Conflict renders money useless in Kashmir
BILAL HUSSAIN
The unending unrest in Kashmir has rendered the currency worthless as it couldn’t serve the very purpose of money. The currency here during these tough times couldn’t be used to procure essential commodities, medical services, transportation and many other vitals for survival as there are no takers for it at this point of time due to continuing curfew and protests. Baring few days market places in the valley remained closed for over three months now.
The currency, a tool used for means of exchange, a standard unity to measure value and a means to store wealth, officially coined or stamped metal currency; a form or denomination of coin or paper money. However, factually during conflict times like the one Kashmir at present is witnessing since past three months, it serves almost none of these purposes. All it can do here is to make lockers, purses and pockets heavier.
The imposition of stringent curfew since September 12, 2010 in the valley has not only halted every segment of life but has virtually made survival hardest. Practically, what has happened in the past three months is that there has been negligible [if at all] free flow of money which has left it standstill. Although, there have been reports that people at large withdrew bulk of currency notes, tens of millions of rupees, from banks and their ATMs across the valley, however, the same is not circulated due to the unrest.
In a situation like this what takes place is that the money is transformed nonfunctional; people here prefer barter system, in which goods are exchanged for good, over currency. There seems to have been a deadlock in money supply, the total amount of money available in an economy at a particular point in time, which has currently supplemented demonetization in Kashmir. Wroth while to mention here that the trade across the line of control between divided Kashmir takes place through barter system only.
All this has affected the monetary system —secures the proper functioning of money by regulating economic agents, transaction types, and money supply— of Kashmir. Though there is no formal system of calculation of weekly food inflation here, but it is of sure that it would be all time high. While the real estate prices have gone down to a greater extent, brokers find it difficult to trace buyer of immovable properties.
Though, there are people however, small in number in the valley who still have capacities to purchase essentials of life but alas! their money too could no more fetch them all that money could but for them. Closure of markets, cut off supply and low productions [Agriculture and horticulture] and ever increasing demand of essentials particularly food items has further devalued money here.
Scores of people who have lots of money to burn shared how money no longer buys them goods and services here in the present situation. An elite friend of mine few days back told me that he withdrew pretty good cash from his saving bank account fearing the prolonging of unrest. However, regardless of his money it could fetch him nothing but wastage of time while waiting in a long queue for taking out some bucks from a private bank. He lamented how his money couldn’t even buy a pain killer medicine leave aside other non essential products for him. “I was ready to pay any amount for a single tablet of medicine as I was unable to bear tooth ache any further,” he rued. There are many more stories alike that remained untold but essence remains same ‘money has become useless’.
In the prevailing situation in the valley the money is unable to purchase goods, so it becomes worthless. This is not something specific to Kashmir but in particular countries, wars have produced this effect, notably in the revolutionary wars in both the United States and France, when the currency became of no value.
In a lighter vein, for others [love birds] the currency no longer could get them recharge coupons for ‘telephonic romance’ because of which they are quite unhappy with the curfews, which enforces them to stay indoors without any connections to each other. Some have resorted to internet wherein they can exchange mails, messages, wall postings and chats on social networking sites like facebook, orkut and others. There are some internet service providers who have not snapped internet connections despite non payments of bills. “I am planning to divorce mobile connection and get an internet connection which seems a viable options during these troubled times,” one of know person to me mentions. All they could hope is some respite in curfews so that their money could gather some sellable and services for them to ease their ‘love connections’. Is it time to seek real value beyond money?
Showing posts with label Conflict. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Conflict. Show all posts
Kashmir Inc turns down economic package
BILAL HUSSAIN
In a significant development here the business fraternity in Kashmir valley prefers to talk about ‘gross human rights violation’ over financial losses they have been suffering from past three months of unrest on Monday in a meet with the all-party 39-member team from New Delhi.
Most of the representatives of the commerce, trade, and industrial bodies told Kashmir Times that they are least worried about the business losses suffered by them however, they are concern over hundred killings of people in Kashmir by the police and paramilitary troopers since June this year.
The President, Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Nazir Ahmad Dar told KT that he appraised the all-party team from New Delhi about the killings of innocent Kashmiris and demanded investigation through an impartial agency and guilty ‘security personnel’ be punished.
The KKCI has handed over a memorandum to the all-party team wherein they seek ‘Kashmir problem needs to be solved in all seriousness in its historic perspective. It needs to be emphasized that a symptomatic treatment is simply not the option.’ The memorandum also mentions, “Process leading to de-militarization of state needs to be started at once. Black laws like AFPSA, Disturbed Area Act & PSA need to be revoked at once. The rhetoric of zero degree tolerance of human rights violations need to be translated into a reality on ground.”
The business community has turned down any kind of economic compensation. The President, Federation Chamber of Industry Kashmir (FCIK), Shakeel Qalander who also met the all-party team echoed the similar concerns and while briefing delegation said, “We don’t ask for economic packages and loss compensation. All we want is an end to perpetual spree of killing especially our youth. We demanded constitution of Truth and Reconciliatory Commission for inquiry into the recent killings to book the culprits.”
He also said, “Our youth is in no way ready to acceptable security forces in every nook and corner of the valley. They don’t want to see forces any more here. Remove forces from all major towns and city immediately,” he said. “Release political prisoners, including the children,” he demanded.
President, Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers' Federation (KTMF), Mohammad Sadiq Baqal while sharing his views said police and CRPF disowned curfew passes and invitation letters issued by the authorities at many places. “We faced lots of hurdles on the way to SKICC,” he lamented. “The innocent killing should be immediately stopped. Kashmir dispute is a 63 years long pending issue and should be addressed through political solution in accordance to the aspiration of Kashmiri people,” he voiced.
President, Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Association (KHARA) Siraj Ahmad told KT that they have formed an umbrella body which includes many other trade bodies in the valley. “We collectively condemn over hundred innocent killings by troopers and demand justices,” he adds.
In an annoyed note he said that they where promised of 30 minutes meting but all of a sudden they winded it in 15 minutes. “We were asked to leave,” he said.
He also termed the meeting as a move to ‘hoodwink the world community’. “They are misleading their own people,” Siraj added.
“History stands as witness that non-resolution of this problem has played havoc with the economy of the state & made it to incur colossal losses. It needs no mention that this state is bestowed with tremendous natural resources and if such resources are properly exploited then the state will be most economically advanced & prosperous one. Take for example the water resources of the State which have been used to the detriment of the State through Indus water Treaty of 1960,” President KCCI said.
In a significant development here the business fraternity in Kashmir valley prefers to talk about ‘gross human rights violation’ over financial losses they have been suffering from past three months of unrest on Monday in a meet with the all-party 39-member team from New Delhi.
Most of the representatives of the commerce, trade, and industrial bodies told Kashmir Times that they are least worried about the business losses suffered by them however, they are concern over hundred killings of people in Kashmir by the police and paramilitary troopers since June this year.
The President, Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Nazir Ahmad Dar told KT that he appraised the all-party team from New Delhi about the killings of innocent Kashmiris and demanded investigation through an impartial agency and guilty ‘security personnel’ be punished.
The KKCI has handed over a memorandum to the all-party team wherein they seek ‘Kashmir problem needs to be solved in all seriousness in its historic perspective. It needs to be emphasized that a symptomatic treatment is simply not the option.’ The memorandum also mentions, “Process leading to de-militarization of state needs to be started at once. Black laws like AFPSA, Disturbed Area Act & PSA need to be revoked at once. The rhetoric of zero degree tolerance of human rights violations need to be translated into a reality on ground.”
The business community has turned down any kind of economic compensation. The President, Federation Chamber of Industry Kashmir (FCIK), Shakeel Qalander who also met the all-party team echoed the similar concerns and while briefing delegation said, “We don’t ask for economic packages and loss compensation. All we want is an end to perpetual spree of killing especially our youth. We demanded constitution of Truth and Reconciliatory Commission for inquiry into the recent killings to book the culprits.”
He also said, “Our youth is in no way ready to acceptable security forces in every nook and corner of the valley. They don’t want to see forces any more here. Remove forces from all major towns and city immediately,” he said. “Release political prisoners, including the children,” he demanded.
President, Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers' Federation (KTMF), Mohammad Sadiq Baqal while sharing his views said police and CRPF disowned curfew passes and invitation letters issued by the authorities at many places. “We faced lots of hurdles on the way to SKICC,” he lamented. “The innocent killing should be immediately stopped. Kashmir dispute is a 63 years long pending issue and should be addressed through political solution in accordance to the aspiration of Kashmiri people,” he voiced.
President, Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Association (KHARA) Siraj Ahmad told KT that they have formed an umbrella body which includes many other trade bodies in the valley. “We collectively condemn over hundred innocent killings by troopers and demand justices,” he adds.
In an annoyed note he said that they where promised of 30 minutes meting but all of a sudden they winded it in 15 minutes. “We were asked to leave,” he said.
He also termed the meeting as a move to ‘hoodwink the world community’. “They are misleading their own people,” Siraj added.
“History stands as witness that non-resolution of this problem has played havoc with the economy of the state & made it to incur colossal losses. It needs no mention that this state is bestowed with tremendous natural resources and if such resources are properly exploited then the state will be most economically advanced & prosperous one. Take for example the water resources of the State which have been used to the detriment of the State through Indus water Treaty of 1960,” President KCCI said.
Food comes free for masses
BEYOND BUSINESS
BILAL HUSSAIN
Persistent protests and curfew might have taken a heavy toll on their income and business, yet the masses from some areas of the Valley on Thursday generously gave away food grains free to the people in hospitals and in some curfew hit areas.
In their endeavor they had equal partners the traders who offered not only edible items but provided free transport services as well. “It is over third week now that our shops are closed but this doesn’t stop us from serving people who need us the most in these though times. We are doing it for free,” said a shop owner, Abdul Qadeer.
Local welfare groups who usually look after affairs limited to their areas were busy collecting food grains and money for distributing to the needy people from other areas. “We are collecting food items within our locality and are planning to send it to those who desperately are in need of it particularly in hospitals and in downtown area,” said a local from HMT area.
This time traders are going beyond business and no more talk about profits, instead natters social responsibility. A trader said, “You make profits everyday. But today it was a moment when one could not think of profits. If others can unite, can’t we stand together?”
Youth from all walks of life too showed their interest in collecting and distribution of relief items here. “I think collectively it is responsibility of all of us to provide food to all our brothers and sisters who have been put under siege. All are helping and contributing, I too am doing my bit,” said a youth from outskirts of Srinagar.
Earlier, President, Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers' Federation (KTMF), Mohammad Sadiq Baqal told Kashmir Times that from past three weeks almost all traders across valley haven’t taken any fresh supplies.
Due to the ongoing restrictions and protests following the recent civilian killings by troopers, markets in the valley remained closed from past few weeks. “Traders haven’t been able to open their shops and couldn’t serve the people here,” said Baqal.
Traders here said that older stocks is still lying with them and is not exhausted. “It is case with one and all traders here particularly from the downtown area,” he added.
The strike has badly affected the imports to the Valley. "On an average over hundreds of trucks on daily basis come to the Valley with vegetables and fruits," said a local transporter, adding that it is now like “a crisis situation for Kashmir.”
Besides a severe shortage of stocked food items like rice, flour, pulses, sugar, and many other commodities residents are having a tough time in procuring daily items like milk, bread, and vegetables. “From past so many days I am looking for baby powder milk for my eight month old infant but none of my attempts could fetch me it,” said a desperate father of a child, Basharat Ahmad.
BILAL HUSSAIN
Persistent protests and curfew might have taken a heavy toll on their income and business, yet the masses from some areas of the Valley on Thursday generously gave away food grains free to the people in hospitals and in some curfew hit areas.
In their endeavor they had equal partners the traders who offered not only edible items but provided free transport services as well. “It is over third week now that our shops are closed but this doesn’t stop us from serving people who need us the most in these though times. We are doing it for free,” said a shop owner, Abdul Qadeer.
Local welfare groups who usually look after affairs limited to their areas were busy collecting food grains and money for distributing to the needy people from other areas. “We are collecting food items within our locality and are planning to send it to those who desperately are in need of it particularly in hospitals and in downtown area,” said a local from HMT area.
This time traders are going beyond business and no more talk about profits, instead natters social responsibility. A trader said, “You make profits everyday. But today it was a moment when one could not think of profits. If others can unite, can’t we stand together?”
Youth from all walks of life too showed their interest in collecting and distribution of relief items here. “I think collectively it is responsibility of all of us to provide food to all our brothers and sisters who have been put under siege. All are helping and contributing, I too am doing my bit,” said a youth from outskirts of Srinagar.
Earlier, President, Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers' Federation (KTMF), Mohammad Sadiq Baqal told Kashmir Times that from past three weeks almost all traders across valley haven’t taken any fresh supplies.
Due to the ongoing restrictions and protests following the recent civilian killings by troopers, markets in the valley remained closed from past few weeks. “Traders haven’t been able to open their shops and couldn’t serve the people here,” said Baqal.
Traders here said that older stocks is still lying with them and is not exhausted. “It is case with one and all traders here particularly from the downtown area,” he added.
The strike has badly affected the imports to the Valley. "On an average over hundreds of trucks on daily basis come to the Valley with vegetables and fruits," said a local transporter, adding that it is now like “a crisis situation for Kashmir.”
Besides a severe shortage of stocked food items like rice, flour, pulses, sugar, and many other commodities residents are having a tough time in procuring daily items like milk, bread, and vegetables. “From past so many days I am looking for baby powder milk for my eight month old infant but none of my attempts could fetch me it,” said a desperate father of a child, Basharat Ahmad.
Essentials shortage hits Kashmir
BILAL HUSSAIN
Defying government claims of sufficient supply of essential items to the valley, locals here say they are facing shortage of critical commodities. Traders too maintain, not to have taken fresh supplies from past few weeks.
President, Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers' Federation (KTMF), Mohammad Sadiq Baqal said that from past three weeks almost all traders across valley haven’t taken any fresh supplies.
Due to the ongoing restrictions and protests following the recent civilian killings by troopers, markets in the valley remained closed from past few weeks. “Traders haven’t been able to open their shops and couldn’t place fresh orders,” said Baqal.
Traders here said that older stocks is still lying with them and is not exhausted. “It is case with one and all traders here particularly from the downtown area,” he added.
Even as the effect on the supplies to the Valley in the initial days of the strike was little, transporters and traders here said the impact there after was severe, and could worsen if the restrictions and protest goes on unabatedly.
The strike could badly affect the imports to the Valley. "On an average over 100 trucks daily come to the Valley with vegetables and fruits," said a local transporter, adding that if the strike continued it would be “a crisis situation for Kashmir.”
Besides a severe shortage of stocked food items like rice, flour, pulses, sugar, and many other commodities residents are having a tough time in procuring daily items like milk, bread, and vegetables. “From past so many days I am looking for baby powder milk for my eight month old infant but none of my attempts could fetch me it,” said a desperate father of a child, Basharat Ahmad.
Many unscrupulous distributors and stockiest, according to some customers, have started dumping the commodities to sell them at high prices.
In normal times thousands of trucks enter the valley through Srinagar-Jammu highway, but since the restrictions and protests have begun the supply has been disrupted.
The disruption in the supply, according to experts here, could add to the inflation and raise the prices of commodities.
The prolonged protests throughout the valley and restriction in downtown in Srinagar could cause major problems as the Kashmir is dependent on the food and other essential imports from outside. "Prices of vegetables have started to rise," said a local, Tahir Yousf Rather.
Vegetable vendors here said that the supply from outside is not reaching them for past few weeks and they are managing the supply locally.
Defying government claims of sufficient supply of essential items to the valley, locals here say they are facing shortage of critical commodities. Traders too maintain, not to have taken fresh supplies from past few weeks.
President, Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers' Federation (KTMF), Mohammad Sadiq Baqal said that from past three weeks almost all traders across valley haven’t taken any fresh supplies.
Due to the ongoing restrictions and protests following the recent civilian killings by troopers, markets in the valley remained closed from past few weeks. “Traders haven’t been able to open their shops and couldn’t place fresh orders,” said Baqal.
Traders here said that older stocks is still lying with them and is not exhausted. “It is case with one and all traders here particularly from the downtown area,” he added.
Even as the effect on the supplies to the Valley in the initial days of the strike was little, transporters and traders here said the impact there after was severe, and could worsen if the restrictions and protest goes on unabatedly.
The strike could badly affect the imports to the Valley. "On an average over 100 trucks daily come to the Valley with vegetables and fruits," said a local transporter, adding that if the strike continued it would be “a crisis situation for Kashmir.”
Besides a severe shortage of stocked food items like rice, flour, pulses, sugar, and many other commodities residents are having a tough time in procuring daily items like milk, bread, and vegetables. “From past so many days I am looking for baby powder milk for my eight month old infant but none of my attempts could fetch me it,” said a desperate father of a child, Basharat Ahmad.
Many unscrupulous distributors and stockiest, according to some customers, have started dumping the commodities to sell them at high prices.
In normal times thousands of trucks enter the valley through Srinagar-Jammu highway, but since the restrictions and protests have begun the supply has been disrupted.
The disruption in the supply, according to experts here, could add to the inflation and raise the prices of commodities.
The prolonged protests throughout the valley and restriction in downtown in Srinagar could cause major problems as the Kashmir is dependent on the food and other essential imports from outside. "Prices of vegetables have started to rise," said a local, Tahir Yousf Rather.
Vegetable vendors here said that the supply from outside is not reaching them for past few weeks and they are managing the supply locally.
Buzz back in Valley bazaars
BILAL HUSSAIN
Srinagar: After nine days complete curfew in the Valley, markets today returned back to life with people in large numbers flocking shops. On the first day of the Ramzan, fasting month for Muslims, people made huge purchase particularly food item.
Most of the shopkeepers in the city told Greater Kashmir that the rush for the entire day was overwhelming. “We remained busy for the entire day as there was huge rush of customers,” said Musataq Ahmad, a shopkeeper in Nowhatta in the Shahr-e-Khaas here. Due to the strike against the enforced economic blockade to Kashmir by some fanatic groups in Jammu followed by nine-day curfew in the Valley imposed by the government to prevent public rallies, the markets in the Valley remained off for more than a week.
The branch offices of various banks operating in the Valley today witnessed a huge customer rush. Throughout the day while the bankers were busy in disbursing the cash, the customers in large numbers could also be seen withdrawing amounts at the ATMs spread across the Valley. Most of the customers throughout the day were seen in long queues waiting for their turn at different ATMs in Srinagar. “I am waiting for about 15 minutes for my turn and I think it is going to take some more minutes,” said Arshad Ahmad at an ATM at MS Mall, here.
Huge rush could also be seen at the shops of vegetable vendors, bakers, and meat shops across the Valley. “It took me half an hour to get a kilogram of mutton from a local meat shop,” said Audil Hussain of Qamarwari.
“The rush was expected as people could not purchase anything, and even the essential commodities, during the curfew period,” said Abdul Majeed, a shopkeeper in Safakadal.
People over here spend huge amounts in the month of Ramzan mostly on edibles items.
Many people could be seen purchasing daily-use items including food articles in large quantities fearing that situation may again take an untoward turn, which could lead to further strikes or curfew. “I bought rice which could suffice for three months to my family,” said a customer. However, the high-end products and services found few takers today. Jewelry, readymade garments, shoes, and other non-essential items were almost negligible.
Almost all the segments of the business witnessed rush. “Many constructions works had come to a halt for want of necessary material. But today those works were resumed and people purchased the goods,” said Javaid Ahmad, a shopkeeper in Bemina. Javaid who sells sanitary fitting items said: “I made good sales during the day.”
KEF strategies to counter economic blockade threats
BILAL HUSSAIN
Srinagar: Kashmir Economic Front, an amalgam of business chamber, industrialists and traders, is working on short and long term plans to make valley’s economy self reliant. In the wake of the economic blockade of Kashmir, Valley’s traders’ organizations decided to form a joint coordination committee under the banner of Kashmir Economic Front (KEF). The front will take stock of emerging economic situation in the Valley and will soon be out with strategies for trade, commerce and industry. President Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr Mubeen Shah told Greater Kashmir that the front is currently working on formation of strategies so as to make Kashmir self-sustain on every façade. Jammu and Kashmir is a consumer state and Valley is dependent on imported goods both food and non-food items. “The front would look at all economic sectors where the Valley is dependent on outside states for imports and in accordance would formulate strategy to reduce it,” said Dr Shah. “We had earlier meeting with apex business bodies wherein we unanimously decided for formulation of the lasting strategies for strengthen our economic teethes,” he said. The Front would look at all aspects of the Valley economy like agriculture, horticulture, secondary sectors and tertiary sectors as well, said Dr Shah. President Federation Chamber of Industries Kashmir, Shakeel Qalander, said the economic blockade to the Valley by hooligans from Jammu has forced industrialists to seek for fiscal sovereignty. “FCIK seeks clarification from the Jammu Chamber and industrial associations over the call given by VHP leader Dinesh Bharati to stop supplies to the Valley as well as boycott Kashmiri goods,” said Qalander. Meanwhile, he said the Front shall come out with future course of action very soon. The Valley economists too are part of the Front. Noted economist and Dean, Social Sciences Kashmir University, Prof Nissar Ali favours mobilizing internal resource within the state. “J&K has enough potential to mobilize internal resources and make the state economical independent.” The Front would workout the modalities for financial autonomy of the Valley. “Our state has an 80 per cent financial dependency on the aid and subsidies from New Delhi. The state is miserably trapped in debt, need of the hour is to be financially self-sufficient,” he said. “We should work hard to balance the import-export basket of the Valley.” “We have so many productive sectors in the Valley like handicrafts, floriculture, horticulture, and Hydel power and likes.” “If we will take the case of Hydel power, this sector has enormous potential which can generate huge amount of revenue for the Valley,” he said. “Outside companies have a huge market base over here these companies should have their C & F agencies in the Valley,” said a trader. KEF comprises Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Federation Chamber of Industries Kashmir (FCIK), Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Association (KHARA), Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers’ Federation (KTMF), Houseboat Owners’ Association (HOA), Kashmir Transporters’ Federation (KTF) and Kashmir Flourmills Association (KFA).
Srinagar: Kashmir Economic Front, an amalgam of business chamber, industrialists and traders, is working on short and long term plans to make valley’s economy self reliant. In the wake of the economic blockade of Kashmir, Valley’s traders’ organizations decided to form a joint coordination committee under the banner of Kashmir Economic Front (KEF). The front will take stock of emerging economic situation in the Valley and will soon be out with strategies for trade, commerce and industry. President Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr Mubeen Shah told Greater Kashmir that the front is currently working on formation of strategies so as to make Kashmir self-sustain on every façade. Jammu and Kashmir is a consumer state and Valley is dependent on imported goods both food and non-food items. “The front would look at all economic sectors where the Valley is dependent on outside states for imports and in accordance would formulate strategy to reduce it,” said Dr Shah. “We had earlier meeting with apex business bodies wherein we unanimously decided for formulation of the lasting strategies for strengthen our economic teethes,” he said. The Front would look at all aspects of the Valley economy like agriculture, horticulture, secondary sectors and tertiary sectors as well, said Dr Shah. President Federation Chamber of Industries Kashmir, Shakeel Qalander, said the economic blockade to the Valley by hooligans from Jammu has forced industrialists to seek for fiscal sovereignty. “FCIK seeks clarification from the Jammu Chamber and industrial associations over the call given by VHP leader Dinesh Bharati to stop supplies to the Valley as well as boycott Kashmiri goods,” said Qalander. Meanwhile, he said the Front shall come out with future course of action very soon. The Valley economists too are part of the Front. Noted economist and Dean, Social Sciences Kashmir University, Prof Nissar Ali favours mobilizing internal resource within the state. “J&K has enough potential to mobilize internal resources and make the state economical independent.” The Front would workout the modalities for financial autonomy of the Valley. “Our state has an 80 per cent financial dependency on the aid and subsidies from New Delhi. The state is miserably trapped in debt, need of the hour is to be financially self-sufficient,” he said. “We should work hard to balance the import-export basket of the Valley.” “We have so many productive sectors in the Valley like handicrafts, floriculture, horticulture, and Hydel power and likes.” “If we will take the case of Hydel power, this sector has enormous potential which can generate huge amount of revenue for the Valley,” he said. “Outside companies have a huge market base over here these companies should have their C & F agencies in the Valley,” said a trader. KEF comprises Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Federation Chamber of Industries Kashmir (FCIK), Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Association (KHARA), Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers’ Federation (KTMF), Houseboat Owners’ Association (HOA), Kashmir Transporters’ Federation (KTF) and Kashmir Flourmills Association (KFA).
Freight for Valley fruit soars 140 pc
Buyers in Delhi make profit of growers' misery
BILAL HUSSAIN
Srinagar: In the wake of forced economic blockade on Kashmir the freight for fruit from Valley to Delhi has gone 140 per cent up from Rs 25/box some months ago to Rs 60/box, even as the rates for apple have come down at Azadpur Mandi, Delhi. Former president, New Kashmir Fruit Association, Imtiyaz Ahmad, confirmed to Greater Kashmir that the freight has gone up. "Drivers demand high transportation cost as they are risking their lives," he said. He said, "Due to lesser number of vehicles taking fruit from Kashmir to outside the fruit growers/dealers have suffered enormous losses with most of the fruit in the Valley getting rotten." Imtiyaz said: "At present about 25 fruit laden trucks move from Valley to outside daily which is far less than the past year." He said last year during the same period over 150 trucks laden with apples would go to different states daily from Kashmir. "There is no way out for us except to pay for higher transportation costs," said a grower, Tariq Ahmad. President New Kashmir Fruit Association, Bashir Ahmad Bashir said that almost entire pear produce in the Valley has gone waste. Worried about the falling rates, he said, "Merchants at Azadpur Mandi are exploiting the traders from Valley by giving them throwaway price for their produce."
He said at present the Kesri apple variety per box is sold at Rs 100 while as during the same period last year it was sold at Rs 200 per box. "It is a matter of grave concern for the growers and fruit traders of the Valley," Bashir adds. "Valley apple growers are not plucking fruit from trees so as to prevent it from getting rotten in the boxes for want of transpiration," he said.
Azadi comes first for Kashmiri youth
BILAL HUSSAIN
Srinagar: Nowadays Kashmiri youths seem no more interested in cricket, career and cinema, and instead in their daily discourse they discuss present situation, protests, rallies, news reports on Kashmir, et al. With the massive youth involvement in the recent rallies Muzaffarabad Chalo, Pampore Chalo, Eidgah Chalo – observers here are of the opinion that “the priorities for the youth have changed suddenly.” In almost all the rallies it was seen that the youths in different areas of the city had formed voluntary groups to provide refreshments to the protestors. While many youth take direct part in the protests, others ensure the arrangements like making of banners and flags, providing of refreshment to the marchers, etc. Surprisingly, the BBC website in a report titled “Changing Priorities” on June 26 while quoting youngsters from the Valley said they (youth) were “no more interested” in the freedom struggle. Quoting few youth from the Kashmir University, the report said: ‘Today, the word Azadi is still part of some people’s lexicon, but with many young Kashmiris it comes out only after some probing.’ It said: “The number two topic of discussion (among the youth) is education, career, employment opportunities. Then we (youth) share our concern for the environment. The fight for Kashmir’s freedom or where the separatist movement is headed is last on the list.” Observers here say that it took quite little time for the youth to change their priorities. “Azaadi sentiment was always there in the minds of the youth, but certainly the priorities were different. But now it seems their first priority has become the future of Kashmir,” said Muhammad Anwar of Shehar-e-Khaas. “All of a sudden winds seems to have taken a 180 degree turn and youth have come in the centre stage,” said Nazia, political science student in a college. Interestingly, the youth in many areas take a great deal of interest in creating novel slogans for demonstrations and making flags. “Till date I have made hundreds of green flags,” said Mehraj Wani, who has recently completed his management in financial studies. School going children too are enthusiastically taking part in the demonstrations. “Don’t undermine us, we are as much part of the demonstrations as are adults,” said Owais Nazir a 12th standard student. Surprisingly, young girls too are becoming the part of the protests in many areas. “We are no way lower than the boys. We too want contribute to Kashmir cause,” said Hina, a Kashmir University student. Another college going girl, Sabha said she prayed to Almighty Allah for the success of Kashmiri nation.
'Assocham loss estimates on JK industry off beam'
BILAL HUSSAIN
Srinagar: While terming the Assocham estimates about loss in J&K on account of 'adverse impact on the economic activity over past some weeks' as 'conservative', the traders organizations in Kashmir say the actual loss Kashmir alone faced is over Rs 2500 crore. The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham) had said that the adverse impact on the economic activity in J&K over past some weeks had cost a whopping Rs 1,500 crore to the state industry. The worst hit areas identified by the highest body of the Chambers of Commerce of India included tourism, handicrafts and fruits. The apex industrial chamber in the Valley, the Federation Chamber of Industries Kashmir (FCIK), however, while terming the Assocham figures conservative maintained that the cumulative losses to various sectors in Kashmir were over Rs 2500 crore. President, FCIK, Shakeel Qalander told Greater Kashmir that the fruit industry had suffered a loss of over Rs 400 crore. According to him the production of fruit in this season was over 20 per cent of the annual total produce in the Valley. "The handicraft industry including carpets would have suffered a loss of over Rs 300 crore," he said. "In the months of August and September we have peak time for the fruit industry," former President Kashmir Fruit Growers Association, Imtiyaz Ahmad said, adding that the entire August has been disturbed by the economic blockade imposed by fanatic parties in Jammu. Experts said the tourism which was witnessing boom in Kashmir was shattered by the economic blockade. Director, Shiraz Travels, Nazir A Bakshi said: "In the first half of this year we had around 4 lakh tourists in the Valley. However, following the recent disturbances the entire tourism boom had died down." Bakshi pegged the losses to tourism industry in Kashmir somewhere between Rs 600 cr to Rs 700 cr in the two month of unrest. The losses in the agriculture sector would be around Rs 100 crore, an agri-economist said. Likewise the losses to service sector excluding the tourism industry would be over Rs 100 crores, said a software engineer Audil Hussain. Assocham has said the exports (from J&K) had fallen by at least 30 percent due to the agitation, which had brought the movement of goods, particularly fruits, to a halt. "If the agitation goes on, the economy of the state will suffer major jolt as people who had lined up over Rs 5000 crore worth of investment for fiscal 2008-09 will depart to the neighboring states of Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh", the chamber said.
Srinagar: While terming the Assocham estimates about loss in J&K on account of 'adverse impact on the economic activity over past some weeks' as 'conservative', the traders organizations in Kashmir say the actual loss Kashmir alone faced is over Rs 2500 crore. The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham) had said that the adverse impact on the economic activity in J&K over past some weeks had cost a whopping Rs 1,500 crore to the state industry. The worst hit areas identified by the highest body of the Chambers of Commerce of India included tourism, handicrafts and fruits. The apex industrial chamber in the Valley, the Federation Chamber of Industries Kashmir (FCIK), however, while terming the Assocham figures conservative maintained that the cumulative losses to various sectors in Kashmir were over Rs 2500 crore. President, FCIK, Shakeel Qalander told Greater Kashmir that the fruit industry had suffered a loss of over Rs 400 crore. According to him the production of fruit in this season was over 20 per cent of the annual total produce in the Valley. "The handicraft industry including carpets would have suffered a loss of over Rs 300 crore," he said. "In the months of August and September we have peak time for the fruit industry," former President Kashmir Fruit Growers Association, Imtiyaz Ahmad said, adding that the entire August has been disturbed by the economic blockade imposed by fanatic parties in Jammu. Experts said the tourism which was witnessing boom in Kashmir was shattered by the economic blockade. Director, Shiraz Travels, Nazir A Bakshi said: "In the first half of this year we had around 4 lakh tourists in the Valley. However, following the recent disturbances the entire tourism boom had died down." Bakshi pegged the losses to tourism industry in Kashmir somewhere between Rs 600 cr to Rs 700 cr in the two month of unrest. The losses in the agriculture sector would be around Rs 100 crore, an agri-economist said. Likewise the losses to service sector excluding the tourism industry would be over Rs 100 crores, said a software engineer Audil Hussain. Assocham has said the exports (from J&K) had fallen by at least 30 percent due to the agitation, which had brought the movement of goods, particularly fruits, to a halt. "If the agitation goes on, the economy of the state will suffer major jolt as people who had lined up over Rs 5000 crore worth of investment for fiscal 2008-09 will depart to the neighboring states of Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh", the chamber said.
Economists for formation of Economic Forum
Self-reliance answer to blockade
BILAL HUSSAIN
Srinagar: The economic blockade to Kashmir by fanatics in Jammu has forced people to think on alternative ways to fight it and in this regard the economists on Sunday demanded setting up of Economic Forum to work for Valley's economic self-reliance.
The Forum would look at the ways and means for achieving sustainable sovereign economic growth for the Valley.
Many valley-based economist told Greater Kashmir that Kashmir could be financially self-sufficient provided the people would support and work on proper planned strategy. "The economic blockade by hooligans has strained economists to look for self-sufficient economy for the Valley," said an economist.
Noted economist and dean, Social Science Kashmir University, Prof Nissar Ali is for mobilizing internal resource within the state. "J&K has enough potential to mobilize internal resources and make the state economical independent."
The current state budget has a magnitude of over Rs 18,500 crore out of which plan expenditure is about Rs 5500 crore and Rs 13000 crore is non-plan expenditure.
The state is able to manage Rs 3500 crore from its own kitty, he said.
"The figures and facts speak itself of how hard Kashmiri's would have to work to achieve financial autonomy," said Prof Nissar.
There should be an Economic Forum, which would workout the modalities for financial autonomy of the Valley, he added.
"Our state has an 80 per cent financial dependency on the aid and subsidies from the centre. The state is miserably trapped in debt, need of the hour is to be financially self-sufficient," he said, "We should work hard to balance the import-export basket of the Valley."
"We have so many productive sectors in the Valley like handicrafts, floriculture, horticulture, and Hydel power and likes."
"If we will take the case of Hydel power, this sector has enormous potential which can generate huge amount of revenue for the Valley," he said.
According to him J&K's SGDP (State Gross Domestic Product) is over Rs 24,000 crore and out of it Rs 14,000 crore is contributed from the Valley only.
Experts here believe that need of the hour is to strengthen the local economy by means of consuming local goods and all the traditional routes to the Valley should be thrown open for the purpose of trade. "The local goods and services should be preferred over imported products," they say.
Most of the political economists said, "We must try utmost to manufacture most items locally."
"J&K is a consumer state as most of consumable items are imported from other states. Head, Economics Department, Kashmir University," said Prof G M Bhat.
He said that for achieving economic sovereignty, the Valley has to transform its present status of consumer to a producer state. "We need to produce more and more so as to reduce outside dependence," he said.
"New Delhi over decades has yearned for the economic dependence of the Valley by providing sweet doles to the successive state governments," he adds.
BILAL HUSSAIN
Srinagar: The economic blockade to Kashmir by fanatics in Jammu has forced people to think on alternative ways to fight it and in this regard the economists on Sunday demanded setting up of Economic Forum to work for Valley's economic self-reliance.
The Forum would look at the ways and means for achieving sustainable sovereign economic growth for the Valley.
Many valley-based economist told Greater Kashmir that Kashmir could be financially self-sufficient provided the people would support and work on proper planned strategy. "The economic blockade by hooligans has strained economists to look for self-sufficient economy for the Valley," said an economist.
Noted economist and dean, Social Science Kashmir University, Prof Nissar Ali is for mobilizing internal resource within the state. "J&K has enough potential to mobilize internal resources and make the state economical independent."
The current state budget has a magnitude of over Rs 18,500 crore out of which plan expenditure is about Rs 5500 crore and Rs 13000 crore is non-plan expenditure.
The state is able to manage Rs 3500 crore from its own kitty, he said.
"The figures and facts speak itself of how hard Kashmiri's would have to work to achieve financial autonomy," said Prof Nissar.
There should be an Economic Forum, which would workout the modalities for financial autonomy of the Valley, he added.
"Our state has an 80 per cent financial dependency on the aid and subsidies from the centre. The state is miserably trapped in debt, need of the hour is to be financially self-sufficient," he said, "We should work hard to balance the import-export basket of the Valley."
"We have so many productive sectors in the Valley like handicrafts, floriculture, horticulture, and Hydel power and likes."
"If we will take the case of Hydel power, this sector has enormous potential which can generate huge amount of revenue for the Valley," he said.
According to him J&K's SGDP (State Gross Domestic Product) is over Rs 24,000 crore and out of it Rs 14,000 crore is contributed from the Valley only.
Experts here believe that need of the hour is to strengthen the local economy by means of consuming local goods and all the traditional routes to the Valley should be thrown open for the purpose of trade. "The local goods and services should be preferred over imported products," they say.
Most of the political economists said, "We must try utmost to manufacture most items locally."
"J&K is a consumer state as most of consumable items are imported from other states. Head, Economics Department, Kashmir University," said Prof G M Bhat.
He said that for achieving economic sovereignty, the Valley has to transform its present status of consumer to a producer state. "We need to produce more and more so as to reduce outside dependence," he said.
"New Delhi over decades has yearned for the economic dependence of the Valley by providing sweet doles to the successive state governments," he adds.
Beyond business
Fabric comes free for flags
BILAL HUSSAIN
Srinagar: Persistent strikes and curfew might have taken a heavy toll on their business, yet the cloth merchants of the Valley on Saturday generously gave away thousands of meters of black and green fabric absolutely free to the people for flags, banners and bands. In their endeavor they had equal partners the tailors who offered their free service. To pay homage to the slain pro-freedom leader Sheikh Abdul Aziz, who was killed in police firing on August 11, lakhs of people today marched to Pampore. All the vehicles leading to the saffron town had green and black flags atop. Thousands of meters of fabric were used for making flags, banners, and bands. A Srinagar-based textile dealer said: “Although I was offered the price for the cloth I gave to the marchers, I did not accept it, for it was our collective cause.” Many demonstrators told Greater Kashmir that the drapers as well as the tailors did not charge for the cloth and stitching. “I stitched hundreds of flag throughout the night,” said a tailor. He said even as he was offered money by the people, “I did not accept.” A trader from Shahr-e-Khaas said: “You make profits everyday. But today it was a moment when one could not think of profits. If others can unite to block our roads, can’t we stand together to defeat their motives.” Interestingly, the painters too provided their services free. “We have two painters in our locality and they were very much willing to write banners without charging anything,” said a student protestor from Islamabad.
Srinagar: Persistent strikes and curfew might have taken a heavy toll on their business, yet the cloth merchants of the Valley on Saturday generously gave away thousands of meters of black and green fabric absolutely free to the people for flags, banners and bands. In their endeavor they had equal partners the tailors who offered their free service. To pay homage to the slain pro-freedom leader Sheikh Abdul Aziz, who was killed in police firing on August 11, lakhs of people today marched to Pampore. All the vehicles leading to the saffron town had green and black flags atop. Thousands of meters of fabric were used for making flags, banners, and bands. A Srinagar-based textile dealer said: “Although I was offered the price for the cloth I gave to the marchers, I did not accept it, for it was our collective cause.” Many demonstrators told Greater Kashmir that the drapers as well as the tailors did not charge for the cloth and stitching. “I stitched hundreds of flag throughout the night,” said a tailor. He said even as he was offered money by the people, “I did not accept.” A trader from Shahr-e-Khaas said: “You make profits everyday. But today it was a moment when one could not think of profits. If others can unite to block our roads, can’t we stand together to defeat their motives.” Interestingly, the painters too provided their services free. “We have two painters in our locality and they were very much willing to write banners without charging anything,” said a student protestor from Islamabad.
MUZAFFARBAD CHALO
BILAL HUSSAIN
FRUIT TRUCKS READY TO MARCH
"SHOULD AUTHORITIES IMPOSE CURFEW, WE'LL DEFY IT"
Srinagar: A day before the joint call to march towards Muzaffarbad on Monday, fruit growers busily loaded their trucks at Parimpora Mandi on Sunday.
Horticulture, one of the major contributing sectors to the state's gross domestic product (GDP), has badly been affected by the enforced economic blockade forcing the fruit growers and traders to look for the Muzaffarabad road option. Similar preparations are under way in other district fruit Madis.
Earlier, the traders, business chambers, industrialists, political and religious organizations of Kahsmir let by the two jointly given a call for "Muzaffarabad Chalo" to counter the blockade.
"Over 100 fruit laden trucks from Srinagar Mandi are ready and more than 50,000 people would join the convoy," president New Kashmir Fruit Association, Bashir Ahmad Bashir told Greater Kashmir on Sunday, "the fruit growers and the traders' fraternity are ready to go on a protest march on the Jhelum Valley Road on Monday."
He said that they have made preparations for all possible threat, even if the government imposed curfew.
He said the trucks from other districts would reach the Parimpora Mandi by 11 am. "We'll meet the fruit trucks from Sopur and Kupwara at Sangrama, he said.
Earlier, pro-freedom leaders, Syed Ali Shah Geelani on Saturday had said that fruit-laden trucks from all corners of the Valley would begin their march towards Muzaffarabad on August 11.
The fruit industry of Kashmir estimated a over Rs. 2500 crore annually is in a serious jeopardy following the enforced economic blockade. "There's no alternative other than Jhelum Valley Road," former President Kashmir Fruit Growers Association, Imtiyaz Ahmad said.
President Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Dr. Mubeen Shah, said, "We'll defy all kinds of restrictions."
"It is our right to seek markets for our produce and nobody should have any objection for it," he said.
FRUIT TRUCKS READY TO MARCH
"SHOULD AUTHORITIES IMPOSE CURFEW, WE'LL DEFY IT"
Srinagar: A day before the joint call to march towards Muzaffarbad on Monday, fruit growers busily loaded their trucks at Parimpora Mandi on Sunday.
Horticulture, one of the major contributing sectors to the state's gross domestic product (GDP), has badly been affected by the enforced economic blockade forcing the fruit growers and traders to look for the Muzaffarabad road option. Similar preparations are under way in other district fruit Madis.
Earlier, the traders, business chambers, industrialists, political and religious organizations of Kahsmir let by the two jointly given a call for "Muzaffarabad Chalo" to counter the blockade.
"Over 100 fruit laden trucks from Srinagar Mandi are ready and more than 50,000 people would join the convoy," president New Kashmir Fruit Association, Bashir Ahmad Bashir told Greater Kashmir on Sunday, "the fruit growers and the traders' fraternity are ready to go on a protest march on the Jhelum Valley Road on Monday."
He said that they have made preparations for all possible threat, even if the government imposed curfew.
He said the trucks from other districts would reach the Parimpora Mandi by 11 am. "We'll meet the fruit trucks from Sopur and Kupwara at Sangrama, he said.
Earlier, pro-freedom leaders, Syed Ali Shah Geelani on Saturday had said that fruit-laden trucks from all corners of the Valley would begin their march towards Muzaffarabad on August 11.
The fruit industry of Kashmir estimated a over Rs. 2500 crore annually is in a serious jeopardy following the enforced economic blockade. "There's no alternative other than Jhelum Valley Road," former President Kashmir Fruit Growers Association, Imtiyaz Ahmad said.
President Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Dr. Mubeen Shah, said, "We'll defy all kinds of restrictions."
"It is our right to seek markets for our produce and nobody should have any objection for it," he said.
Say NO to import items, encourage apple sale locally: traders
'March towards Muzaffarabad on Monday'
BILAL HUSSAIN
BILAL HUSSAIN
Srinagar: Consensus seems to be building among the local traders in Kashmir on banning imported food items from other states. Traders and businessmen have jointly called for vetoing brought in items and encourage consumption of apple and other ingdenious food items locally.
The Srinagar-Jammu highway blockade (economic blockade) has affected the fruit industry in the Valley. The blockade has strained the growers, fruit traders, businesspersons and others to consider other viable solutions to sustain the fruit industry of the state.
Experts believe that the fruit industry in the Valley is a business of over Rs 2500 crore annually.
Former President Kashmir Fruit Growers Association, Imtiyaz Ahmad told Greater Kashmir that the blockade has forced traders to think of alternate solutions to this grave problem.
"Locals should consume more apples and other indigenous fruits grown in the Valley. This would ensure the market for the fruits locally and would minimize the dependence of fruit industry outside the state," said Imtiyaz.
Former President Kashmir Valley Apple Growers and Dealers Association, Ghulam Mustafa said, "It is high time to open all possible routes connecting Valley to outside world."
Chairman, Kashmir Traders Federation Jan Muhammad Koul said the Valley imports food items worth over
Rs 3000 annually. "We must focus on native produce and should consume them in bulk," he adds.
Most of the people in the Valley were of the opinion that the public should use apples instead of chips, and soft drinks in the marriages, get-togethers and other functions and parties. Consumption of apples locally apart strengthen local economy would improve public health believe medical doctors. "An apple a day keeps doctor away, which is true and we must do that in our lives," said Manzoor Ahmad, a resident of Budgam.
The apple from valley besides being supplied to all parts of India is also exported to countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, and Srilanka. This year fruit growers in Kashmir were expecting more turnovers but the highway blockade has badly affected them economically. "Fruits have shorter life span. We fear 90 percent of fruit in trucks would be rotten by now amounting to huge losses," said a fruit grower.
In response to the economic blockade an emergency meeting of Valley industrialists under the chairmanship of G M Bhat, President Industrial Entrepreneurs Association, which was held Saturday in the industrial estate Zukara to discuss the effects of the said blockade on the industry and people of Kashmir.
"It was resolved that we would completely boycott the Jammu based products," Bhat adds.
Recently the business community of Kashmir Valley has jointly formed a co-ordination committee, Kashmir Economic Front, to look into the economic aspects of the valley arising out of the economic blockade. Representatives of Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant association, Kashmir traders and manufacturers federation, Houseboat owners association, Kashmir transporters federation, Kashmir flour mills association, and many other have jointly formed the front. On Saturday the front has decided to march towards Muzaffarabad on Monday to export the local produce.
"In view of the shortage of drugs, essential commodities and mounting losses to the business community in general and apple growers in particular, we demand that government should think of alternative arrangements of transportation of goods through Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road," said president KCCI, Dr Mubeen shah.
"The chamber also demands that fruit growers in particular and people associated with trade, commerce and industry in general be compensated by the government on account of losses they have suffered due to blockade of the Jammu-Srinagar highway," he said.
The President, Federation Chamber of Industries Kashmir, Shakeel Qalander, has expressed grave concern over the meaningful silence of Jammu Chamber of Commerce and other Jammu based trade and industrial bodies who have been mute spectators to harsh treatment meted out by the hooligans of Jammu on Kashmiri drivers en-route highway.
The Srinagar-Jammu highway blockade (economic blockade) has affected the fruit industry in the Valley. The blockade has strained the growers, fruit traders, businesspersons and others to consider other viable solutions to sustain the fruit industry of the state.
Experts believe that the fruit industry in the Valley is a business of over Rs 2500 crore annually.
Former President Kashmir Fruit Growers Association, Imtiyaz Ahmad told Greater Kashmir that the blockade has forced traders to think of alternate solutions to this grave problem.
"Locals should consume more apples and other indigenous fruits grown in the Valley. This would ensure the market for the fruits locally and would minimize the dependence of fruit industry outside the state," said Imtiyaz.
Former President Kashmir Valley Apple Growers and Dealers Association, Ghulam Mustafa said, "It is high time to open all possible routes connecting Valley to outside world."
Chairman, Kashmir Traders Federation Jan Muhammad Koul said the Valley imports food items worth over
Rs 3000 annually. "We must focus on native produce and should consume them in bulk," he adds.
Most of the people in the Valley were of the opinion that the public should use apples instead of chips, and soft drinks in the marriages, get-togethers and other functions and parties. Consumption of apples locally apart strengthen local economy would improve public health believe medical doctors. "An apple a day keeps doctor away, which is true and we must do that in our lives," said Manzoor Ahmad, a resident of Budgam.
The apple from valley besides being supplied to all parts of India is also exported to countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, and Srilanka. This year fruit growers in Kashmir were expecting more turnovers but the highway blockade has badly affected them economically. "Fruits have shorter life span. We fear 90 percent of fruit in trucks would be rotten by now amounting to huge losses," said a fruit grower.
In response to the economic blockade an emergency meeting of Valley industrialists under the chairmanship of G M Bhat, President Industrial Entrepreneurs Association, which was held Saturday in the industrial estate Zukara to discuss the effects of the said blockade on the industry and people of Kashmir.
"It was resolved that we would completely boycott the Jammu based products," Bhat adds.
Recently the business community of Kashmir Valley has jointly formed a co-ordination committee, Kashmir Economic Front, to look into the economic aspects of the valley arising out of the economic blockade. Representatives of Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant association, Kashmir traders and manufacturers federation, Houseboat owners association, Kashmir transporters federation, Kashmir flour mills association, and many other have jointly formed the front. On Saturday the front has decided to march towards Muzaffarabad on Monday to export the local produce.
"In view of the shortage of drugs, essential commodities and mounting losses to the business community in general and apple growers in particular, we demand that government should think of alternative arrangements of transportation of goods through Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road," said president KCCI, Dr Mubeen shah.
"The chamber also demands that fruit growers in particular and people associated with trade, commerce and industry in general be compensated by the government on account of losses they have suffered due to blockade of the Jammu-Srinagar highway," he said.
The President, Federation Chamber of Industries Kashmir, Shakeel Qalander, has expressed grave concern over the meaningful silence of Jammu Chamber of Commerce and other Jammu based trade and industrial bodies who have been mute spectators to harsh treatment meted out by the hooligans of Jammu on Kashmiri drivers en-route highway.
We won't leave an inch of our land: Traders
We won't leave an inch of our land: Traders
BILAL HUSSAIN
Srinagar : Chairman, Kashmir Traders Federation, Jan Muhammad Koul today said the government order to transfer the land to SASB was actually a plan by New Delhi which wanted to take away land from "us on the pattern of Israel." "We won't leave an inch of our land," he said. The government should take immediate steps to revoke the order before it is too late, he added. To mention the KCCI and FCIK had earlier demanded that state tourism department should be entrusted with the job of managing yatra as was being done by them in the past with prerogative to decide upon the intake of yatris based upon the capacity of facilities created by them. For the past three days the Valley is protesting the land transfer to the SASB. This has caused immense losses to the merchandise business in general and tourism trade in particular. The traders hold the former governor S K Sinha and state government responsible for creating the controversy by transferring land to the SASB. The transfer order has evoked widespread and intense protests in the Valley. "The stiff resistance by the masses and unmatched protests show the wider disconnect between the state and the people," said a trader. The yatra, once an example of unity between Muslims and Hindus has been turned into a communal discord, he added.
BILAL HUSSAIN
Srinagar : Chairman, Kashmir Traders Federation, Jan Muhammad Koul today said the government order to transfer the land to SASB was actually a plan by New Delhi which wanted to take away land from "us on the pattern of Israel." "We won't leave an inch of our land," he said. The government should take immediate steps to revoke the order before it is too late, he added. To mention the KCCI and FCIK had earlier demanded that state tourism department should be entrusted with the job of managing yatra as was being done by them in the past with prerogative to decide upon the intake of yatris based upon the capacity of facilities created by them. For the past three days the Valley is protesting the land transfer to the SASB. This has caused immense losses to the merchandise business in general and tourism trade in particular. The traders hold the former governor S K Sinha and state government responsible for creating the controversy by transferring land to the SASB. The transfer order has evoked widespread and intense protests in the Valley. "The stiff resistance by the masses and unmatched protests show the wider disconnect between the state and the people," said a trader. The yatra, once an example of unity between Muslims and Hindus has been turned into a communal discord, he added.
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