Hoping to stay logged in

Startups in the Valley have frequently faced internet shutdowns. They hope the new J&K govt will foster stronger ecosystem for scaling businesses, reports SARTHAK CHOUDHURY

With the first round of Assembly elections in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir just concluded, the air in Srinagar's Lal Chowk is buzzing with political discussions. While most chatter revolves around the second phase of elections on September 25 and the candidates, for a smaller group of shopkeepers, a more pressing matter is the impact of frequent internet shutdowns on the region's small businesses and startups.

"After GST and demonetisation, internet shutdown has been the third hammer blow to small businesses," one shopkeeper remarks. "In this digital age, we've lost countless customers due to connectivity issues. During winter, when tourist numbers dwindle, we rely on online demand and deliveries, but even that often hangs in limbo when the internet is down."

For years, Jammu and Kashmir has faced a high number of internet blackouts, and the region's startups have borne the brunt of such disruptions. "Internet connectivity is the lifeblood of a startup, and its frequent suspension has posed immense challenges," says Ishan Verma, president of the J&K Startup Association. "Prior to 2019 due to the then prevailing law and order situation, startups faced significant hurdles in operating without reliable internet, as most rely heavily on technology or digital platforms."