JAMMU: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized on Sunday that the startup potential in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has yet to be fully tapped. Speaking at a Volunteers and Influencers Meet organized by the Social Media department of the Jammu & Kashmir BJP, he noted that while the startup movement in the region started relatively late, it is poised for rapid growth in the coming years.

Dr. Singh credited Prime Minister Modi for initiating awareness around startups with the “StartUp India, StandUp India” campaign, which has significantly increased the number of startups in India—from around 350 in 2014 to over 150,000 today, positioning India as the third-largest startup ecosystem globally.

He highlighted that J&K’s startup scene began to flourish only five years ago, particularly after the abrogation of Article 370, with the number of startups growing from 30 to approximately 350–400.

The Minister pointed out that global recognition of India’s youth potential is evident, as India has improved its ranking in the Global Innovation Index from 81 to 40. He stressed that the lack of enabling environments prior to 2014 hindered talent, which has now been addressed under Modi’s leadership.

Dr. Singh cited the dramatic rise in startups within the space sector, which surged from single digits to around 200 due to private sector involvement. The biotechnology sector also saw growth from 50 startups in 2014 to over 6,000, emphasizing India’s potential in the forthcoming bioeconomy-driven industrial revolution. He noted the recent approval of the BioE3 policy by the Cabinet as a significant step in this direction.

In the context of J&K, Dr. Singh mentioned the ongoing exploration of mines and Himalayan resources under the Modi government. He specifically referenced the Purple Revolution and lavender agritech startups emerging from Bhaderwah, which were highlighted by Prime Minister Modi in Doda. He also discussed plans for exploring lithium and sapphire mines in the region.

Dr. Singh urged young influencers to investigate these emerging opportunities and engage the youth, who make up over 70% of India’s population, in realizing the full potential of J&K’s startup landscape.