Srinagar, Nov 08: MSME-sponsored Entrepreneurship Awareness Program on “Agri-Tourism Entrepreneurship Opportunities in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir” was organized by the Institute of Business and Policy Research, SKUAST-K, Shalimar, on Friday.
The program aimed to enhance awareness and knowledge of Agri-tourism entrepreneurship and startup opportunities among aspiring entrepreneurs.
Dr. Abid Sultan, Scientist and Training Coordinator, emphasized the potential of Agri-tourism in Jammu & Kashmir. He urged participants to mobilize community and local resources to develop Agri-tourism products and services. Dr. Sultan discussed the evolving business landscape and the rise of inter-sectoral business opportunities, encouraging participants to design experience-based, customized services that engage tourists effectively.
Dr. Farhet A. Shaheen, Professor at IBPR, stressed the importance of fostering an innovation culture among young entrepreneurs to tap into emerging economic opportunities, particularly in sectors with inter-sectoral linkages. He highlighted the potential of Agri-tourism businesses in the region, underscoring the need for specialized skills and awareness to create successful ventures. Prof. Shaheen also advocated for pooling physical and intellectual resources to capitalize on innovative ideas.
Prof. S. H. Baba, Head of IBPR, spoke on the need to shift away from conventional mindsets to maximize economic benefits from agriculture and allied sectors. He discussed recent transformations in agriculture in line with sustainable development goals, responsible tourism, and citizenship. Prof. Baba outlined the various facets of Agri-tourism and its economic potential in the region, emphasizing the strategic interventions needed to make it a profitable and sustainable industry.
