Kashmir Printers’ Association elects new team

The Kashmir Printers’ Association (KPA) convened its General Body meeting in Srinagar, marking a significant moment for the region’s printing industry with the unanimous election of its new leadership. Shabir Ahmad of Mehjoor Art Press has been elected president, and Shahid Ahmad Malik of Speedway Printers has been elected general secretary for the upcoming term.

The elections, held at the association’s headquarters, underscored the KPA’s commitment to fostering unity and advancing the interests of the printing sector in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting saw the participation of a diverse group of printers from across the Kashmir Valley and was conducted collaboratively and transparently. Both Ahmad and Malik, recognised figures in the local printing community, were elected without opposition, reflecting confidence in their leadership capabilities.

The KPA also announced that the remaining members of the working body will be nominated through mutual consultation within the coming week, aiming for a balanced and inclusive executive team.

Shabir Ahmad, the newly elected President, brings decades of experience to his role through his leadership at Mehjoor Art Press, an establishment known for its quality and innovation. In his acceptance speech, Ahmad emphasised the critical need for modernisation and sustainability within the printing sector. "He said, "Our goal is to strengthen the industry by adopting new technologies, promoting eco-friendly practices, and addressing the challenges faced by small and medium-scale printers in the region." He highlighted the importance of collaboration with government bodies to secure support for the industry’s growth, particularly in the context of Jammu and Kashmir’s evolving economic landscape.

Shahid Ahmad Malik, the new general secretary, is a dynamic leader with a track record of advocating for printers’ rights at Speedway Printers. In his remarks, Malik underscored the association’s role in safeguarding the interests of its members amidst rising operational costs and market competition. He said, "We will work tirelessly to ensure that our members have access to affordable resources, training, and opportunities to compete in both national and international markets." Malik also expressed his commitment to fostering dialogue between the KPA and other regional trade bodies to enhance the industry’s visibility and influence.

As an organisation representing printers across Kashmir, the KPA plays a critical role in addressing industry challenges, including access to raw materials, technological advancements, and regulatory compliance. The association has been instrumental in organising workshops, advocating for policy changes, and promoting the region’s printing industry as a vital contributor to the local economy.

These elections come at a time when Jammu and Kashmir is experiencing renewed economic activities. The KPA’s general body meeting also included discussions on key issues such as the impact of digital publishing on traditional printing, the need for subsidised raw materials, and strategies to promote Kashmiri literature and art through print media. The association plans to hold a follow-up meeting to finalise the composition of the working body and outline a comprehensive agenda for the new term.

As the KPA embarks on this new chapter under the leadership of Shabir Ahmad and Shahid Ahmad Malik, the printing community in Kashmir anticipates a period of growth, innovation, and collaboration. The association’s efforts will be closely watched by industry stakeholders and policymakers alike as they navigate the opportunities and challenges of a rapidly evolving economic and technological landscape.