[Answered] With Jammu and Kashmir witnessing increasing private-sector interest, discuss the potential of tourism and horticulture in driving economic transformation in the region. What policy measures are needed to sustain and accelerate this growth?
Red Book
Red Book

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.

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