Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed on Saturday his aspiration for the ‘Mission YUVA’ scheme to serve as a national model for self-employment initiatives, aiming to establish the Union Territory as a leader in entrepreneurship-driven development across India. He articulated this vision during the Yuva Mahotsav-Mission YUVA programme held at the Convention Centre in Jammu.
‘Mission YUVA’ Vision for National Impact
During his address to entrepreneurs and beneficiaries of the scheme, the Chief Minister stated, “In the future, not only should I believe this, but we have taken it as a mission that in the whole country, in all the states, if any self-employment or entrepreneurship scheme is used as an example, it should be the Jammu & Kashmir Mission Yuva Scheme.” He pledged continued government support for the initiative and urged beneficiaries to remain engaged with the scheme, consistently bringing forward new ideas and expansion plans for their ventures.
The Chief Minister acknowledged the pervasive issue of unemployment across Jammu and Kashmir, noting its presence in plains, hilly, and remote areas. He characterized the over-reliance on government hiring as a deficiency, emphasizing the critical need to cultivate opportunities for self-employment. “It is our duty to create a situation where people can create their own units. Instead of asking for jobs, you should be the ones who provide the jobs,” he remarked, underscoring the government’s objective to empower youth to transition from job seekers to job providers.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the Chief Minister highlighted the success of the scheme stemming from its mission-mode implementation, which he believes infuses seriousness, energy, and renewed focus. He noted that while schemes may continue, undertaking them in a mission mode brings a distinct level of commitment and vitality.
Addressing Entrepreneurial Challenges and Support
The Chief Minister extended gratitude to J&K Bank for its integral role in the scheme’s implementation. He recognized the difficulties entrepreneurs often face when seeking loans, including the need for collateral, guarantees, and the inherent risks involved. “Those who have opened units know how difficult it is to take a loan-where to get collateral, who will guarantee it. There is always fear that if the business fails, families may lose their assets,” he said, acknowledging the universal nature of risk in business, even for large industrialists.
He stressed that the government’s commitment extends beyond mere financial disbursement. “Our work is not just to give you a cheque. Even after that, we must support you, whether in marketing or expansion,” he stated. While acknowledging that entrepreneurship is inherently challenging and not every venture may succeed, he insisted that those with the potential should not be hindered by funding or project development report (DPR) issues.
Illustrative examples were provided, including a PhD holder from Srinagar who launched a mobile car spa service. The Chief Minister pointed out that such innovative ideas remain unrealized without adequate funding. He also referenced the complexity and global importance of platforms like OTT services for promoting J&K’s culture.
Integration with Other Initiatives and Financial Milestones
The Chief Minister called for the integration of Mission YUVA with other government initiatives, such as ‘Lakhpati Didi’. He expressed optimism that by connecting grassroots entrepreneurs with Mission YUVA, providing easy funding, and assisting with DPR preparation and marketing, ‘Lakhpati Didis’ could potentially become ‘Crorepati Didis’. The inclusive nature of the program was evident in the cross-party participation, which the Chief Minister noted as a testament to the non-political focus on reducing unemployment and supporting entrepreneurial spirit.
The event marked a significant financial milestone, with the Chief Minister overseeing a single-day mega disbursement of over Rs 100 crore across 3,003 cases. This achievement coincided with J&K Bank reaching a cumulative credit disbursement of Rs 1,000 crore under Mission YUVA. Additionally, a Credit Guarantee Fund for agri-allied activities was launched, and 20 Small Business Development Units (SBDUs) were inaugurated digitally. The Chief Minister engaged with entrepreneurs, lauded their business concepts, and distributed cheques to beneficiaries of the Neo Innovative Enterprises (Seed Money) and the 3,003 disbursal cases.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary described the initiative as the commencement of a transformative phase, reiterating the government’s commitment to enabling youth self-reliance and employment. Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo assured continued government support for the youth.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
