| Introduction: Contextual Introduction Body: Highlight the role of tourism and horticulture in driving economic transformation in the region. Conclusion: Way forward |
Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) is undergoing a significant economic transformation, marked by increasing private-sector interest and infrastructural development. Strategic projects like the Sonmarg Tunnel, Vande Bharat connectivity, and private investments in manufacturing indicate a shift towards self-sustained growth.
Role of Tourism in Economic Transformation
- Enhanced Connectivity: New rail and road infrastructure, including the highest rail bridge over the Chenab, is making remote areas like Gool, Sangaldan, and Khari accessible, boosting tourism potential.
- Expansion of Tourist Destinations: Traditional hubs like Gulmarg and Pahalgam are seeing increased footfalls, while hidden gems like Bani, Dudu Basantgarh, and Gurez are being unlocked for tourism.
- Diversification of Tourism Offerings: To maximize returns, J&K must focus on high-value tourism—weddings, golf circuits, wellness resorts, and craft tourism—leveraging its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
- Sustainable Tourism Strategy: Expansion must be complemented with improved infrastructure (hotels, sanitation, transport) and ecological conservation to prevent environmental degradation.
Role of Horticulture in Economic Transformation
- Improving Yields: Apple production, the backbone of J&K’s horticulture, lags behind global leaders like Italy and New Zealand. Intensive orcharding and high-yielding varieties can improve productivity.
- Value Addition: Instead of merely exporting raw produce, investments in post-harvest processing, cold chains, and food processing parks can capture greater value.
- Expanding High-Value Crops: With growing global demand for organic products, J&K can capitalize on saffron, walnuts, and exotic berries, significantly increasing its horticulture sector’s current ₹10,000 crore value.
Challenges and Required Policy Measures
- Infrastructure and Investment Climate: Availability of land and essential utilities for businesses. Strengthening governance capacities to ensure faster approvals and investor-friendly policies.
- Private Sector Participation: Active encouragement of local entrepreneurs. Leveraging the New Industrial Development Scheme to attract long-term private investments.
- Skill Development and Capital Access: Establishing training centers for tourism, horticulture, and modern business practices. Improving access to credit and financial incentives for small and medium enterprises.
- Ecological and Sustainable Development: Stringent regulations to maintain ecological balance. Carrying capacity assessments for tourism hotspots to prevent overexploitation.
Conclusion
J&K is at the threshold of an economic resurgence, driven by targeted public investment, strategic infrastructure growth, and growing private-sector confidence. Tourism and horticulture can become the twin engines of this transformation, provided there is a strong policy framework ensuring sustainability, innovation, and ease of doing business.
