Khalid Jehangir

Once upon a time, the youth of Kashmir had only one aim in life  -- to secure a government job. Today, the perception has changed. Youth are looking towards entrepreneurship as an option, proudly creating and sharing their success stories.

The concept of government jobs symbolising stability, respect, and success has changed. Youth are out to chase their dreams in their own way.

Until 2019, most Kashmiri families wanted their children to enter government service. It was not merely an aspiration. It was a deeply ingrained social norm. Securing a job in the government sector meant a lifetime of security, an assured income, and a sense of prestige.

However, Kashmir’s generation next has its own plans. It wants to live its life in its own way. The youth seem no more interested in taking the most common advice, i.e., to “prepare for a government job” to live a tension-free life.  

Now, the youth are exploring opportunities in the private sector and are no longer viewing entrepreneurship as a risky and uncertain option.

The transformation began soon after the abrogation of Article 370 as the government initiated a series of reforms to attract private investments and create a conducive environment for business. During the past six years, Kashmir has witnessed record investments. The big corporate houses have set their offices and ventures in Kashmir, throwing open a plethora of opportunities for the youth.

Asif Bhat of South Kashmiri returned from the Gulf to grow veggies

The big business houses have stepped into healthcare, education, information technology and tourism sectors. They are expanding their footprint across the Union Territory. Business parks, IT towers, logistics hubs, and industrial estates are coming up across all 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Private players are bringing with them not only capital but also modern work culture and employment opportunities for the natives.

Besides joining the private sector, youth are out to prove their mettle by setting up their own ventures.  Easy access to digital technology, government schemes like Start-Up India and Mission Youth, and easier business registration processes have led to youngsters, including boys and girls, venturing into startups across diverse sectors. From e-commerce and handicrafts to agri-tech, tourism, and renewable energy, the entrepreneurial spirit is thriving.

Kashmir’s new generation has also been at the forefront to explore the Valley’s traditional strengths—like horticulture, handicrafts, and hospitality—with modern business models.

Bazilla from Srinagar sells homemade chocolates online

Emergence of the indigenous brands has changed the trend, youngsters are focusing from Wazwan—Kashmir’s traditional cuisine—to manufacturing of handmade carpets to carve a niche for themselves. Instead of being job seekers, the youth of Kashmir are fast turning into employment providers.

A few years ago, young people in Kashmir had limited options: either wait endlessly for government recruitment or migrate outside the region for work. Today, they are in a position to choose between multiple career paths—and even negotiate their worth.

Post 2019, the youth-centric initiatives, such as the New Industrial Policy, Mission Youth, and J&K Start-Up Policy have encouraged entrepreneurship and skill development.

The youngsters just need to have an idea. They don’t have to worry about who will provide them with the finances to give shape to their ideas. During the past few years, financial institutions have become more accessible, with credit facilities being extended to small and medium enterprises.

The government’s emphasis on ease of doing business, coupled with improved law and order and better connectivity, has created confidence among investors and youth alike.

Altaf Ahmed Bhat of Kupwara is a leading organi honey producer of Kashmir

This shift also reflects a growing optimism and sense of normalcy. The youth of Kashmir are no longer willing to be defined by limitations. They see themselves as contributors to Bharat’s economic growth story.

The youth of Kashmir are working hard to make Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mission of turning ‘Bharat Viksit’ by 2047.

They are competing with the youth of the other regions and have proven their worth by securing top positions in different fields. They have set examples and have become an inspiration for others.     

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In today’s Kashmir, youth are confident about their abilities and are willing to take chances. Their dreams are big, and they are out to achieve their goals. The government jobs are still there, but many youths have their own perspective towards life.  They no longer wait for opportunities—they create them. And they are scripting a new chapter of progress and hope for the entire Jammu and Kashmir.

The writer is an author and executive member of the International Centre for Peace Studies ((ICPS).