Srinagar: Investors at a recent summit in Srinagar advised entrepreneurs from Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) to explore startup hubs in metropolitan cities like Bangalore and Mumbai to boost the region's burgeoning startup ecosystem. The interaction aims to provide exposure and guidance to entrepreneurs, helping them understand the dynamics of larger markets and attract potential investments.
The summit, held in October 2025, brought together entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers to discuss the expansion and challenges within the J&K startup environment. The event is expected to stimulate innovation and generate employment opportunities in the region. Discussions covered various industries, including technology, agriculture, and handicrafts, showcasing the diverse opportunities within J&K's startup ecosystem.
Several initiatives have played a crucial role in fostering local startups, including StartupJK and the government's Startup Policy 2024-2027, which offer essential resources and assistance. Recent statistics indicate a notable increase in startup registrations, with over 1,100 identified startups in the area by 2025. These initiatives have collectively generated nearly 5,000 direct jobs, with the aim of empowering local youth and women business owners.
Qasi Tauseef, a representative of the Kashmir Economic Alliance, emphasized that while the startup landscape in Kashmir holds significant promise, it requires consistent policy support, improved financial accessibility, and a culture that encourages innovation.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has also highlighted J&K's untapped potential for Agri-tech startups, noting that the region's geography and climate are conducive to cultivating medicinal and aromatic plants. He pointed out that the "Purple Revolution" originating in J&K offers attractive startup opportunities, with those in the lavender sector experiencing considerable success.
Recognizing the potential of startups in driving economic development, both the state and central governments have implemented policies and programs to create a favorable environment for entrepreneurial ventures. The Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) has launched initiatives such as the Jammu & Kashmir Startup Policy 2018-2028, Seed Capital Fund Scheme (SCFS), Project Himayat, National Minorities Development Finance Corporation (NMDFC), and Youth Startup Loan Scheme (YSLF) to promote and support startups.
Jammu and Kashmir is emerging as a promising startup hub, particularly in sectors like tourism, agriculture, handicrafts, and information technology. The J&K government has taken steps to boost entrepreneurship through initiatives like the revamped J&K Startup Policy, offering financial support, seed funding, patent aid, and registration assistance through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The government has also established incubators, co-working spaces, and training programs to enhance entrepreneurial skills and foster a vibrant startup culture.
Despite the presence of numerous registered startups, the ecosystem still faces challenges, including limited access to capital, inadequate infrastructure, and restricted market access. Addressing these challenges and fostering collaboration are crucial for J&K to transform into a thriving startup hub. To further propel the startup ecosystem, JKEDI and T-Hub, Hyderabad, have joined forces to provide opportunities for budding entrepreneurs in Jammu and Kashmir. This collaboration aims to create a vibrant ecosystem where ideas thrive and businesses flourish.
