Jammu: LEAD – LJK Economic Growth and Development Dialogue Thursday released the Third Edition of its Annual Smarika at a ceremony held at Amar Singh Club, Jammu.
The publication reflects LEAD’s continued commitment to promoting inclusive economic growth, entrepreneurship, innovation, policy dialogue and sustainable development across the Union Territories of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.
The Smarika was formally released by the Chief Guest, Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu and the Guest of Honour, Arun Kumar Manhas, Director, Industries & Commerce, Jammu in the presence of LEAD Board Members, Executive Members and prominent business identities.
The third edition highlights LEAD’s initiatives and achievements over the past year, including programmes focused on entrepreneurship development, startup promotion, rural livelihoods, agriculture, tourism, skill development, policy research, youth engagement, environmental sustainability and collaborative partnerships with government institutions, academic bodies, industry and civil society organisations.
Speaking on the occasion, LEAD Convenor Harinder Gupta reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to promoting evidence-based policy research, strengthening local enterprises, supporting startups, encouraging youth leadership and facilitating sustainable economic opportunities across the region.
Addressing the gathering, Arun Kumar Manhas, Director, Industries & Commerce, Jammu congratulated the LEAD team and appreciated the organisation’s efforts, stating that the Industries & Commerce Department continues to support LEAD’s initiatives in promoting entrepreneurship and economic development.
Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu commended LEAD for its remarkable contribution to regional development. He said he has been associated with LEAD’s initiatives from the beginning. He particularly appreciated Mahotsav – Jammu Kashmir Ladakh, describing it as one of Jammu’s most significant public events that has successfully showcased the region’s entrepreneurship, culture, tourism, handicrafts, agriculture, cuisine and local enterprises.
LEAD Board Member Sanjeev Sharma noted that the Annual Smarika serves not only as a record of LEAD’s initiatives but also as a valuable knowledge resource documenting best practices, success stories, research insights, and future development priorities. He thanked Hon’ble LG, Manoj Sinha for his cover message for this year’s Smarika as he praised LEAD present work and his good wishes for LEAD’s future initiatives.
Delivering the vote of thanks, LEAD Board Member Raman Suri expressed his gratitude to the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour, distinguished guests, partners and participants for their support and presence at the event.
The event was anchored by Vishal Abrol, Coordinator – Real Estate & Housing, LEAD, who conducted the proceedings and ensured the smooth flow of the programme. 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. AjatShatrooJamwal, Parveen Pargal along with Executive Officer Alankrit Mahajan, LEAD Executive Members, distinguished dignitaries, policymakers, academicians, entrepreneurs, industry representatives, civil society members and development professionals.
LEAD (LJK Economic Growth and Development Dialogue) is a development think tank dedicated to promoting inclusive economic growth, entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable development across the Union Territories of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. Through research, policy dialogue, capacity building and multi-stakeholder partnerships, LEAD works to strengthen local ecosystems and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for communities across the region.
