J&K Must Emerge as a National Hub for D2C Innovation, Says Satish Sharma at D2CIA National Conclave
Srinagar, June 27: Jammu & Kashmir Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, Science & Technology, and ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma, on Saturday called for positioning Jammu & Kashmir as a national hub for Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) innovation, asserting that entrepreneurship, technology and digital transformation would play a pivotal role in the region's economic growth.
The Minister was addressing the D2CIA 1st National Conclave 2026, where the Jammu & Kashmir Chapter of the D2C Industry Association (D2CIA) was formally launched. Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, filmmakers, entrepreneurs, startup founders, industry leaders and other stakeholders were present on the occasion.
Describing the launch of the D2CIA J&K Chapter as a significant milestone, Sharma said it reflects growing investor confidence in Jammu & Kashmir and strengthens the region's journey towards an innovation-driven economy.
He said the government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is committed to fostering an enabling ecosystem for entrepreneurship, innovation and employment generation through transparent governance, progressive policies, digital transformation and skill development initiatives.
Highlighting the expanding potential of the Direct-to-Consumer sector, the Minister said the future of commerce lies in technology-driven enterprises capable of connecting directly with consumers. He stressed the need to empower startups, MSMEs, artisans, farmers and young entrepreneurs through digital platforms, improved market access and policy support.
Referring to the tourism sector, Sharma said Jammu & Kashmir is witnessing unprecedented growth with record tourist arrivals, improved infrastructure and the development of new tourism circuits, creating fresh opportunities for businesses and generating sustainable employment.
He also reiterated the government's commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and athlete development, describing investments in sports as investments in the future of the region's youth.
Addressing the issue of drug abuse, Sharma said the government's anti-drug campaign remains a top priority and urged educational institutions, civil society, families and community leaders to work collectively to safeguard young people from substance abuse.
Inviting entrepreneurs and industry leaders to invest in Jammu & Kashmir, the Minister assured them of continued government support through ease-of-doing-business reforms, investment facilitation and stronger industry-government partnerships.
Speaking on the occasion, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani said the government is focused on building an ecosystem where entrepreneurship, innovation and technology serve as the driving forces of economic transformation. He said Jammu & Kashmir holds immense potential in the D2C, startup and MSME sectors, and that the newly launched D2CIA Chapter would provide local enterprises with a platform to connect with national and global markets.
Wani emphasized that sustained collaboration among the government, industry, academic institutions and entrepreneurs is essential for building a resilient, future-ready economy. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to policy support, investment facilitation and skill development to position Jammu & Kashmir as a competitive destination for innovation, enterprise and sustainable economic growth.
