by: Khawaja Kabir Ahmed
The entire state of Jammu and Kashmir is a land of natural beauty, vast water resources and fertile lands. Rivers flowing from high mountains, lush valleys, dense forests and picturesque landscapes make this region one of the most beautiful regions in the world. Nature has endowed this land with resources that can lead any society to economic prosperity. But despite this, a bitter reality, especially in the Pakistan-administered state of Jammu and Kashmir, is that the people here are facing economic difficulties, unemployment and lack of basic amenities.
This contradiction raises a fundamental question: if a region is rich in resources, why are its people deprived?
The rivers of Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir have immense potential to generate hydroelectric power. Large hydropower projects are proof that this region is of great importance in the field of energy. But it has often been seen that a large part of the wealth generated from these resources is used elsewhere instead of strengthening the local economy, while the local population, despite the fact that electricity has become cheaper as a result of the civil rights movement, does not have full access to electricity and basic amenities.
Similarly, if we look at the tourism sector, this region of Jammu and Kashmir has the potential to attract tourists from all over the world due to its natural beauty. If this sector is developed on modern grounds, tourism infrastructure is improved and local people are given a central role in this industry, tourism can become a source of employment for millions of people. But the development of this sector often does not reach its full potential due to lack of planning and lack of continuity of policies.
Agriculture and horticulture are also important parts of the economy of this region. Apples, walnuts, honey and other agricultural products can not only support the local economy but can also earn valuable foreign exchange for the region through exports. However, modern agricultural technology, better market access and lack of government support often become obstacles in this path.
Another important aspect of the region’s economy is the increasing unemployment of youth. Despite getting an education, many youth become frustrated due to the lack of suitable employment opportunities. If organized programs are started in the fields of technology, IT, freelancing and small business, the youth can not only become self-sufficient but can also play an important role in the economy of the region.
All these facts indicate that the problem is not the lack of resources but their fair and effective use. If the center of economic policies is made the welfare of the people, a large part of the resource income is spent on local development and transparent governance is ensured, then this region can become a strong and self-sufficient region economically.
It is a fact that the real development of any region is possible when the people there are able to benefit from their resources and they have equal opportunities for development. The people of this region also deserve the same right.
If public welfare, transparent governance, and equitable use of local resources are made the basic principles of future policies, the day is not far when this region can become not only a place of natural beauty but also an example of economic prosperity. Because the real strength of any land is not its resources, but its informed, talented, and dignified people.
***
Share this content:
