Economy

Major industrial activities in J&K – II

Published

4 years ago

September 19, 2021

The informal sector is the part of an economy that is not registered with the relevant government authorities. The birth and growth of this sector is non-linear and follows no set pattern or the existing theoretical prediction. The empirical investigation following the developmental paths and trajectories of various developed and developing nations shows that birth, growth, decline and death hasn’t been the same. While the experiences of developed nations validate the eventual decline and end of the informal sector, the experiences of developing nations put the informal sector in an important position to usher in the process of industrial development.

In the developmental context of India, the informal sector has been an important source of providing sustenance to families, generating employment and meeting the local demand. Given the limited availability and access to public resources at the national level, the government policy and public sector have not been able to cater to the needs and demands of the people. As a coping strategy and a way out, people have found their ways towards the informal sector engagements. Over time the sector has rather shown an overall growth across the nation as against the prediction of the theories visualizing an end of this sector as one of the pre-requisites of development.

Agriculture for years has been a dominant economic activity in the region however mountain agriculture is not able to come out of subsistence to commercialization. As a result the returns from this sector have been low, pushing people out from it. Tourism has been another comparative advantageous economic venture in the region. Fragility and political instability has kept this sector from flourishing. As a result, people in J&K have steadily been pushed into the informal sector.

In Jammu and Kashmir, the trend corresponds to the national level evidence. The informal sector in the region has also registered growth over time as is validated by various national level data-sets including the NSSO and PLFS. Agriculture for years has been a dominant economic activity in the region however mountain agriculture is not able to come out of subsistence to commercialization. As a result, the returns from this sector have been low, pushing people out from it. Tourism has been another comparative advantageous economic venture in the region. Fragility and political instability have kept this sector from flourishing. As a result, people in J&K have steadily been pushed into the informal sector.

The Table ranks the dominant activities in the informal sector in Jammu and Kashmir as per the latest data availability. The ascendancy of these units points to their viability as low risk and viable profit ventures. Like the formal sector, the informal sector too mainly consists of need-based units. Most of the units deal in the retail sale of household perishable goods. These units which are in the form of shop establishments are found in all the localities of the region across rural and urban belts.

There is always business viability associated with these types of ventures. People from the households prefer to buy groceries from the nearest possible retailer and thus the normal profit is the least and assured return promised by these types of businesses. Tailoring activities rank just next. Given the changing seasons in Jammu and Kashmir and the distinct clothing style of both men and women, they prefer to stitch their clothes than buying ready-made and at the same time need different fabrics across the seasons. The investment in these ventures is small and can be household-based too. At the same time, this sector has the potential to empower women through household-based flexible employment.

Being a consumer economy, the demand for all types of goods is very high in the region across the year, opening scope for the transportation industry. Over time there has been the development of the trend among the locals to invest in the freight transportation sector at the individual level. Though very popular among the lower-middle-class sector it has come to witness some decline in recent times due to a number of natural disasters and political fragility shocks. The current viability to invest in the sector is not too high however a huge number of existing informal sector participants is involved in this business activity.

Another related sector ranks just next. Despite the loss faced by the tourism sector the demand for Jammu and Kashmir tourism still exists in the country and across the globe. As a result, the taxi service in the region has been yet another promising venture in the informal sector. The use of taxi services has been rather limited among the people and startups like Kehwa and Jugmu cabs for the general public have just begun.

To begin with, the current major potential lies in the necessity-based industrial ventures. Based on the level of investment in hand both formal and informal sector are equally viable. If given proper consideration based on entrepreneurial instincts and government support, the businesses mentioned in formal and informal sector are low risk ventures.

The development of the beauty industry in the region appeared late but grew quick. Women especially have been involved in this sector. Opening and growth of the beauty parlours and salons can be seen spanning across the lengths and breadths of the region. This sector has especially shown growth in the region. Many women have opened these ventures inside their household premises making their operation flexible and demand localized. The local embroidery styles including hand Tilla and Aari are very famous across the globe. Families have been involved in these skill laden trades and have been passing on the same.

Both the demand and supply are high and being skill-based this sector always promises returns to the participants. The beginning of restaurant and café culture is equally novel in the region, the growth equally rapid! This sector has lately been growing and receiving an immense response, especially from the youth population. The startups in this industry have been doing well and the potential still exists for further diversification.

The construction and allied industry in Jammu and Kashmir, especially the Kashmir region has always had high-end potential given the local demand. As a result, the informal sector has shown some considerable growth in the manufacturing, production and sale of items corresponding to this sector. From the wood-based requirements to furniture and flooring and beyond the potential of this sector is yet to be explored completely. Given the innovations, people at the micro and household level can get involved in the customization of these items and expect a genuine profit and growth of the business over time.

From the analysis of both the formal and informal sectors in Jammu and Kashmir, it can be seen that the scope and potential of industrialization in the region is very high but specific. To begin with, the current major potential lies in the necessity-based industrial ventures. Based on the level of investment in hand both formal and informal sectors are equally viable. If given proper consideration based on entrepreneurial instincts and government support, the businesses mentioned in the formal and informal sectors are low-risk ventures. The future policymaking should be informed about the specific business potential in the region and the industrial policy push can be given based on these considerations.

Specialising in the industrial process of J&K, the author is a Senior Research Fellow in the University of Kashmir’s Economics Department. She can be reached at dhaarmehak@gmail.com

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Economy

Editorial | J&K Budget 2025-26 – A Balancing Act

Published

2 months ago

March 8, 2025

BK Editor

Fiscal Constraints Amidst Development Aspirations

J&K Budget 2025-26

Preparing the maiden budget for Jammu and Kashmir as the head of an elected government of a state downgraded to a UT and remaining under central rule without an elected government for more than seven years with overwhelming challenges was an arduous task for Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.

While his speech paints a hopeful picture of a “new and prosperous” J&K, a closer look reveals a delicate balancing act necessitated by fiscal realities and the people’s aspirations: high hopes with vivid memories of recent election promises.

As Omar Abdullah seeks to lay the foundation for ‘long-term growth, stability, and self-reliance’ of J&K, he has to walk a tightrope to keep the state’s mounting debt under control. However, his prudent management to keep the fiscal deficit under leash has come at a cost: a leaner budget. This year’s budget allocation of Rs 1.12 lakh crore is Rs 6080 crore or 5% less than last year’s budget announcement of Rs 1.18 lakh crore. The reduction in budget allocation, along with 4-5% inflation, raises concerns about the government’s ability to realise its ambitious development goals fully.

The CM’s speech, though, outlines a comprehensive vision, touching upon crucial sectors like rural development, agriculture, tourism, and industry. But translating these aspirations into tangible outcomes requires substantial financial investment. Moreover, the pervasive challenge of inflation adds another layer of complexity. Rising prices erode purchasing power, making it harder to stretch limited budgetary resources.

As Omar Abdullah seeks to lay the foundation for ‘long-term growth, stability, and self-reliance’ of J&K, he has to walk a tightrope to keep the state’s mounting debt under control. However, his prudent management to keep the fiscal deficit under leash has come at a cost: a leaner budget. This year’s budget allocation of Rs 1.12 lakh crore is Rs 6080 crore or 5% less than last year’s budget announcement of Rs 1.18 lakh crore.

The emphasis on fiscal prudence, curbing non-priority spending, and enhancing revenue collection is understandable, given J&K’s historical fiscal stress. However, austerity measures must be carefully calibrated to avoid stifling economic growth and hindering essential public services, especially when inflation is already squeezing household budgets.

The budget’s focus on digital governance and healthcare accessibility is welcome. Initiatives like the SEHAT app and the expansion of digital services have the potential to improve efficiency and transparency. Yet, the question remains: are the allocated funds sufficient to ensure the effective implementation of these programs, particularly when the real cost of implementation is escalating due to inflation?

The agricultural sector, a cornerstone of J&K’s economy, receives significant attention. The success of the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP) will be crucial in boosting farmer incomes and creating employment opportunities. The allocation to HADP has been reduced Rs 800 crore from last year’s 1000 crore plus. However, the program’s impact will depend on the timely disbursement of funds and effective implementation, and whether the farmers can see real increases in their income, that outpace the rising cost of goods.

Similarly, the ambitious plans for tourism development require substantial investment in infrastructure and marketing. While the government’s efforts to promote offbeat destinations and sustainable tourism are laudable, the sector’s growth will depend on attracting private investment and addressing critical challenges like sustainability and waste management, while also dealing with rising operational costs due to inflation.

Some headline-making announcements like free rides for women in public transport and 200 free units of solarised power for AAY population fail to impress the general public. The argument is J&K has almost non-existent public transport. About 850 public buses with a passenger capacity of 35,000 people do not even suffice the transport needs of the 1% of the 1.2 crore population of J&K. The 200 e-buses for two metro capital cities, announced in last year’s budget, failed to take route. CM has repeated the announcement this year.

The government’s commitment to empowering MSMEs and startups is also noteworthy. However, ensuring access to finance and creating a conducive business environment will be essential for fostering entrepreneurship, and this becomes more difficult when inflation creates financial uncertainty. In last year’s budget, a good amount was announced under Youth Startup and Seed Capital Schemes but both schemes failed to take off.

Also, the budget is unable to address the burgeoning unemployment that, as per some private surveys, has reached 32%.

Whatever the allocations, the success of this budget will be now judged by its ability to deliver tangible benefits to the people of J&K. While the government’s efforts to reduce the fiscal deficit are commendable, it must also prioritize investments that will drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for all citizens, while also mitigating the effects of inflation.

The challenge lies in navigating fiscal constraints and inflationary pressures while maintaining momentum on the development path. This budget sets the stage for a critical year ahead, one that will test the Omar Abdullah government’s ability to balance its books and deliver on its promises, in a climate of rising prices.

Economy

SKUAST-K to hold mega Science Summit on Aug 23-24

Published

9 months ago

August 21, 2024

BK Editor

Srinagar, Aug 21: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir is hosting a mega first-of-its-kind science summit ‘Kashmir Science Vision-2024’ on August 23-24 at Shalimar campus. The event is expected to bring together leading scientists, researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs and scholars to discuss and develop science and technology policy for the sustainable future of Jammu and Kashmir with a focus on helping the UT to emerge as a model for Viksit Bharat@2047.

The Kashmir Science Vision Summit will feature a dynamic range of keynote lectures, panel discussions and brainstorming sessions.

These discussions will focus on key areas of regional development like Scientific Innovations & Entrepreneurial Opportunities for exploring how technology can be harnessed to drive socio-economic growth and create new business opportunities, Biomedical & New-Age Sciences for advancing healthcare through innovative medical sciences and improving health outcomes for the region’s residents. Food Security & Sustainability for promoting sustainable agricultural practices to ensure long-term food security and environmental health, Biodiversity Conservation & Disaster Management for developing strategies to protect the region’s unique ecosystems and mitigate the impact of natural disasters will also feature in the two-day summit.

The summit aims to foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders to ensure that scientific advancements translate into meaningful benefits for Jammu and Kashmir.

Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai said the summit will serve as a catalyst for the region’s sustainable development and strategic growth. “It will be remembered as the spark that ignited science and technology-led future-ready Jammu & Kashmir,” he added.

Pertinent to mention, SKUAST-K is a premier institution dedicated to advancing agricultural sciences and technology. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, the university plays a pivotal role in fostering sustainable development and technological progress in the region.

Trade

Lenskart enters Kashmir market, opens shop at Regal Chowk

Published

1 year ago

January 27, 2024

BK Editor

Srinagar: Lenskart, India’s leading eyewear brand, has forayed into the Kashmir valley with the opening of its first outlet at Regal Chowk in Srinagar city. This expansion marks a significant milestone for Lenskart as it continues its mission to provide vision correction solutions to every individual across the country and beyond.

With seven successful stores already established in J&K UT’s Jammu city and plans underway for another outlet in Sanat Nagar, Srinagar, Lenskart aims to extend its presence to every nook and corner of Srinagar city.

“We have plans to expand our reach into other districts of Kashmir soon, ensuring accessibility to quality eyewear products and services for all residents,” said Dr Mohammad Mutaher Zerger, who heads Lenskart’s Portfolio and Franchisee Business Divisions.

Dr Mutaher is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in franchise management. Having previously served at McDonald’s, the new head of franchise at Lenskart brings valuable expertise in expansion strategies and operational excellence. “We are dedicated to providing state-of-the-art sophistication in eyewear technology, coupled with unparalleled customer service,” he added.

Lenskart’s commitment to accessibility and affordability is reflected in its offerings, including the innovative Buy One Get One (BOGO) facility available at all Lenskart outlets and online. Additionally, the brand provides complimentary eye testing facilities, ensuring that customers receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs.

Lenskart Founder, Shark Piyush Bansal’s Vision is to give correction-less vision to the entire India.

In line with its dedication to innovation and excellence, Lenskart recently inaugurated a cutting-edge robotic factory in Bhiwandi, where lens production and fittings are carried out with precision and efficiency. This advanced facility underscores Lenskart’s commitment to leveraging technology to deliver superior-quality products to its customers.

With a network of 1800 stores across India and a growing presence in international markets such as Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, and the UAE, Lenskart is poised for further expansion into other countries in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions.

Lenskart’s entry into Kashmir signifies not only its commitment to providing vision correction solutions but also its dedication to empowering individuals with the gift of clear vision, enabling them to lead more fulfilling lives.