities, and most importantly, hope. Another ₹15,000 crore worth of projects is expected to go live within this year, indicating a structured and paced industrial rollout. Additionally, proposals worth nearly ₹60,000 crore are pending, suggesting sustained investor interest despite inherent logistical and infrastructural challenges. What is particularly noteworthy is the role of policy as a facilitator. The new industrial policy crafted for Jammu and Kashmir has prioritized employment for local youth, incentivized investment in underdeveloped regions, and promoted transparency and ease of doing business. These factors are beginning to pay off. Today, private companies are not just looking at Jammu and Kashmir as a distant, difficult investment zone—they are actively setting up operations in small towns and rural belts. One of the striking examples is the BPO established by Atomic North Private Limited in a village in Kathua, which currently employs nearly 375 youth with potential expansion to over a thousand. Similarly, JSW Group is planning to open another BPO unit in Jammu, reflecting the confidence of national players in the region’s workforce and policy ecosystem. Equally important is the government’s emphasis on employability enhancement. Initiatives like Mission Youth, PMEGP, Hausla, Tejaswini, and Mumkin have been instrumental in creating both wage-based and self-employment opportunities. The seamless integration of job fairs with skilling and entrepreneurship programs ensures that youth are not merely trained but are connected to real market opportunities. The presence of 57 reputed companies and participation of over 3,700 youth at the Mega Job Fair underscores this alignment between education and employment. Moreover, the endorsement of BBA and BCA courses by AICTE for Cluster University further cements the institutional effort to align curriculum with industry demand. These courses, designed with the modern economic landscape in mind, will better prepare students to step confidently into jobs or entrepreneurial ventures. The confluence of academia, government support, and private sector participation is essential for sustaining long-term economic development, and Jammu and Kashmir is finally building that triad.Another silent yet powerful factor in this economic narrative is the gradual emergence of a startup culture. Though still in its infancy, the idea of entrepreneurship is taking root, especially among educated youth who are now looking beyond government jobs and exploring private ventures in technology, services, and agriculture. The government’s push for entrepreneurial programs and incubation support has created the necessary environment for such ventures to not only emerge but grow. The real victory lies in the gradual cultural shift—where uncertainty is being replaced by aspiration, and apprehension by action. Economic transformation in Jammu and Kashmir will not happen overnight. It requires sustained policy consistency, infrastructure investment, and above all, trust-building among the youth and business community. But what is visible now is a foundation—a strong and stable one—on which an inclusive and resilient economy can be built. The Union Territory still faces challenges, from land acquisition bottlenecks to connectivity constraints and periodic security concerns. However, the resolve to overcome these hurdles appears stronger than ever. The government’s proactive engagement with the private sector, coupled with a youth population eager to work, learn, and lead, is a combination that can redefine Jammu and Kashmir’s economic destiny.

The time has come to recognize that the region’s future will be shaped as much in its classrooms and conference halls as on its shop floors and startup labs. With consistent effort, smart policy, and shared vision, the transformation that once seemed distant is now palpably underway.