Srinagar, Aug 06: On the directions of Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) President Mohammad Yaseen Khan, who is currently out of the Valley, a high level delegation of KTMF Wednesday called on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and apprised him of various developmental and trade-related concerns of the Shopian district.
The delegation was led by KTMF senior functionary Qazi Tauseef and included senior office bearers of the Traders Federation Shopian which has long been a vital constituent of KTMF.
The delegation comprised President Traders Federation Shopian Mushtaq Ahmad Nakashi, Chairman Traders Federation Shopian Riyaz Ahmad Mantoo, Mohammad Usman, Mohammad Shafi Tak, Parvez Ahmad Mantoo, Mohammad Usman Turray, Parvez Ahmad Beigh, Mukhtar Ahmad Lone and Suhail Bhat.
During the detailed interaction the delegation highlighted a number of pressing issues facing the business community of Shopian district.
Various issues which were discussed with the Chief Minister include, Poor road connectivity and lack of basic infrastructure which hampers not only daily business activities but also the overall movement of goods and services.
Improvement of road connectivity to Shopian, particularly the vital Mughal Road and internal link roads which remain in poor condition and frequently hamper transportation of goods and movement of people. The delegation stressed the need for immediate repair, widening and upgradation of these roads to boost trade and tourism.
Also the need for a comprehensive business revival plan post pandemic and post conflict challenges that have severely affected traders. In addition to above issues, frequent power issues which disrupt modern trade practices, especially digital payments and logistics coordination was also discussed. Mainly neglect of the district in various government schemes and developmental initiatives despite its economic and strategic importance were the issues which were discussed.
The delegation also strongly advocated for greater government attention towards Shopian pointing out that despite being an agriculturally rich and commercially active district it has remained on the sidelines of key developmental projects.
In a symbolic gesture of goodwill and confidence the delegation formally invited the Chief Minister to visit Shopian along with his cabinet colleagues to witness the situation firsthand and engage with the local business community.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah warmly accepted the invitation and assured the delegation that he would soon visit the district. He expressed his government’s commitment to equitable development and acknowledged the important role played by the business community in the J&K’s progress.
