The launch of Mission YUVA (Yuva Udyami Vikas Abhiyan) by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir on January 26, 2025, marks a pivotal moment for the Union Territory. Spearheaded by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, this visionary initiative is a beacon of hope, igniting the aspirations of a region long yearning for economic and social renewal. By empowering youth—the heartbeat of J&K’s future—Mission YUVA is poised to reshape the region’s destiny.
With an audacious goal to foster 1.37 lakh enterprises and create 4.25 lakh jobs over five years, Mission YUVA is a clarion call to break free from the region’s reliance on government jobs. It champions first-generation entrepreneurs, particularly youth and women from remote areas, by harnessing J&K’s cultural treasures—Kashmiri shawls, Basohli paintings, and eco-tourism. This fusion of heritage and innovation ensures sustainable growth while preserving the region’s unique identity.
The initiative’s strength lies in its meticulous design. A baseline survey, powered by 20,000 investigators, gathers real-time data to identify potential entrepreneurs, while the Youth Skill & Entrepreneurship App revolutionizes access to opportunities. Offering job alerts, skill training, and AI-driven business planning, the app empowers youth to dream big. Schemes like “Rise Together” and “Mumkin” provide financial backing, with up to ₹20 lakh for community ventures, fostering collective progress. Partnerships with NABARD, J&K Bank, and IIM Jammu create a robust ecosystem of mentorship and funding.
Mission YUVA’s commitment to inclusivity—targeting youth aged 18–49, women, and marginalized groups—sets a new standard for equitable development. Recent training programs and vibrant public engagement, such as during International Yoga Day 2025, reflect its growing momentum. By tackling underemployment and nurturing self-reliance, it lays the foundation for a resilient economy.
Jammu and Kashmir stands at a turning point. Mission YUVA is not just a policy but a promise of empowerment, sparking hope and ambition. For a region poised for progress, this initiative is a radiant flame, illuminating a path to prosperity. We applaud its transformative vision and unwavering commitment to J&K’s youth.
