₹125 Crore Project for Jammu and ₹130 Crore for Srinagar; Work Allocation Letters Expected in November
Srinagar, October 22: Jammu and Srinagar are set to get PM Ekta Malls at a combined cost of ₹255 crore, aimed at promoting the region’s handicrafts, handloom products and cultural heritage while providing local producers with access to wider markets.
Construction of the two malls is expected to begin by the end of this year, with work allocation letters planned for November.
Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo reviewed the progress of both projects during a high-level meeting in Srinagar. The proposed mall in Jammu will be developed at an estimated cost of ₹125 crore, while the Srinagar project will cost approximately ₹130 crore.
The contract committee reviewed the projects on October 19, and the work allocation letters are expected to be issued by the third week of November.
Public-Private Partnership Model for Operations
The government plans to adopt a public-private partnership (PPP) model for the operation and maintenance of both malls. Private partners will be selected through a competitive bidding process.
The Ekta Malls will showcase Kashmir’s traditional handicrafts, handloom products, indigenous goods and cultural heritage. They will also provide a common platform for displaying products from other states and Union Territories across India.
Boost for Artisans, Entrepreneurs and Tourism
The projects are expected to benefit local artisans, craftspeople, entrepreneurs and producers by connecting them with broader markets.
The malls are also expected to promote tourism, generate employment opportunities and support sustainable livelihoods across Jammu and Kashmir.
By bringing commerce, culture and tourism together under one roof, the initiative aims to strengthen the region’s economic potential and create new opportunities for local businesses.
Focus on National and International Markets
A key objective of the initiative is to promote products under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme and those carrying Geographical Indication (GI) tags.
The initiative seeks to enhance the visibility of locally produced goods and improve their access to domestic and international markets.
The government will maintain policy and strategic oversight of the projects. Once operational, the two Ekta Malls are expected to strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s links with India’s retail and cultural ecosystem while providing local products with greater market visibility.
The projects represent an effort to preserve the region’s traditional craftsmanship while creating new avenues for trade, tourism and economic development.
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