ew Delhi, Feb 12 (KINS): In a luncheon interaction with a group of Jammu and Kashmir youth visiting Delhi as part of the Central Government’s Youth Exchange Programme, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the abundant opportunities available for young entrepreneurs, urging them to take full advantage of government initiatives to enhance their financial and professional prospects.
Dr. Jitendra Singh, who serves as the Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and several other key departments, highlighted various Central Government schemes designed to empower youth through skills development, entrepreneurship, and livelihood support. The Minister engaged in a detailed conversation with the 125 students, explaining the benefits of programs like StartUp India, PM Vishwakarma Yojana, and PM Mudra Yojana, which offer training, modern tools, and financial support for artisans, traditional craftsmen, and aspiring entrepreneurs.
Notably, Dr. Singh encouraged the youth to explore opportunities in Kashmir’s rich heritage industries, including Pashmina weaving and wood carving, stressing how these sectors can provide sustainable livelihoods while preserving cultural heritage. He further discussed how the schemes provide financial incentives, skill training, and employment opportunities, empowering individuals to secure long-term economic stability.
One of the major highlights of the interaction was Dr. Singh’s focus on the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, a scheme that facilitates collateral-free loans up to ₹20 lakh for aspiring entrepreneurs. He urged the students to take advantage of this financial support to overcome common barriers to starting businesses.
Additionally, Dr. Singh spoke about the Svamitva scheme, which offers land ownership rights, enabling individuals to resolve property disputes and gain financial backing for business ventures. He encouraged students to raise awareness about such programs in their communities to help more people benefit from these opportunities.
The Minister also commended the technological advancements in Kashmir’s apple industry, noting how innovations have doubled production and extended shelf life, opening up new markets for farmers. He urged the youth to embrace such technologies and drive innovation in their fields.
Dr. Singh also pointed out the importance of visiting modern Indian institutions, suggesting that the students explore places like the National Physical Laboratory and the Prime Minister’s Museum to gain a deeper understanding of India’s scientific progress and governance.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Singh urged the youth to focus on self-awareness and career planning, advising them to identify their strengths and align their aspirations with the many opportunities provided by the government. He reassured them of the government’s commitment to their development, urging them to seize these opportunities for a brighter future.(KINS)
