The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), the 102 year old , and one of the oldest chambers of India , convened its 91st Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Hotel The Kabo, Wazir Bagh, Srinagar. The meeting, presided over by President Javid Ahmad Tenga, was attended by a large number of members, including past presidents, executive committee members, senior businessmen/entrepreneur KCCI members reflecting the depth and diversity of the Chamber’s membership.
The proceedings began with the presentation of the Annual Administrative Report by Secretary General Faiz Ahmad Bakshi, covering the period from the last AGM held in September 2024 up to September 2025. Members were informed about the wide range of activities and initiatives undertaken by the Chamber during the year to safeguard the interests of trade, industry, handicrafts, tourism, horticulture, transport, MSME’s, allied sectors, and Goods & service sectors in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking about the work accomplished over the year, Faiz Ahmad Bakshi said, “The Chamber has actively engaged with government authorities to advocate for policy reforms that directly benefit our business community. One of our key achievements has been the successful push for the reduction of GST on handicrafts, several essential goods and services, providing significant relief to traders and consumers alike. At the same time, we have been promoting tourism, encouraging local handicrafts, and supporting goods & service sectors to ensure sustained economic growth across the Valley. Our focus remains on creating a favourable business environment while promoting the unique cultural and economic heritage of Kashmir.”
The house approved the Administrative Report, Auditor’s Report, Statement of Income & Expenditure, Budget for 2025- 26, and ratification of auditors , reflecting confidence in the functioning and accountability of the Chamber.
One of the key agenda points was the announcement of the results of the election to the Executive Committee for the 2025–27 term and the subsequent election of Office Bearers under Section 16 of the Articles of Association. However, owing to the deferment order issued by the District Magistrate, Srinagar, the elections could not be held as scheduled, and these agenda points were deferred. In this context, Past President Mr. Abdul Hamid Punjabi moved a resolution which stated: “RESOLVED THAT the tenure of the present Executive Committee and the Office Bearers of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry, which is coming to an end today, BE & IS extended till the time the deferred elections to the Executive Committee are held.
FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the present Executive Committee and Office Bearers will continue to exercise powers and represent the Chamber at all fora till the time the new Executive Committee and Office Bearers assume charge.”
The House unanimously adopted the resolution, ensuring continuity in functioning of the Executive Committee and the office bearers, and representation during the interim period. Another important resolution adopted was regarding the construction of the Chamber House at Rajbagh, Srinagar. The House approved the constitution of an empowered committee to oversee the project, which has been a longstanding aspiration of the members. The Chamber House is expected to provide a permanent institutional space for the body, enhancing its capacity to serve the business community more effectively.
The AGM also celebrated the invaluable contributions of the Chamber’s stalwarts who have shaped its journey over the years. Past Presidents, Mr. Rauf Ahmad Punjabi and Mr. Nazir Ahmad Dar, were felicitated in recognition of their unwavering dedication, and tireless efforts in advancing the interests of the business community of Kashmir. Their guidance has left an indelible mark on the Chamber’s legacy. In addition, senior members Syed Masood Ahmad Shah and Mr. Nazir Ahmad Wani were honoured for their exceptional service, commitment, and the pivotal role they have played in strengthening the institutional framework of KCCI, inspiring both current and future generations of entrepreneurs.
Several members expressed concern over the deferment of the Executive Committee polls, urging that strong action be taken against individuals attempting to create hurdles in the smooth functioning of the Chamber. The members also highlighted a range of issues requiring urgent government attention, some of which have been pending resolution for a considerable time.
Addressing the House, President Javid Ahmad Tenga acknowledged the challenges posed by the deferment of elections but called for unity, patience, and collective resolve. He remarked:
“Our Chamber has withstood the test of time through decades of challenges. The deferment of elections is certainly a setback, but it should not weaken our determination to serve our business community. Instead, it should inspire us to work with renewed energy and solidarity.”
“We are not just a trade body; we are the collective conscience of the business fraternity of Kashmir. Every trader, every entrepreneur, every industrialist, lacs of artisans are our brothers. The concerns raised by our members today will not go unheard. The KCCI will pursue them with greater zeal and zest, ensuring that our government and policymakers understand the urgency of addressing these matters.”
The President also emphasized the importance of institutional strengthening, especially with the proposed Chamber House project: “A permanent home for our Chamber is not just a matter of infrastructure—it symbolizes stability, continuity, and vision for the future. It will be the heart of our business community, a place where ideas are nurtured and strategies are forged for the economic empowerment of our people.”
Mr. Tenga reiterated KCCI’s role as the primary advocate of Kashmiri trade, commerce and industry, noting that the Chamber has been consistently engaging with government authorities at every level. He assured members that the issues highlighted during the AGM—ranging from trade facilitation to industrial incentives—would be actively pursued.
“Our voice must remain strong and united The Chamber will continue to represent your concerns with dignity and determination. We owe this to our business community, to our economy, and to the generations who will follow us.”
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks to the Chair, the Office Bearers, and the members for their enthusiastic participation. The impressive turnout and active engagement of members reaffirmed the Chamber’s enduring relevance as the premier institution representing the business community of Kashmir.
