MSME Forum Kashmir pushes for industrial reforms in meeting with Piyush Goyal

Srinagar, July 7: The Kashmir Chapter of the MSME Development Forum (MSME-DF), led by State Convenor Touseef Ahmed, held a detailed interaction with Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, in Srinagar on Saturday to highlight press- ing challenges and opportunities in Jammu & Kashmir’s industrial landscape.

According to a statement issued here, the delegation comprised Co-Convenor Khair Ul Nisa, Industries Head Parvaiz Qalander, and Handicrafts representative Sajad Shah, and focused on the need for targeted policy interventions to support micro, small, and medium enterprises in the region.

Parvaiz Qalander presented a comprehensive report outlining sectorspecific issues, while Sajad Shah drew attention to persistent handicraft sector concerns such as inadequate infra- structure, limited market access, and supply chain disruptions affecting artisans across Kashmir.

A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the book Setting Up Industry in Kashmir, authored by SP Qaiser, to the Union Minister. The book outlines strategies for industrial growth in the region and offers recommendations for creating a robust and sustainable ecosystem.

Piyush Goyal, as per the statement, appreciated the forum’s proactive efforts and assured full support from the Central Government in addressing the concerns raised. He reaffirmed the

government’s commitment to improving infrastructure, streamlining industrial processes, and promoting sustainable manufacturing under the ‘Zero Defect, Zero Effect’ vision.

Touseef Ahmed expressed gratitude for the Minister’s response and said the meet- ing marked a constructive step toward advancing industrial development and entrepreneurship in the region. “We are optimistic that this dialogue will result in actionable outcomes for local businesses and artisans,” he stated.