Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, May 21: N. N. Vohra, Governor, today observed that Jammu and Kashmir has vast potential for the establishment of industrial ventures based on agricultural and horticultural produce, particularly fruit processing and cold storages; floriculture; pharmaceuticals; tourism; hospitality; and varied other sectors, besides the large range of products of the handicraft sector and carpet making to generate large scale economic activity and employment opportunities which can make J&K a frontline developed State in the coming years.
The Governor was interacting with a 7-member delegation of the Confederation of India Industries (CII), Kashmir Zone, led by Sheikh Imran, which called on him at Raj Bhavan here today.
The Governor emphasized the need for optimally benefiting from the inherent potentials of all the regions of the State, adding that the CII could make a signal contribution by enabling the setting up of area and potential specific pilot projects which would trigger large scale initiatives all over the State.
He also emphasized the vital importance of creating greater awareness among the growers about the latest know-how and making post-harvesting technologies available to them. The establishment of fruit processing units would enlarge the growers incomes, contribute to value addition and towards generating employment. He added that grading, packaging and establishing a cold chain are among the other areas requiring attention, for the larger benefit of the growers in the State.
Referring to the Ladakh region, the Governor observed that much could be done for the apricot growers there by promoting the latest technologies for drying, grading and packaging of this fruit. He said that the Leh Berry is another natural product which has tremendous potential for generating economic activity and employment avenues in this region.
This group of young entrepreneurs also briefed the Governor about success of their own ventures set up in different arenas. They added that as part of corporate social responsibility, the CII would be shortly launching post-earthquake rehabilitation work in Doda and Kishtwar districts.
The delegation led by Sheikh Imran comprised Farooq Amin, Waseem Trumboo, Mudasir Khan, Amit Wanchoo, Khurshid Dar and Shahala Sheikh.
Navin K. Choudhary, Principal Secretary to the Governor, was present during the discussions.
Meanwhile, Dilbagh Singh, Managing Director, Police Housing Corporation, called on Mr. Vohra, and briefed him about the various infrastructure development projects being executed by the Police Housing Corporation.
While lauding the good work being done by the Police Housing Corporation, the Governor urged Mr. Dilbagh Singh to ensure quality control and the completion of all projects within the envisaged time frames. He also stressed the need to keep environmental concerns in view and to provide for solar energy and rain water harvesting in all housing colonies and commercial complexes.
Dr. Girija Dhar, President, Women’s Welfare Trust, Srinagar also called on Mr. Vohra and briefed him about the activities of the Trust. The Governor complimented Dr. Dhar and her valuable colleagues in the Women’s Welfare Trust for their commitment towards the promotion of education of the girl child by reviving and running two schools in Srinagar which have a historical background. He assured Dr. Dhar of support to the Trust for promoting the education of the girl child.
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