The state of Jammu and Kashmir is one of the least developed states of India. It exhibits all the characteristics of an underdeveloped economy, viz. low per capita income, poor quality of life, widespread unemployment, fiscal imbalance and excessive reliance on the Indian Union.
In the past, numerous initiatives were taken to transform the economic landscape of the state through industrialization. However, the balance-sheet of shortcomings and achievements of industrialization so far presents a rather gloomy picture. Given a situation like this, an earnest attempt has been made in this book to address the following questions: (a) How has the state faired in terms of industrialization so far? (b) What is the state of business environment in the state? (c) What is the industrial potential of the state and where does it lie? (d) What factors are inhibiting the growth of industrial sectors? and (e) What specific strategies are needed to achieve meaningful industrial development?
No detailed study has been made so far to address the above questions. The present book is an attempt to fill this vacuum. The book, it is hoped, will make a valuable addition to the existing body of literature on industrial development. It provides important insights into the challenges, opportunities and the strategies necessary to achieve sustainable industrial development of the strategically located state of Jammu and Kashmir of the Indian union. The policy formulations offered in this book, if implemented, will to go a long way in placing the state on a high growth trajectory. |
