SRINAGAR, MAY 16: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Information Technology, Youth Services & Sports, Science & Technology and ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma, today inaugurated “ArchEx Srinagar 2026”, a mega architecture and building material exhibition, here today.
He underscored the need for sustainable urban planning, modern infrastructure development and promotion of innovation-driven construction practices in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Minister inaugurated the three-day exhibition in presence of Legislators, Farooq Ahmad Shah and Salman Sagar, Sheikh Ovaise, Tariq Ghani and several prominent architects, engineers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders and stakeholders from construction and infrastructure sectors.
Described as North India’s largest architecture and building material exhibition and the first of its kind in Jammu and Kashmir, ArchEx Srinagar 2026 has brought together more than 100 reputed companies from across the country. They showcasing the latest technologies, sustainable construction materials, modern architectural innovations, smart infrastructure solutions and interior products.
Following the inauguration, Satish Sharma toured various stalls and interacted with exhibitors, architects, engineers, builders and young entrepreneurs participating in the exhibition. He had detailed feedback regarding emerging trends in architecture, sustainable building technologies and modern infrastructure practices being adopted across the country.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that Jammu and Kashmir is undergoing a significant phase of infrastructural growth and urban transformation and such exhibitions can play an important role in connecting the local talent and industries with national-level expertise and technological advancements.
He said the government is committed towards encouraging sustainable and environmentally responsible development while preserving the unique cultural and architectural identity of Jammu & Kashmir. He observed that modern architecture must go hand in hand with ecological sensitivity, efficient urban planning and the promotion of indigenous design and construction practices.
Satish Sharma emphasised that the participation of leading national companies and professionals in the exhibition reflects the growing investment potential and developmental momentum of Jammu and Kashmir. He said such platforms create opportunities for the local youth, students and professionals to gain exposure to advanced technologies, innovative ideas and emerging trends in the architecture and construction sectors.
The Minister further stated that the government is focusing on modernisation across sectors including infrastructure, transportation, sports facilities, information technology and public service delivery and highlighted the importance of integrating innovation and technology into developmental planning.
He appreciated the efforts of the organizers for successfully conceptualising and hosting a large-scale professional exhibition in Srinagar. He said that such initiatives would contribute significantly towards boosting the economic activity, entrepreneurship and professional collaboration in the region.
A massive public response was witnessed during the inaugural day of the event, with thousands of visitors thronging the exhibition venue. The organisers informed that more than 20,000 visitors are expected during the three-day expo, including architects, engineers, interior designers, builders, students, entrepreneurs and consumers from different parts of Jammu & Kashmir and outside.
The exhibition is being organised by the Indian Institute of Architects Srinagar Centre in association with Minds Media & Management Private Limited with the aim of creating a vibrant platform for networking, knowledge exchange and promotion of contemporary architectural practices and modern construction technologies.
On the occasion, noted hotelier and entrepreneur Mushtaq Chaya was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his remarkable contributions and achievements in the hospitality sector. The recognition was widely appreciated by the dignitaries and participants present at the event.
