[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?
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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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