Economic Advisor, Union Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), D P S Negi, today chaired a meeting at Dak Bungalow here to examine project proposals for fast-tracking incubation and development of MSMEs in the district.The meeting was attended by DDC Baramulla Dr Nasir Ahmad Naqash, ADC Baramulla, Director Industries and Commerce, Director KVIB, Secretary KVIB, AD MSME, General Manager DIC Baramulla, industrialists, entrepreneurs, representatives of various trade associations of the district and others concerned.The meeting held threadbare discussions on prospects for promotion of MSMEs in the district. DC Kupwara informed the chair about the economic viability of potential industrial sectors like apple production, walnut processing, agriculture production and horticulture in the district. He also briefed the chair about the cross-LOC trade that is being carried through the district.
The DDC also appraised the Economic Advisor about various issues with regard to the industrial sector and said that lack of proper infrastructure hampers effective utilization of resources. He said these sectors can absorb a significant manpower thereby improve the socio-economic index of the society.Negi discussed various prospects for promotion of MSMEs with industrialists and entrepreneurs of the district. He said the district with an abundance of natural resources has been chosen as an aspirational district and the purpose of his visit was to explore ways for their maximum utilization while ensuring minimal disturbance to environmental sustainability.Representatives of various departments including industrialists and entrepreneurs urged support for the promotion of agriculture and allied sectors in the district. The Economic Advisor had a patient hearing and assured to chalk out ways for their redressal.Later, DPS Negi visited some industrial estates located at Mazboug, Doubgah and other places of Sopore town to get a first-hand appraisal of concerns of entrepreneurs and others associated with the sector.