DR.RAMEEZ BHAT
As India strides towards 2047, marking 100 years of independence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has laid out a grand vision for a Viksit Bharat—a developed India. This vision encompasses economic growth, technological advancement, infrastructure development, and social inclusivity, positioning India as a global leader. For regions like Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), Modi’s blueprint offers hope for a future of progress, prosperity, and integration into the national mainstream, a shift that holds transformative potential for the region.
Jammu and Kashmir, which has long grappled with political instability, underdevelopment, and economic stagnation, is now at the forefront of national attention. Since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, the central government has prioritized the region’s development, ensuring that the people of J&K benefit from the same opportunities as the rest of the country. From infrastructure to healthcare, from industrial investment to digital connectivity, Modi’s vision for Viksit Bharat is particularly pertinent for J&K, offering a road map for sustainable growth and social welfare.
Infrastructure: Bridging the Gaps
A cornerstone of Modi’s Viksit Bharat is infrastructure development, and J&K stands to gain immensely from the central government’s focused efforts to improve connectivity. For decades, the region has suffered from poor road networks, limited rail connectivity, and inadequate air travel options, all of which stunted its economic potential. This is now changing rapidly. In 2021-22, the government completed a record 1,000 km of road construction under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) in J&K, connecting remote villages to major towns and cities. This unprecedented expansion is crucial for fostering economic growth in rural areas. Additionally, the long-pending Jammu Baramulla railway project, set to be completed by 2024, will revolutionize travel in the region. This 272 km railway line will not only link Kashmir with the rest of India but also reduce travel time drastically, opening up new economic opportunities by improving the flow of goods and services. Air connectivity has also seen a significant boost. The Srinagar Airport, which handled over 2.5 million passengers in 2022, is being upgraded, and there are plans for new airports in regions like Kishtwar. This will make travel more accessible for both tourists and business travelers, giving a much needed push to the local economy, especially in the tourism sector. These infrastructural projects are vital for the development of key sectors like tourism, agriculture, and handicrafts, all of which rely heavily on efficient transportation. With better roads, railways, and airports, J&K is set to become a hub of economic activity, attracting investment and creating jobs for its people.
Industrial Growth and Economic Diversification
The New Industrial Policy 2021, introduced by the central government, is one of the most significant efforts to attract investment into Jammu and Kashmir. With an allocation of ₹28,400 crore, this policy aims to create an enabling environment for industries to thrive, with a particular focus on sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and IT. As of 2023, investment proposals worth ₹25,000 crore have been received, demonstrating the growing interest of businesses in the region. The focus of government is not just on large-scale industries but also on promoting entrepreneurship and small businesses. This is particularly important for youth in J&K, many of whom have faced challenges in securing employment due to the region’s unstable past. The industrial push is expected to create over 4.5 lakh jobs in the coming years, providing much-needed economic relief to thousands of families.
Tourism, a sector that has been historically vital to J&K’s economy, is also witnessing a revival. In 2022, the region saw nearly 1.9 million tourists, a sharp rise from previous years. Enhanced security measures, improved infrastructure, and aggressive promotion of J&K as a safe and desirable destination have contributed to this surge. The central government’s focus on adventure, eco, and cultural tourism—especially in lesser-known destinations like Lolab Valley, Kishtwar, and Poonch—is expected to further boost this sector. With these initiatives, Jammu and Kashmir’s economy is gradually diversifying. Once heavily dependent on agriculture and handicrafts, the region is now poised to become an industrial hub, contributing significantly to India’s economic growth.
Digital India: Empowering Through Connectivity
As part of Modi’s Viksit Bharat, the Digital India initiative is a key driver of transformation, especially for Jammu and Kashmir. Historically, the region has lagged in terms of digital infrastructure, leaving vast sections of the population without access to reliable internet. But under the Bharat Net project, over 1,200 villages in J&K have now been connected to high-speed optical fiber networks, bringing digital services to even the most remote areas. This enhanced digital connectivity is revolutionizing education, healthcare, and governance in the region. Schools and colleges, many of which struggled with outdated infrastructure, are now able to leverage online learning platforms, ensuring that students receive a quality education. The roll-out of tele-medicine services is providing crucial healthcare access to rural areas, where medical facilities are often scarce. For the youth, digital literacy and skills development are critical for accessing new job opportunities. Under the government’s Skill India programs, thousands of young people in J&K are receiving training in sectors such as IT, healthcare, and hospitality. Startups are also beginning to emerge, particularly in the agritech and digital services sectors, providing new avenues for entrepreneurship. Through digital empowerment, young population in Jammu and Kashmir is being equipped with the tools they need to compete in a globalized economy, reducing reliance on traditional employment sectors and opening doors to new opportunities.
Social Welfare and Inclusivity: A People-Centric Approach
No development is complete without social inclusivity, and Modi’s Viksit Bharat places a strong emphasis on uplifting marginalized communities. In Jammu and Kashmir, several central schemes are being implemented to ensure that all sections of society benefit from the ongoing development efforts. The Ayushman Bharat scheme, which provides free healthcare to the economically weaker sections, has been a gamechanger in J&K. Over 10 lakh people in the region now have health insurance, granting them access to critical medical services. Additionally, new healthcare facilities are being established in remote areas, further improving healthcare access.
Women empowerment is another key focus. Programs like Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao are promoting education and financial independence for women, while Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are helping rural women become entrepreneurs. More than 65,000 women are now linked to SHGs, contributing to the local economy through small-scale businesses in sectors like handicrafts and agriculture.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Jammu and Kashmir
As India marches towards its centenary of independence, Jammu and Kashmir is positioned to be a key player in the country’s development journey. Modi’s vision for Viksit Bharat is breathing new life into the region, with unprecedented investments in infrastructure, industry, and digital connectivity. For the people of J&K, this vision is not just about economic growth but about creating a society that is inclusive, empowered, and self-sufficient. The road ahead may still have challenges, but with continued focus, investment, and the support of the central government, Jammu and Kashmir’s transformation into a vibrant, thriving part of Viksit Bharat is not just a possibility—it is an inevitability.
The author can be reached at bhatrameez3286@gmail.com
