Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has launched a week-long Management Development Programme to strengthen the digital capabilities of regional entrepreneurs and micro, small and medium enterprises.

The programme, titled Management of E-Commerce for Promoting Local Products and Tapping Unexplored National Markets, is organised by the university’s Institute of Business and Policy Research. It is designed to equip participants with digital tools and managerial skills to bridge the gap between local production and national consumer demand.

In his keynote address, Dr S. H. Baba, Professor at IBPR, outlined contemporary e-commerce strategies and managerial frameworks required to remain competitive in the digital economy. He emphasised that effective use of digital platforms has become essential for promoting local products in an increasingly competitive national marketplace.

Earlier, Dr Omar Fayaz Khan, Assistant Professor at IBPR and organiser of the programme, highlighted the role of e-commerce in expanding market visibility and enabling businesses to reach wider consumer segments. Dr Ashiq H. Lone, Co-Coordinator of the programme, stressed the importance of collaborative networks and linked the initiative’s objectives with the National Education Policy’s focus on skill development.

Sponsored by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Government of India, the training programme aims to strengthen the local business ecosystem by empowering participants with practical managerial and digital skills to support sustainable business growth and market expansion.