‘Invest Wisely, Not Blindly,’ Advises NSE Chief Ashishkumar Chauhan
SYED BASHARAT
MUMBAI, Oct 10: In a strong indicator of growing financial literacy and inclusion, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a tenfold increase in its investor base over the last decade.
According to data shared by the National Stock Exchange (NSE), the investor base in J&K has surged from 0.4 lakh in FY10 to 7.1 lakh in FY26 (till date) — a 25.5% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR), which outpaces the national CAGR of 19.8%.
The figures also reveal that since FY22 alone, over 5.5 lakh new investors have joined the market from J&K.
This surge reflects a deepening penetration of market-linked investment avenues beyond India’s metros into its northernmost Union Territory.
While female participation across India has risen to 16.3%, the NSE expressed optimism that participation from women investors in J&K will also see a notable increase in the years ahead.
This information was shared during a PIB organized visit by a media delegation from Jammu and Kashmir to the NSE headquarters in Mumbai, where the team interacted with key officials and witnessed the functioning of one of the world’s most technologically advanced stock exchanges.
The visit began with a warm welcome by Shri Ashishkumar Chauhan, Managing Director and CEO of the NSE, who addressed the journalists and engaged in an interactive session on India’s investment landscape, the role of the NSE, and the importance of financial awareness.
When asked about the limited number of listed companies from J&K—only two at present, Mr. Chauhan explained, “We are a trade-conducting and regulatory body; we can’t compel businesses to get listed. However, any company from J&K or elsewhere that meets the criteria and is interested in listing is most welcome to join the NSE.”
On the issue of cryptocurrency investments, he issued a note of caution, urging investors to act responsibly.
“Investors should be extremely mindful before investing their hard-earned money in stocks, mutual funds, or digital assets. Don’t be influenced by online predictions or social media trends—evaluate company performance, study fundamentals, and make informed choices,” he emphasized.
Following the interaction, the delegation attended a presentation by Dr. Tirthankar Patnaik, Chief Economist (Economic Policy and Research) at NSE, who provided an in-depth overview of India’s economic trajectory and investment growth.
India on Path to USD 5 Trillion Economy
Dr. Patnaik highlighted that India’s nominal GDP is projected to grow at an estimated 12%, with real growth projected at 6.3–6.8%, as per the Economic Survey. India’s GDP has climbed from USD 477 billion in 2000 to over USD 3.46 trillion in 2022, making it the fifth-largest economy globally. By 2027, India is expected to become the world’s third-largest economy, surpassing Japan and Germany, with a projected GDP of USD 5.3 trillion.
India Leads in Global Capability Centres (GCCs)
Another key highlight of the session was India’s emergence as a global powerhouse in Global Capability Centres (GCCs) — offshore hubs set up by multinational corporations for operations, R&D, and innovation.
Dr. Patnaik presented data showing that India currently hosts 2,975+ GCC units, the largest share in the world, contributing to 50% of the global GCC market. The number of GCCs in India is expected to grow from 1,700+ in FY24 to over 2,200 by FY30, with the market size projected to reach USD 100 billion.
With over 120,000 AI professionals driving digital transformation and 6,500+ global roles already created (expected to grow by 30,000 more in the next six years), India’s GCC ecosystem is fast evolving into a high-value innovation hub. Notably, 44% of GCCs have already transitioned into portfolio hubs, offering strategic services beyond traditional back-office operations.
Leading global brands — including Microsoft, Amazon, Google, IBM, Siemens, Ford, and Unilever — have expanded their GCC presence in India, reaffirming the country’s position as a preferred global innovation base.
Tour of NSE’s National Operations Centre
The media delegation led by Director PIB Jammu Ms Neha Jalali alongwith officers of PIB Mumbai was later taken on a guided tour of the National Operations Centre (NOC) — the nerve centre of India’s equity market management. The NOC, equipped with cutting-edge technology and robust cybersecurity systems, ensures smooth trading operations and prevents any cyber breach that could destabilize the markets.
This immersive experience provided the delegation with a first-hand understanding of how NSE ensures transparency, efficiency, and security in capital market operations.
A Vision of Financial Inclusion
With the 10X jump in J&K’s investor base, the rising presence of Indian companies in global markets, and the country’s rapid economic advancement, the message from NSE was clear — India’s growth story is becoming increasingly participatory.
Financial awareness, literacy, and prudent investing are key to ensuring that citizens, including those from J&K, not only join this growth story but also benefit from it sustainably.
As Mr. Chauhan concluded: “The markets are for everyone — but only for those who learn before they leap.”
