Samba, Jan 29 (KNO): Citing recent incidents in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand as a cautionary warning, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said he cannot advise the J&K people to seek employment outside the Union Territory.
Talking to reporters here, CM Omar, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said, “Unemployment is a major challenge. We cannot solve it solely through government jobs. Like other states, I cannot tell my people to leave J&K for employment elsewhere. Have you seen what happened in Himachal or Uttarakhand? Instead, our focus must be on strengthening opportunities within J&K.”
He stressed the urgent need to build a strong industrial and entrepreneurial ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir to engage the youth.
The Chief Minister said, “Our goal is to nurture a culture of entrepreneurship and start-ups in J&K. A foundation has already been laid and it is now our responsibility to build upon it.”
The CM stressed importance of policy reforms and timely interventions, stating, “We need to introduce policy changes that facilitate entrepreneurship, ensure funding for ideas and highlight local success stories so that people are inspired to innovate.”
Responding to questions about remarks made by a local National Conference MLA regarding Kashmiri Pandits: “He is my MLA, but he has his own opinion. BJP’s MLA has also issued statements, but the party has clarified that this is not its official position.”
Referring to industrial challenges, the CM said, “Many factories have closed down. We will try to assist those who have shut down their operations. We will help struggling businesses and, if a need arises, reallocate land to more productive ventures.”
He said, “This is the first time since the 1990’s that J&K is witnessing a central package and incentives for industry. We are working with the Centre to secure a comprehensive package that will promote industrial growth in the region.”—(KNO)