Srinagar: In a significant development for the business landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, e-commerce giant Amazon India has announced to open its maiden floating store in the mesmerizing Dal Lake.
According to the observers this move marks the growth of the vibrant online business culture in the region, offering new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and bringing convenience to customers.
“The online floating store in Dal Lake, a popular tourist destination, would provide a unique shopping experience and promote the online marketplace among the local population, tourism industry, and the wider Kashmiri community,” an observer told Precious Kashmir.
“Kashmir, previously lagging in terms of e-commerce adoption, is now on the verge of becoming a burgeoning digital hub, thanks to the efforts of enterprising individuals and support from major online retailers,” he added.
Pertinently, during the past few years online stores in Kashmir have been operating as a mobile marketplace, allowing customers easy access to a range of products from various categories, delivered right to their doorstep. From electronics and fashion to kitchen essentials and home decor, the store aims to offer a diverse range of products to cater to a broad customer base.
“The online business platforms are also helping local business owners and artisans as it has provided them with an opportunity to showcase their products to a wider audience. The online stores are serving as a hub for artisans and local entrepreneurs to market their unique crafts, such as intricately designed Kashmiri carpets, shawls, spices, and handicrafts. By leveraging the platform provided by online service providers, these artisans have been able to reach a larger customer base, leading to increased sales and a boost to the local economy,” the observer added.
“The online stores have also generated employment opportunities. Many companies have hired local staff for various roles, including customer support, logistics, and store management. The online platforms are contributing to the alleviation of unemployment, a longstanding issue for many in the region,” said a businessman.
He said, “The online platforms have also helped in promoting the tourism sector, a vital part of Kashmir’s economy. The online holiday packages are attracting more and more tourists to Kashmir,” he added.
As Kashmir continues to embrace the digital era, online stores are emerging as symbols of progress, economic development, and empowerment for the region. These are setting a precedent for other online businesses to invest in the untapped potential of Kashmir, ushering in a new era of growth and prosperity for the region.
