Srinagar, Oct 27: In a milestone for Kashmir’s business community, the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) convened at Koker Bazar, Srinagar, marking the long-awaited unification of trade leaders and representatives under a single leadership. This meeting represents a new chapter for KTMF, focused on advancing the rights and interests of traders and small businesses throughout the region. The leadership team now includes Haji Mushtaq Ahmed Darial as Chairman, Mohammad Sadiq Baqal as President, and Mohammad Altaf Dar as General Secretary, with the support of an active team of trade representatives.
The united federation addressed the key challenges facing traders, including policy revisions, tax burdens, market infrastructure, and administrative hurdles. KTMF leaders vowed to champion the needs of small traders, advocating for reduced taxes, improved infrastructure, and a regulatory framework that fosters business growth.
Chairman Haji Mushtaq Ahmed Darial expressed his appreciation for the confidence placed in him, saying, “With this unified KTMF, we are in a stronger position to support our community and address the challenges that our traders face. Together, we’ll work to safeguard the interests of every trader in the region.”
President Mohammad Sadiq Baqal highlighted the importance of unity, describing it as a catalyst for resilience and growth within Kashmir’s business community. “This union is a step towards creating a more robust and supportive business environment in the valley,” he noted.
General Secretary Mohammad Altaf Dar emphasized the role of a unified front in promoting stability and advocating for trader rights. Other notable leaders in attendance included Farooq Ahmad Batqoo, Nissar Ahmad Mir, Shahid Hussain Mir, Umer Mukhtar Bhat, Showkat Ahmad Bhat, Bashir Ahmad Siraj, Gh Rasool Shah, Rayees Ahmad Malik, Mehraj ud Din, Ajaz Ahmad Mir, Surjeet Singh, Hilal Ahmad Kuchay, Ajaz Sultan Bhat, Sofi Sadab, Fayaz Sikender, and Haji Altaf Hussain Dar, each sharing insights and voicing a shared commitment to the federation’s goals.
The KTMF delegation called upon the government to initiate meaningful dialogue with trade representatives to address rising costs, banking challenges, license and registration fees, sanitation charges, and the complexities of sales tax and GST. The leaders stressed the need for policy reforms that foster economic growth and sustainability, particularly for small businesses.
Concluding with a pledge of collective action, the KTMF leadership expressed their commitment to ensuring the voices of Kashmir’s traders are heard across all platforms. This unity is expected to pave the way for a thriving business environment, advocating for fair policies and a prosperous future for the trade community in Jammu and Kashmir.The long-pending unity of KTMF was finalized today, with structure the organization through consultations with other markets presidents will be done soon.
