Jammu, Jul 02, 2025: In a major revelation that underscores the entrepreneurial energy building in Jammu and Kashmir, the Mission Yuva Baseline Survey Report 2024-25 has identified 5.48 lakh potential entrepreneurs across the Union Territory, with agriculture and retail emerging as the top sectors of interest.
The report presents a comprehensive insight into the aspirations and economic leanings of the region’s youth amid persistent unemployment challenges. Of the 5,48,761 potential entrepreneurs, 3,43,871 are currently unemployed—a group dominated by males (63.1%) but showing strong participation from females (36.9%). Meanwhile, 1,48,035 are employed but show strong intent to pivot into entrepreneurial ventures.
Another 56,855 individuals are engaged in informal or unregistered economic activities, reflecting the untapped potential in regularizing and scaling grassroots enterprises.
Top Sectors: Agriculture, Retail, and Services Lead
The report highlights that the agriculture, forestry and fishing sector commands the highest interest, with over 31,840 youth preferring it as their entrepreneurial choice. Wholesale and retail trade, along with service sectors, follow closely.
Among skilled respondents, agriculture tops the list again, followed by interest in motor vehicle/motorcycle services, construction, and manufacturing—pointing to both traditional and evolving business avenues in the UT.
Dairy Farming Dominates Individual Preferences
Dairy farming has emerged as the single most preferred entrepreneurial activity across categories—signaling both cultural relevance and business viability in rural and semi-urban areas.
Moderate Investment, High Potential
In terms of investment size:
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56,100 respondents are ready to invest between ₹5–10 lakh
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43,130 prefer ₹2–5 lakh, and
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27,490 plan to invest between ₹10–20 lakh
This data suggests a preference for moderate-scale enterprises with sustainable risk-to-reward ratios.
Key Requirements: Funding, Training & Mentorship
The most critical support sought by budding entrepreneurs is financial assistance, with 49% citing funding or loans as their top requirement. Other demands include:
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Entrepreneurship training/workshops (21%)
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Mentorship from seasoned business leaders (12%)
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Access to markets and industry information (10%)
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Networking platforms (5%)
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Simplified legal and regulatory frameworks (3%)
A Call for Targeted Interventions
The report urges targeted support in sectors with low technical skill density but high entrepreneurial interest, especially agriculture and retail trade. By addressing skill gaps and enhancing access to capital and mentorship, the government can catalyze a new wave of economic self-reliance in Jammu and Kashmir.
“The findings reflect a powerful shift towards self-employment and grassroots enterprise. With the right ecosystem—finance, training, and market access—J&K’s youth are poised to redefine the region’s economic future,” the report concludes.
The findings form a crucial foundation for Mission Yuva’s long-term vision to nurture over 1.5 lakh new entrepreneurs and generate 4.25 lakh jobs in the next five years across the Union Territory.
