MIAN TUFAIL
THE prestigious Kashmir Central Conclave unfolded at Niryat Bhawan, Delhi on December 19, marking a significant collaboration and support for the progressive journey of Jammu & Kashmir in the realms of democratic dividends and socio-economic development. The Valley takes centre-stage in the economic landscape as the conclave, in collaboration with the Indian Economic Trade Organisation (IETO) and India-Africa Trade Council (IATC), kicked off a momentous dialogue aimed at fostering economic development, trade, and investment in the region.
The programme, an eloquent ode to the democratic dividend, illuminated the development lexicon of the now flourishing Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Propelled by newfound aspirations, the region has etched unprecedented records across diverse developmental parameters. The spotlight was cast on achieving sustainable industrial development and economic growth, unveiling policies designed to dismantle political and topographical barriers, and championing the cause of grassroots empowerment for local entrepreneurs.
Dr. Asif Iqbal, president of the Indian Economic Trade Organisation (IETO), extended a warm welcome to the esteemed panelists and audience. In his opening pronouncements, Dr. Asif articulated, “Our mission is to delve into the remarkable strides Jammu and Kashmir has taken in various developmental facets. We aim to implore stakeholders to invest in Jammu and Kashmir, thereby propelling the region into a sustainable hub of growth and development”.
The event unfolded in two meticulously curated sessions, each adorned with distinct themes and a constellation of erudite panelists. The inaugural session, under the theme ‘Strengthening Longstanding Ties for Trade and Development – 2024 Game Plan’, witnessed an intellectual confluence of luminaries engaging in profound discussions. The distinguished panelists included Dr. Nishakant Ojha, eminent defence expert and advisor, Counter Terrorism for West Asia & the Middle East; Anil Trigunayat IFS (Retd) who has had diplomatic assignments to Jordan, Libya & Malta; Mohammed Amin, former joint director, Election Commission of India; Major Gen. Sanjay Soi, an authority on international affairs and defence; Bikram Pandey Kaaji, an international goodwill ambassador; and Bashir Assad, editor-in-chief, Kashmir Central. The session found its orchestrator in Venus Upadhaya, a senior reporter covering India and South Asia for Epoch Times.
Bashir Assad eloquently underscored the protracted political uncertainty the region has weathered, accentuating the tables turning towards a future of prosperity. He emphasised the imperative for vigilance and meticulous planning by the local administration in shaping the narrative of Naya Kashmir.
Venus Upadhaya, in a moment of enlightenment, proclaimed, “The narrative surrounding the abrogation of Article 370, suggesting a stripping of autonomy from the region, is nothing more than western propaganda devoid of any substantive merit”.
Former Joint Director, ECI, Mohammad Amin contributed insightful perspectives during the discussion, noting, “Some individuals benefitted from the protective umbrella of Article 370 in the Valley, and today, we witness comprehensive representation across all sections of Jammu and Kashmir post the delimitation exercise. This representation heralds a burgeoning era of trade and development for the region.”
Dr. Nishakant Ojha, an eminent defence expert with a wealth of experience in the politics of the Middle East and Arab countries, urged a nuanced approach, stating, “Strategic states like J&K, with close borders to different countries and serving as a gateway to central Asia, demand careful handling. The central government must play a pivotal role in attracting investment to J&K and aligning the region with its counterparts”.
Major General Soi delved into the complexities of information warfare and contemporary technological challenges. He articulated, “Information warfare, often misconstrued as media-centric, is inherently intertwined with military and international relations. Securing the environment in J&K is paramount, especially given the primarily agrarian population. The government must guide private actors to establish businesses in Kashmir, fostering employment for the local youth”.
Bikram Pandey artfully drew parallels between the tourism potential of Kashmir and Nepal, accentuating the shared topography of mountainous landscapes and unexplored, pristine locations. He envisioned a symbiotic connection between the two, foreseeing a boom in social and cultural tourism if the two regions were seamlessly connected.
The transformative journey of Kashmir’s socio-economic landscape was poetically underscored, revealing the region’s unparalleled magnificence and the potential of its stunningly beautiful landscape, enriched by an opulent cultural heritage and strategic partnerships.
The second session, artfully moderated by Prof. (Dr.) D K Giri, secretary general of the Association for Democratic Socialism, delved into the theme ‘Trade and Commercial Outlook vis-a-vis Kashmir’. The panelists, including Dr Manorama Bakshi, vice president, India Kashmir Samaj; Shams Khwaja, a luminary in constitutional law; Shaikh Ashiq Ahmed, former president, Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry; Samir Shah, chairman, Information & Communications Technology Association; J K Dadoo, IAS (Retd.) & former additional secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Government of India; and Abdul Salam Ibrahim, engaged in an intellectually stimulating debate.
Each session concluded with meticulously organised question and answer segments, enhancing the participatory nature of the event. Notably, the national new channel News X stood as the media partner, capturing and disseminating the essence of this intellectually invigorating conclave.
The second part of the Kashmir Central Conclave unfurled with Dr Bakshi delicately illuminating the tribulations faced by Kashmiri Pandits. Her articulate appeal resonated with a call for a holistic public private partnership, elegantly poised to orchestrate the symphony of development in the landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. The ensuing discourse, infused with a blend of wisdom and vision, laid the foundation for an intellectually charged session.
Building upon the profound insights of J K Dadoo, expounded in the antecedent narrative, the conclave continued to weave a narrative of strategic acumen and collaborative aspirations. His enriching insights have been comprehensively illustrated in an article written by him.
Shams Khwaja unmasked some unvarnished truths. His address to policymakers carried a nuanced plea, urging a discerning understanding of the nuanced roles played by the national leader and the Government of India. He enjoined, “Do not ascribe every lamentable incident to the head of this country. For Kashmir, his commitment is profound, and cognizance of missed opportunities is acute. The government, with a determined intent, is bridging the gap between executive corridors and grassroots realities. It is an opportune juncture to unite the entirety of Kashmir and weave a seamless affiliation with PoK colleges and universities, aligning with AICTE and UGC, to assert our claim in the most authentic sense”.
Sheikh Ashiq, navigating the intricate economic landscape of Kashmir, artfully elucidated the prevailing bottlenecks. He said, “Our paramount challenge presently lies in the reinvigoration of J&K’s economy. Robust policies, meticulously implementations, stand as imperatives. The dismal pace of exports from Kashmir demands an impetus through infrastructural fortification, with collaborative support from both public and private agencies”.
Samir Shah, a maestro of Information Communication and Technology (ICT), cast a spotlight on the transformative potential of this technological symphony.
Abdul Salam, in a poignant reflection, addressed the disconnection between the netizens of Kashmir and the administrative echelons. He underscored the imperative of nurturing the political leadership acumen of Kashmir’s youth, envisioning forthcoming elections as a constructive force rather than a destructive tempest. Salam passionately advocated for Kashmir to embrace India as its own, projecting the region as an epitome of the noblest form of Islam.
In his vote of thanks, Bashir Assad, in a graceful expression of gratitude, extended heartfelt thanks to the discerning audience and speakers, acknowledging their pivotal role in the success of the gathering. His said, “The Kashmir Central Conclave marks a significant juncture in our collective pursuit to unlock the economic potential of this region. Through collaborative endeavours and strategic alliances, we aspire to cultivate a thriving ecosystem that not only uplifts the people of Kashmir but also contributes substantially to the overall prosperity of our nation”.
The event culminated in a regal felicitation of distinguished luminaries, working in heritage conservation, and astute policy architects. Noteworthy figures including Ravinder Pandita, head of Save Sharda Committee, were honoured for their commendable contributions.
As the conclave concluded, there was a palpable sense of optimism regarding the future of Kashmir’s economic landscape. The strengthened ties forged during the event are expected to pave the way for increased trade, investment, and overall development in the region. The conclave served as a platform for building consensus, fostering collaboration, and laying the groundwork for a prosperous and a sustainable future for Kashmir.
