New-generation entrepreneurs hit hard by internet blackout in Kashmir

The two-month-long suspension of internet services in Kashmir in the aftermath of the Centre's withdrawal of J&K's special status on August 5 has hit hard the new generation of entrepreneurs who extensively use social media to trade.

Scores of young men and women across the Kashmir valley had given wings to their dreams and started doing business via social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram and depended on the internet to earn their livelihood. However, their business has been shut since the night of August 4, when internet services were suspended for security reasons.

The services across all platforms have remained suspended since and these new-generation entrepreneurs have been virtually left jobless.

Omaira, a resident of Srinagar, who runs the online outlet 'Craft World Kashmir' with her friend Binish, said they are losing business due to the internet blockade.

"Our business used to run through Facebook and Instagram. We display our work there only and do not have a physical store. We have over 49,000 followers on Instagram and received orders online from our customers and then delivered the products," Omaira said.

"Our business was going well before the internet blockade. With the suspension of internet, our customers are not able to contact us and neither are we. This has resulted in total loss."