Jammu, Aug 6: LEAD (LJK Economic Growth and Development Dialogue) on Thursday released the third edition of its Annual Smarika, showcasing its work in promoting entrepreneurship, innovation, policy research and sustainable development across Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.

The publication was unveiled at a function held at the Amar Singh Club, Jammu, by Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, in the presence of Director Industries & Commerce, Jammu, Arun Kumar Manhas, along with LEAD Board members, entrepreneurs, policymakers, academicians and representatives from industry and civil society.
The latest edition of the Smarika documents LEAD's initiatives and achievements over the past year, covering areas such as entrepreneurship development, startup promotion, rural livelihoods, agriculture, tourism, skill development, youth engagement, environmental sustainability, policy research and collaborations with government institutions, academia and industry.
Speaking on the occasion, LEAD Convenor Harinder Gupta reiterated the organisation's commitment to advancing evidence-based policy research, strengthening local enterprises, supporting startups, encouraging youth leadership and creating sustainable economic opportunities across the region.
Director Industries & Commerce, Arun Kumar Manhas, congratulated the LEAD team and appreciated its contribution towards fostering entrepreneurship, stating that the department remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote innovation and economic development.
Addressing the gathering, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar lauded LEAD's role in regional development and recalled his long association with the organisation. He particularly praised Mahotsav – Jammu Kashmir Ladakh, describing it as one of Jammu's flagship public events that has effectively showcased the region's entrepreneurship, tourism, handicrafts, agriculture, cuisine and cultural heritage.
LEAD Board Member Sanjeev Sharma said the Annual Smarika serves as both a record of the organisation's activities and a valuable knowledge resource featuring best practices, success stories, research insights and future development priorities. He also thanked Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for contributing the cover message for this year's edition and acknowledging LEAD's work.
The vote of thanks was delivered by LEAD Board Member Raman Suri, while the proceedings were conducted by Vishal Abrol, Coordinator – Real Estate & Housing, LEAD.
The event was attended by LEAD Board Members Ramesh Kumar Chibber, Kamal Kishore Sharma, Surinder Mohan Gupta, Rajesh Gupta, CA Rajeev Gupta, Vikram Gujral, Col. Ajat Shatroo Jamwal and Parveen Pargal, Executive Officer Alankrit Mahajan, executive members, entrepreneurs, development professionals and other distinguished guests.
LEAD is a regional development think tank working to promote inclusive economic growth, entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable development through research, policy dialogue, capacity building and multi-stakeholder partnerships across the Union Territories of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.