KTMF-Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation

14/06/2026

12/06/2026

KTMF raises concerns of traders affected by Nagbal–Wayil road expansion project, seeks rehabilitation.

Ganderbal,June12:A delegation of traders and business representatives led by Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) President Mohammad Yaseen Khan today met Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmad at his Kangan residence to discuss the concerns of shopkeepers and traders especially Beehama Ganderbal market likely to be affected by the proposed road expansion project from Nagbal to Wayil via Ganderbal.

The delegation highlighted that while the trading community fully supports developmental initiatives and improved infrastructure, the livelihood concerns of hundreds of traders and shopkeepers whose establishments may be affected by the project cannot be ignored. The delegation stressed that development and public welfare must go hand in hand and that those facing displacement due to the project should be adequately compensated and properly rehabilitated before any eviction or demolition process is undertaken.

Speaking on the occasion KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan said that traders are not opposed to development. However many affected families depend entirely on their businesses for survival and have financial commitments, including loans, employee salaries and family responsibilities. Therefore a comprehensive rehabilitation must be ensured before any displacement takes place.

The delegation included Traders Federation Ganderbal President Ghulam Hassan Parra, senior functionaries of Traders Federation Ganderbal Ashfaq Ahmad Lankar and Zahoor Ahmad Bhat who also apprised the Member of Parliament about the concerns and apprehensions of the local business community.

Mian Altaf Ahmad gave a patient hearing to the delegation and assured them that he would do everything possible to safeguard the interests of the affected traders and take up the matter with the concerned authorities. He reiterated that development projects should be implemented in a manner that protects the livelihood and dignity of the people.

KTMF expressed hope that the government will adopt a humane and balanced approach by ensuring proper rehabilitation and meaningful engagement with all affected stakeholders before proceeding with the project.

08/06/2026

KTMF appeals for immediate relief and long term protection measures for horticulture sector.

Srinagar,07June: Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) has expressed grave concern over the extensive damage caused by hailstorms, strong winds, and incessant heavy rainfall during the past month across several districts of Kashmir, particularly in Kulgam, Bandipora, Budgam, Shopian, Anantnag, Kupwara, Baramulla and Pulwama.

In a statement issued, KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan said, these adverse weather events have severely affected orchards, standing crops, and agricultural land, causing immense losses to thousands of fruit growers and farmers. The horticulture sector, which forms the backbone of Kashmir’s economy and provides livelihood to lakhs of families directly and indirectly, has suffered yet another major setback.

Khan stated that the repeated occurrence of such weather-related calamities is pushing growers into financial distress. Many orchardists have lost a substantial portion of their expected harvest due to hailstorm damage, fruit drop, and destruction of trees and crops.

KTMF urges the Government of Jammu & Kashmir to immediately conduct comprehensive damage assessment surveys in all affected areas and announce a special compensation package for the affected fruit growers and farmers. The relief should be adequate and disbursed without delay so that the affected families can recover from the losses suffered.

KTMF further appeals for concrete and long-term measures to safeguard Kashmir’s horticulture sector from recurring climatic challenges. These measures should include; Expansion of crop and orchard insurance coverage, Subsidies for anti-hail nets and protective infrastructure. Also establishment of a robust weather forecasting and early warning system, Scientific interventions to mitigate climate-related risks, Special financial assistance and soft loans for affected growers, Strengthening of horticulture extension services and disaster response mechanisms are much needed measures to protect out backbone.

KTMF believes that protecting horticulture is not merely an agricultural issue but an economic necessity for Jammu & Kashmir. The prosperity of thousands of traders, transporters, workers, packers, and associated industries is directly linked to the well-being of the horticulture sector.

KTMF stands firmly with the affected growers and urges the administration to treat this matter with utmost urgency and seriousness.

01/06/2026

KTMF appeals public to avoid swimming in undesignated water bodies following recent drowning tragedies.

Srinagar, June 1: Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) has expressed profound grief and sorrow over the recent drowning incidents in Kashmir that have claimed the lives of several young boys over the past two days.

In a statement issued, KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan said these heartbreaking tragedies have once again highlighted the dangers posed by rivers, lakes, canals, streams and other water bodies particularly during the summer season when many youngsters venture out for swimming and recreation.

“KTMF appeals to all parents, guardians and members of the public to exercise utmost caution and ensure that children and youth do not enter water bodies at undesignated and unsupervised locations. Swimming should only be undertaken at designated places where proper safety arrangements and supervision are available”, Khan said.

KTMF also urges the concerned authorities to intensify public awareness campaigns, install warning signboards at vulnerable locations and strengthen safety measures around water bodies known for drowning incidents. Every precious life lost is an irreparable tragedy for families and society. Collective responsibility and vigilance are essential to prevent such unfortunate incidents from recurring.
KTMF extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prays for strength and patience for them during this difficult time.

01/06/2026

Kashmir’s export sector, particularly handicrafts and agricultural products, is expected to benefit from the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which is set to come into force from June 1 and is likely to improve market access, reduce tariff barriers and enhance compet...

24/05/2026

23/05/2026

KTMF appeals traders to keep shops open this Sunday ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, urges public to support physical markets.

Srinagar, May 23: In view of the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha and the prevailing economic situation, Kashmir Traders & Manufacturers Federation(KTMF) President Mohammad Yaseen Khan has appealed to traders across Kashmir to keep their establishments open this Sunday in the days leading up to Eid-ul-Azha to facilitate shoppers and provide greater convenience to consumers.

Mohammad Yaseen Khan said that the business sector has already been facing a prolonged period of sluggishness and uncertainty, with market activity remaining below expectations. He expressed concern that the rapid rise of online shopping platforms has further dealt a severe blow to local businesses and traditional markets, adversely affecting the livelihood of thousands of traders, shopkeepers and associated families.

Khan emphasized that while online commerce continues to expand aggressively, physical markets remain the backbone of the local economy and generate direct employment opportunities for a large section of society. He appealed to people to prefer physical shopping and support local businesses, particularly during the festive season.

“Every purchase made from local markets strengthens our economy and supports thousands of families dependent on trade. We urge shoppers to visit markets and choose physical shopping over online modes, especially during Eid preparations,” Khan said.

Khan also called upon traders and business establishments to offer genuine discounts and fair pricing to customers during the festive period. He said traders should uphold trust and transparency and ensure consumers receive quality products at reasonable prices.

Khan added that the festive season should serve as an opportunity not only for businesses to recover from economic hardships but also for strengthening the bond between traders and consumers through honesty, cooperation, and mutual support.

KTMF expressed hope that with collective efforts from traders and the public, markets across Kashmir will witness increased activity and a positive business environment in the run-up to Eid-ul-Azha.