The L-G shared significant figures to highlight industrial transformation of J&K after the New Industrial Policy was launched in 2021.

He said, "In financial year 2025-26 alone, J&K attracted investment of Rs 5,824 crore-more than 13 times the average investment recorded before 2021. In FY 2022-23, investment was Rs 2,153 crore; in FY 2023-24 Rs 3,389 crore; and in FY 2024-25 Rs 4,145 crore. In addition, half of the preliminary work has already been completed on 312 units worth Rs 7,864 crore with production expected to begin in FY 2026-27. J&K has also seen, for the first time, the establishment of several units with investments exceeding Rs 500 crore," he said.

"The number of start-ups has risen from just 69 in 2020 to 1,305 in FY 2025-26, a growth of over 1,800 per cent. Combined with all industrial units and Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP)-supported units, millions of young people have gained better employment opportunities," the L-G said.

The L-G was speaking at the inaugural ceremony of Eveready Industries India Limited's new industrial unit in Samba. The plant established with an investment of Rs 200 crore will create local jobs, boost ancillary units, suppliers and service providers, promote skill development, generate opportunities for women and make a significant contribution to the economic development of J&K.

The L-G observed that across Samba, Kathua, Jammu and many parts of Kashmir, the industrial revolution is the new era for J&K. He said in the past five years, the scale of industrial development has moved beyond mere economic figures and become the most powerful medium of transformation across UT.

"Establishing this esteemed company's plant is a landmark moment for the entire Jammu and Kashmir. It signals readiness to embrace opportunity, serve the nation and light the way to the future. It also reflects strong confidence in the immense potential of Jammu and Kashmir," the L-G said.

Manoj Sinha said through today's inauguration, "we have also sent a message to the whole world that while our neighbouring country continues to run factories of terrorism, India is building factories of progress and success".

"Today, we have told the world that while our neighbour's factories churn out terrorists, India's factories are engaged in nation-building. We are also conveying that the economic potential, industrial energy and inclusive development of J&K are advancing with a new sense of pride," the L-G said.

Eveready's new manufacturing plant is expected to have production capacity of approximately 360 million alkaline batteries with an annual installed capacity of 456 million.