For the last few years, J&K government is tabling an Economic Survey in the state legislature which offers key details about the overall growth. Kashmir Life is publishing the survey in parts for the benefit of its readers.
The Jammu and Kashmir state is a border State which shares international border with Pakistan & China. The Line of Control on Pakistan side divides the state which turns one part as ‘J&K’ and the other part as ‘POK’. The state is located mostly in the Himalayan mountain range. It shares border with states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. The State has mostly a rugged terrain due to which several parts of it remain partly connected. The state has three distinct parts namely 1) Jammu 2) Kashmir and 3) Ladakh. The temperature in the three parts differ drastically. Kashmir is connected by road with Jammu which passes through Pir panchal mountainous range. The road remains closed during rainy season and snowfall during winter. Lack of all weather permanent connectivity has put the valley to a disadvantageous position as remoteness from railhead in Jammu, makes cost of road and air transportation dearer which is the main bottleneck in the spread of industrialization in most of the districts of the state. The drastic drop in the temperature during winter in the areas of Ladakh and Kashmir valley almost halts economic activities in these parts. Jammu has a sub-tropical climate zone and its climate coincides with the climate of Delhi. The state has a cultivable area of 8.58 lacs hectares. The economy of the state is predominantly agricultural. The state of J&K offers a challenge to planners as well as administrators in tackling the manifold problems associated with the economic backwardness of the state.
Inclusivity and equity of the growth process along with its sustainability has to be the most defining paradigm of the developmental efforts. While imperatives of high level of growth are well understood, distributive aspect of the growth is also important. In the context of the obtaining circumstances in the state, the challenge of ensuring participatory and balanced regional development becomes extremely critical.
Geographic and Socio-Economic Profile of J&K
Jammu and Kashmir, situated between 320 17′ N and 360 58′ N latitudes and 730 26′E and 800 30′ E longitudes, constitutes the northern most extremity of India. The Total area of Jammu and Kashmir is 222236 sq. Km of which 78114 sq. Km is under illegal occupation of Pakistan and 37555 sq. Km under China. In addition 5180 sq. Km area of J&K was illegally ceded to China by Pakistan. J&K is the 6th largest state of India occupying 6.76% of the country’s geographical area. The state has abundant water resources in view of its blessed riverine geography. The state is surrounded by mountains except in the South-West side. A major portion of the state’s terrain is hilly and its height from sea level varies from 3000 feet to 22740 feet. The state has road, and air links with rest of the country through South making it accessible from the South only. The rail link is upto Udhampur only.
Population
The state occupies 19thrank in population, with 125.41 lakh souls as per 2011 census. The state has three distinct regions, viz. the Kashmir, Jammu and Ladakh comprising of 22 districts. Each region has a specific resource base. The state is further divided among 82 Tehsils, 86 towns and 6551 villages as per census, 2011. Administratively, the districts are divided into blocks for development purposes. There are 320 community development blocks in the state.
Population Density
As per 2011 census, the population density in the state is 124 persons per sq. km of area as against density of 382 persons per sq. Km in India. The state ranks 8th among states/ UTs of the country in thin density of population. In fact the most marked characteristic feature of the State, is low density of population. The low densities in many districts of the State are attributable to the nature of their terrain.
Sex Ratio
Sex ratio of 889 females per thousand males, places J&K at 29th rank in the country. Sex ratio of the country is 943 females per thousand males as per 2011 census. The low sex ratio of females to males is alarming and requires attention of all the sections of the society to give heed to “Beti Bachao” slogan pioneered by the Hon’ble Prime Minister.
Literacy
As per Census 2011, literacy rate of the state is 68.74% with 78.26% male literates and 58.01% female literates. These figures show signs of improvement in the literacy when compared with the literate population of 2001 census. The overall literacy rate improved by 13.22 percentage points. In comparison to male literacy, female literacy has improved at a faster rate i.e. against 11.66 percentage points in male literacy female literacy increased by 15.01 percentage points. At all- India census-2011 determined 74.04% population as literates with 82.14% (male literate population) and 65.46% (female literate population). With the improvement in the literate population of the state, the gender gap has also reduced to 20.25% in 2011 as against 23.60% in 2001. It is pertinent to mention that literacy rate is derived after excluding the children in the age group of 0-6 years, which are by the definition of census treated as illiterate.
Urbanization
The percentage of urban population to total population was 27.37 percent in 2011 compared to 24.81 percent in 2001 in the state. Among all districts, Srinagar ranks first with 98.6 percent urban population followed by Jammu district with 50 percent urban population. Ramban district with 4.16 percent of urban population followed by Shopian with 6.15 percent are the least urbanized districts. As per Census 2011, there are 86 statutory towns in the State. The State is an important tourist hub both for national and international travelers with several holy pilgrim centres, rivers, and hills.
Climate
The climate of the state varies from sub tropical in Jammu plains to semi-arctic cold in Ladakh with Kashmir and Jammu mountainous tracks having temperate climatic conditions. The average annual rainfall also varies from region to region with 92.6 mm in Leh, 650.5 mm in Srinagar and 1115.9 mm in Jammu. A large part of the state forms part of the Himalayan Mountains. The state is geologically constituted of rocks varying from the oldest period of the earth’s history to the youngest present day river and lake deposits.
Macro Economic Aggregates
Gross State Domestic Product at constant (2004-05) prices for the year 2014-15 is estimated at Rs. 45126.30 crores (Advance Estimates) as against Rs. 45847.15 crores for the year 2013-14 (1st Revised Estimates) registering a negative growth of -1.57% over the previous year. During 2012-13 and 2013-14, GSDP grew at 5.34% (2nd Revised Estimates) and 5.63% (1st Revised Estimates) respectively.
The State economy is expected to register growth of 0.40% (advanced estimates) at current prices during 2014-15 as compared to 13.85% in 2013-14 (1st Revised estimates) and 12.81% in 2012-13 (2nd Revised Estimates). At Constant (2004-05) Prices growth in GSDP of J&K State is expected to register a negative growth of -1.57% during the year 2014-15 as compared to 5.63% during 2013-14. The lesser growth rate during 2014-15 is mainly attributed to floods of September, 2014, which has shattered the economy of the state affecting particularly Kashmir valley.
At constant (2004-05) prices, the growth in Agriculture sector (Agriculture & Livestock only) is likely to decelerate to -16.23% (advanced estimates) in the year 2014-15 as compared to 6.25% in the year 2013-14 (1st Revised estimates) while as the Agriculture & the allied sectors which includes Agriculture & Live Stock, Fisheries, and Forestry & Logging sectors, is likely to decelerate to -14.9% as compared to positive growth of 5.14% in the year 2013-14(1st Revised Estimates).
At constant(2004-05) prices, Forestry & Logging sector is likely to decelerate to (-) 8.00% as compared to -0.15% during 2013-14 while as Fishing is expected to decelerate at -9.96% as compared to 0.15% during 2013-14.
At Constant (2004-05) Prices, the industry is likely to grow at 1.47% during the year 2014-15(A.E) as compared to 7.08% in the year 2013-14(1R).
Among the sub sectors, Manufacturing expects a growth rate of 0.23%, Construction 2.99% while as Electricity, Gas & Water Supply 5.95% during 2014-5(A.E). The corresponding figures for these subsectors for the year 2013-14 (1st Revised Estimates) were 6.8%, 4.81% and 13.84% respectively.
At constant (2004-05) prices, Service sector, which is the major contributor to the State economy, is likely to grow at 1.96% (advance estimates) as compared to 5.17% during the current year 2014-15 as compared to 5.17% during 2013-14.
The Sectoral composition of the State income has undergone considerable changes over a period of time. Over the last five decades, the share of Primary sector has declined steadily from 28.16% in 2004-05 to 17.83% in 2014-15(AE)and the share of
Secondary sector has declined from 28.13% in 2004-05 to 25.53% in 2014-15 (advance estimates), while as the share of Services sector has substantially increased from 43.71% in 2004-05 to 56.64% (A.E) in 2014-15.
State Finances
Fiscal deficit for 2013-14 has been calculated at 5.2%.
The state has continued to maintain revenue surplus, though its quantum decreased in 2013-14 by Rs. 1030 crore from the surplus of Rs 1100 crore in 2012-13.
The state’s own revenue has increased by 7.54 % from Rs 5833 crore in 2012-13 to Rs. 6273 crore in 2013-14.
The central devolutions including States share in Central Taxes and Duties taken together constituted on an average 73.10 per cent of the total revenue receipts of the state during the period 2002-2013 and 66.30 % in 2013-14. These resources transferred by the Central Government financed on an average 65.2 per cent of the total expenditure during the period 2002-13, indicating a marginal decline of 6.80 % in the State’s dependence on transfer of central resources.
NITI Aayog
The replacement of Planning Commission of India by NITI Aayog and the acceptance of the 14th Finance Commission recommendations by Government of India will have long term ramifications for the planning process in the State. The State Government is expected to be in a better position to decide its developmental priorities. Towards this end, the State Government will endeavour to move away from the artificial differentiation on the basis of plan and non-plan activities.
Under the new frame work, State Govt. will be preparing a Revenue Expenditure Budget and Capital Expenditure Budget. While the Finance Department will be responsible for the Revenue Expenditure Budget, the State Planning & Development Department will have the responsibility of the Capital Expenditure Budget and its monitoring. Under the restructured system of devolutions, State Govt. has proposed a Capital Expenditure Budget of Rs.9682 crore for the year 2015-16. The Revenue Expenditure Budget will also take over the Revenue liabilities of Plan in the year 2015-16. The broad break-up of the proposed Capital Expenditure Budget 2015-16 is as under:
| Table No 1 | (Rs. in crore) | ||
| Item of Expenditure | State Sector | District sector | Total |
| Central Component | 4111.12 | 1888.88 | 6000.00 |
| State Share for CSS | 235.59 | 340.60 | 576.19 |
| State Specific Requirements | 2098.99 | 307.66 | 2406.65 |
| Negotiated Loan | 331.42 | 368.58 | 700.00 |
| Total | 6777.12 | 2905.72 | 9682.84 |
6th Economic Census
As per the Quick Manual Results of Sixth EC 2013 there are 507372 establishments located in J&K engaged in different economic activities other than crop production, plantation, public administration, defence and compulsory social security. Out of which 304207 establishments constituting 59.96% are in rural J&K and remaining 40.04% with 203165 establishments in urban areas. Sixth EC categorized the establishments in 3 groups i.e,(i) establishments outside household with fixed structure ii) Establishments outside household without fixed structure and iii) Establishments inside household. Establishments with fixed structure account for 87.27% comprising of 69.90% establishments outside household with fixed structure and 17.37% inside household. Establishments outside household without fixed structure amount to 12.73% at the state level.In rural areas 64.67% establishments are operating outside household with fixed structure, 22.93% establishments are located inside house-hold and 12.40% establishments are operating outside household without fixed structure. The corresponding figures in percentage terms in urban areas are 77.73%, 9.04% and 13.23% respectively.
As per provisional results the number of handicraft/handloom establishments in J&K is 60397 with 46054 (76.25 %) rural and 14343 (23.75%) urban establishments. These establishments constitute 11.9% of total number of establishments in the state. The %age of handicraft/ handloom establishments is 15.14 %( rural) and 7.06% (urban) with respect to total number of establishments in the respective areas.
Banking
A well structured and efficient network of financial institutions helps to boost the economic growth. These financial institutions provide credit to all sections of the society and for infrastructure projects at reasonable rates.
As on 30-09-2014, 1893 branches of scheduled commercial banks, co-operative banks and state financial corporation (SFC) were in operation in J&K. The number of branches has risen by 15.57% over 31-03-2013.
With the increase in the branch network over the years, there has been notable improvement in the banking services. Dependence per bank branch reduced substantially both geographically as well as demographically. On an average 1 bank branch is available per 7 thousand people as on 30-09-2014where as that for India, it is 10 thousand persons as on 31-03-2013. More importantly, the coverage of area per bank is declining year by year. During the year 2014-15 (September, 2014) one branch was available per 53.56 Sq. kms. This indicator is 30.26 sq. km for India during the reference period 31-03-2013.
The credit is a catalyst that lubricates the process to accelerate the development of the economy. Apart from farm and non-farm sectors, industrialization, business and service segments require adequate credit supply. As on 30-09-2014 gross bank credit stood at Rs 34398.97 crore as compared to Rs 23542.32 crore for 2012-13 showing robust growth of 46.12% over previous year 2012-13.
As against Rs. 64479.70 crore ending 2012-13, deposits of financial institutions as on 30-09-2014 stood at Rs.72767.21 crore, posting an increase of 12.85% over previous year (2012-13).
Credit-deposit ratio is an impressive indicator utilized for measuring the business performance of banks. Higher growth in advances i.e., 46.12% and lower growth in deposits (12.85%) improved the CDR from 36.51% as on March, 2013 to 47.27% ending September, 2014.
Agriculture
Agriculture as we know plays a very prominent role for development of economy of J&K State. Around 70% of the population in the State get livelihood directly or indirectly from Agriculture and allied Sectors. The State comprises of three regions namely Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh having distinct geographical outlook and agro climatic zones. Each zone having its own characteristics that largely determines the cropping pattern and productivity of crops. Paddy is the main crop of Kashmir, followed by maize, oilseeds, pulses, vegetables, fodder and wheat. In Jammu region, wheat is the predominant crop followed by maize, paddy, pulses, oilseeds, fodder, vegetables and other crops while in Ladakh, barley is the major cereal crop followed by wheat. State also has the honour of being amongst the world’s few places where quality saffron is cultivated. Pampore Tehsil of District Pulwama, which is situated at a distance of 17 kilometres from Srinagar, is famous for its high grade saffron in the world. Saffron is also grown, though on a limited scale in Kishtwar district of Jammu region. Saffron crop is being introduced in temperate areas of other districts as well and significant success has been reported from some areas of Doda and Udhampur districts. Due to the implementation of Saffron Mission interventions it has been possible for the state to rejuvenate the old less productive Saffron zones and it has been experienced that the new corm suggested has benefited the farmers by way of increased production leading to increase in their earnings and has created an effect of attraction for undertaking the farm business management for development of saffron.
For enhancing agricultural productivity on sustainable basis, improving Seed Replacement Rate (SRR) is an important component. Department of Agriculture has registered a 33% SRR of rice in Kashmir valley and 26.32% in Jammu Division. SRR in respect of maize was observed at 24% in Kashmir and 32.10% in Jammu Division. SRR in respect of Fodder is anticipated at 32% and 35% during Rabi Season in Kashmir and Jammu respectively.
An estimation made by the Directorate of Agriculture Jammu, food grain requirement for the State works out to 25 lac MT per annum as against the tentative production of about 20.65 Lac MT during 2013-14.. Therefore the State faces a deficiency of 4.35 Lac MT of food grains which is provided by the CAPD through the rationing system. During the year 2014-15 food production got reduced to 17.42 lac MT due to devastating floods in the State.
Horticulture
J&K State is well known for its horticultural produce both in India and abroad. The state offers good scope for cultivation of horticultural crops, covering a variety of temperate fruits like apple, pear, peach, plum, apricot, almond, cherry and sub tropical fruits like mango, guava, citrus litchi, phalsa and Berete. Besides, medicinal and aromatic plants, floriculture, mushroom, plantation crops and vegetables are cultivated in the state. Apart from this, well known spices like saffron and black Zeera are also cultivated in some pockets of the state. As a result, there is a perceptible change in the concept of horticulture development in the state. There are around 7 lakh families comprising of about 33 lakh people which are directly or indirectly associated with horticulture. Horticulture development is one of the thrust areas in agriculture and a number of programmes have been implemented in the past, resulting in the generation of higher incomes in the rural areas, thereby improving the quality of life in villages. Looking to the specie-wise details of area figures under fruit for the year 2013-14, it is observed that largest area of 45.34% (161364 hectares) is occupied by apple out of total area of 355921 hectares under fruit. Walnut is the next major fruit occupying 26.86% in the overall area under fruit.
Livestock
Integrated Sample Survey (2011-12) revealed that total livestock population of Jammu region had demonstrated an increase of 8.40% over the year 2009-10 and reached to 78.908 lakhs from 72.79 lakhs. Kashmir region also witnessed an increase of 4.63% as livestock population had reached to 74.994 lakhs from 71.67 lakhs. However, in Ladakh region livestock population slipped by 1.44% from 6.60 lakhs to 6.505 lakhs during the same period.
Fisheries
Fisheries sector occupies a very important place in the socio-economic development of the state. It has been recognized as a powerful income and employment source of cheap and nutritious food, besides being a source of livelihood for a large section of economically backward population of the country. The total fishermen population in the State as per livestock census 2003 was around 31,000. It is presently estimated at 93000. The 27781 Km. length of rivers/streams facilitate farming of more than 40 million tonnes of fish. As against this, the State has only 0.07 lakh hectares under reservoir area. There is a big gap between the demand and supply of fish. Fish is a valuable element of diet of the local people throughout the year. There is also a demand for fish from the defense personnel and tourists. There are 1248 lakes including water bodies and water is spread into 0.40 lac hectares of area which gives an indication of the potential for fisheries in the State.
Irrigation
Irrigation is the artificial application of water to the land or soil. Irrigation is an essential input of agriculture and is practiced in all parts of the world where rainfall does not provide enough ground moisture. In areas of irregular rainfall, irrigation is used during dry spells to ensure harvests and to increase crop yields. Irrigation has greatly expanded the amount of arable land and the production of food throughout the world. India has made impressive gains in the last 30 years, increasing its irrigated land by more than 50 percent.
The net area sown in the state during 2013-14 was 741 thousand hectares whereas the gross area sown (total area sown under different crops) was 1160 thousand hectares. The mode of irrigating the crops mainly used is the canals. About 89 per cent of the net area irrigated is irrigated through canals while tanks, tube wells and other means are also used.
Floriculture
Floriculture has a vast scope and potential in the valley, which is evident from the fact that during the year 1996, an area of 80 Ha was under flower cultivation in J&K, which has currently expanded to the level of 350 Ha, with an annual turnover of about Rs.1350 lacs. Further, more than 1500 youth are directly engaged under commercial floriculture sector in Kashmir Division. Moreover, an area of about 9.297 Hac. has been covered under protected cultivation, in private sector by raising Tubular Structure Poly Houses; High Tech Poly Houses, Shade Net Houses, etc. Development of commercial floriculture has been assigned a top priority by the Government, under Technology Mission and RKVY, as it holds a tremendous potential for employment generation.
Forests
Jammu and Kashmir has a total forest cover of 20230 Sq km (20.23 lakh hectares) accounting for 19.95% of the total Geographical area of 101387 Sq km on this side of line of control. All India figures indicate a percentage of 24.47% geographical area under forests. Out of the total forest area of 20230 Sq km, the area under reserved forests is 2551 Sq km, protected forest is 17463 Sq km and the rest 36 Sq km is unclassified. Out of the total forest area, 12066 Sq km are in Jammu Region, followed by Kashmir Region with 8128 Sq km and Ladakh Region with only 36 Sq km. Kashmir Region has 40.17%, Jammu Region has 59.64%, while Ladakh Region has 0.17% area under forest cover. Forests cover 48 percent of the total geographical area of the State (excluding Ladakh region) which is above the national average of 24.47 percent. It is, however, less than the norm of National Forest Policy, 1988, which provides forest cover of one third of total geographical area (20% for plains and 66% for hilly areas). The specie-wise area under forests has remained stagnated during last few years. An area of 1075 Sq km is under Deodar constituting 5.31% of the total forest area. 1825 Sq km are under Chir having 9.02% share, 1969 Sq km are under Kail which accounts for 9.74%, 3401 Sq km are under Fir, representing 16.81%. Largest area of 10075 Sq km falls under other categories having a share of 49.8%. Thus, 18345 Sq km are under coniferous (Soft wood). Non coniferous (hard wood) covers 1885 Sq km claiming 9.32% of total forest area. An area of 1962 Sq km is covered by Rakh and wild life reserves.
Industry
The Industries Sector is now playing its due role in the economic development of the State and in generating employment opportunities for the unemployed youth.. Industries sector contributes 25.87% to GSDP of State at constant 2004-05 prices as per Advance estimates for the year 2014-15(A). The State has 53 existing industrial estates spread over an area of 31335Kanals of land as per position ending November, 2014.
The J&K State under the “Make in India” programme is looking forward to attract domestic investors to invest in the State. “Ease of Doing Business” has rightly been recognized as the most important factor in achieving the goal of “Make in India”. The State Government has initiated the process for playing its role as the interface of enterprises
The existing State Industrial Policy is expiring on 31st March, 2015 and the new Policy is going to come into effect from 1st April 2015. Committee constituted for drafting the New Industrial Policy has been properly sensitized to deliberate on the issue of easing out the procedures for the entrepreneurs/ industrialists to invest in the State. The Government is simultaneously working on drafting Trade Policy and Manufacturing and Export strategies of the State.
Handicrafts
Handicraft activities occupy an important position in the economic structure of J&K State. Being environment friendly, these activities are best suited to the state as they are more labour intensive and less capital intensive in nature, therefore having scope for employment generation at a large scale. The Kashmir handicraft products have earned worldwide fame for their attractive designs, functional utility and high quality craftsmanship. In absence of other manufacturing industries in the state, handicrafts remained a key economic activity from time immemorial. The artistic imagination and craftsmanship of the Artisans reflected through a wide range of products, has delighted the connoisseurs world over for centuries. Crafts like Shawls, Crewel, Namdha, Chain Stitch, Wood Carving, Papier Machie, Costume Jewellery, Kani Shawls and the Carpets hold a significant share in the overall production and export of the State. Silken carpets in particular constitute a specialty having no parallel in quality and design at national level and, therefore, occupy an important position in the international market. The handicraft sector of the state has great contribution towards foreign exchange earnings to the state and country in particular. Around 8500 persons are trained annually through 553 training centres in the state.
The department also promotes sale of handicraft goods by organizing expos/exhibition/craft bazaars within and outside the state. It also organizes exhibition at international level annually. During the year 2014-15, the department has organized 5 craft bazaars/exhibitions within & outside the state by the end of Nov., 2014.
Another important area of activity is skill development. Around 8500 persons are trained annually through 553 training centres in the state. During the year 2014-15 (ending Nov., 2014), 2925 persons have been trained in various crafts like sozni, staple, crewel, papier machie, phool kari, Zari, chain stitching etc.
Handlooms
There are approximately 0.38 lakh weavers in the State who are engaged in this industry under organized and un-organized sectors. Moreover, the handloom goods have great demand in the national and international markets. There are 3741 handloom units in the State employing same number of persons producing Loies, Puttos, Tweed, Blankets, Raffal, Pashmina and Dusoti Khad.
The Department has 523 registered Handloom Industrial Co-operative Societies in the State with a membership of 15275 weavers. There are approximately 38,000 Handlooms in the State. During 2013-14, 10.26 million meters of handloom fabrics valuing Rs.232.95 Crore were produced in the cooperative sector. The production and value of handloom fabrics for the current financial year viz 2014-15 (ending 11/2014) is of the order of 9.98 million meters and Rs.226.61 Crore respectively.
The Department runs 100 training centers to impart training in various trades which include readymade garments, handloom weaving, Pashmina spinning and weaving, and Kani shawl weaving. Out of 100 training centers, 84 centers are exclusively imparting training in readymade garments and handloom weaving. Around 1000 trainees are annually imparted technical skill in these centers. During the year 2014-15, 1044 trainees have been enrolled for training in different trades.
Sericulture
Sericulture continues to be a subsidiary occupation for about 30,000 rural families in the State. Most of these families belong to economically backward sections of the society. Annually about 1022 MT of cocoons are produced generating an income of about Rs. 2026.00 Lac for these silkworm rearers coupled with the annual employment generation to the tune of 3.5 Lac mandays (3.0 Lac on-farm and 0.50 Lac off-farm). The Department has 173 mulberry nurseries spread over an area of 963 Acrs, and 374 mulberry blocks over an area 2215 acres across the State. The nurseries are utilized for production of saplings/cuttings for further distribution amongst farmers to augment area under mulberry and mulberry blocks which serve as leaf reservoirs for the landless and marginal farmers. Annually about 20.00 Lac plants are produced from these nurseries against the potential of 30.00 Lac plants. The Department has well established seed organization and presently about 60% local annual seed demand is met out from the sector.
Tourism
The tourism tag has placed always the State of J&K in the limelight at the national as well as international levels. Our tourism products are well known. All out efforts are being made to increase the tourist inflow in the state as with more the arrival of tourists, more economic activity gets generated which has multiplier effect on the income levels of the large chunk of population dependent on this sector.20 Destinations covered for exploitation of tourism potential in the last few years by creation of Development Authorities as against the earlier focus on five of them only. The off beat destination in state like Gurez, Bani-Basholi, Lolab-Bungus, Kokernag-Sinthantop, Verinag-Doda, Bhaderwah-Achabal, Poonch-Rajouri, Marigan Hills in Kishtwar, Zanaskar etc which are being developed through area specific Tourism Development Authorities will be further developed and promoted so that the tourist footfalls in equitably distributed.
Health
The Life Expectancy of males and females at national level stands at 63.95 & 67.08 years, respectively. As far as, the J&K State is concerned, the life expectancy of males & females stands at 66.5 and 69.3 years, respectively; which is more than the national average. The crude birth rate of the J&K State is 17.8 which is well below the national average of 21.8. The crude death rate (CDR) of the J&K State is 5.5 which is quite low as compared to national average of 7.1, as per census 2011. The population growth in this decade was 23.71 percent while in previous decade it was 29.04 percent. The population of Jammu and Kashmir forms 1.04 percent of India in 2011. In 2001, the figure was 0.99 percent. This difference indicates a much higher rate of growth in comparison to average All India growth rate.
There are 5532 Govt. health institutions at primary, secondary and tertiary levels including newly sanctioned 826 sub centres, 371 NTPHCs and 87 ISM Dispensaries . The doctor patient ratio in our State is 1:2104 as against the recommendations of World Health Organization (WHO) of 1:1000, which is grossly in-sufficient.
For the first time in the Medical History of the state the epidemic called Swine Flu has made an intrusion, mostly affecting the old aged persons, children, pregnant women and in general the people with weak immunity. To combat such situations and to curtail it from spreading further, the State govt immediately released Rs. 30.00 lacs for augmentation of medicines, vaccines and purchase of ventilators.
Education
Education is the most important lever for social, economic and political transformation. A well-educated and skilled population not only drives economic and social development but also ensures personal growth. The spread of education in society is at the foundation of success in today’s globalised world, where the real wealth of a country or state is not in its tangible natural resources but in knowledge. The importance of education as the foundation and building block for achieving national objectives and for building a more inclusive, equitable and sustainable society is well recognized. There is also a constitutional obligation to make available free and compulsory education to all children in the age group of 06-14 years. The number of educational institutions in public sector reached to 24265 and those in private sector to 5292 in the State. The total enrollment has also increased to 27.41 lakh out of which the enrollment in primary classes is 10.97 lakh, in middle 7.06 lakh, in High / Higher secondary schools, 9.38 lakh. During the decade 2001-2011, literacy rate increased from 55.50% to 68.74% in the State as against 64.84% to 74.04% at the national level. The dropout rate in the state has declined to 11% in 2012-13. The access to Higher Education is measured in terms of Gross Enrolment ratio. The Gross Enrolment ratio for the state of J&K was 10.36% in 2007-08 which has increased to 18.2% (provisional) in 2011-12 which is higher than the national GER of 15%. Over the years, J&K has achieved many milestones in higher education. The number of colleges providing education in 1950-51 was just 07 out of which 01 college was for female students. Upto 1999-2000, the number of colleges increased to 33 including 07 women colleges. By the year 2013-14, the number of colleges has increased to 95 including 12 women degree colleges. Two Central Universities, one each at Jammu and Srinagar, are functional in the State. Five universities, i.e. two State universities, two Govt. aided universities and one Private University with intake capacity of 11,400 students, are also functioning in the State. In addition, 15 offsite campuses of Universities of Kashmir & Jammu have been approved, out of which 9 campuses have been established, mostly in far-flung areas.
The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) aims at universal access and retention, bridging of gender and social gaps in enrollment levels and enhancement of learning levels of all children. The SSA has programmes like National Programme for Education of Girls at Elementary Level (NPEGEL) and the residential school scheme, Kasturba Gandhi BalikaVidyalaya (KGBV), that have focus on girls’ education. During 2014-15, 5032 children for nomadic seasonal centres approved by MHRD, 40 primary school approved for upgradation and 4076 girls enrolled in KGBVs during the current financial year.
Housing
Housing, a basic need for human, plays an important role in accommodating high urban growth. However, several structural issues such as high gestation period, limited and expensive capital, spiraling land and construction cost and low affordability by EWS lower income group households are bottlenecks restricting desired growth in housing stock. As per census 2011, there are 21.19 lac households in the State of J&K and total number of residential houses is around 20.15, which clearly indicates that there is not much shortage of housing in the State as of now. The census reveals only 6.5% of urban household reside in the rented accommodation.
Water Supply & Sanitation
The water sector is facing daunting challenges due to urbanization, industrialization and huge demand for Agriculture sector. The potential for augmentation of supply is limited, water tables are falling and water quality issues have increased. Our rivers and ground waters are continuously polluted by untreated effluents and sewerage. The climate change poses fresh challenges.
To address the drinking water problem in the state, a number of schemes are being also implemented under State Plan/District Plan, LIC/NABARD loan assistance and Economic Reconstruction Agency. Availability of safe drinking water not only reduces the risk of death due to water borne diseases, but safe drinking water along with proper sanitation also helps in maintaining and determining the quality of life.
Sanitation in the rural areas offers a formidable challenge to the health and well being of the rural population and the most challenging factor in the rural sanitation comes from the habit of open area defecation by the rural population. This results in increasing the pollution levels of water bodies and therefore, also pollutes potable water. This result in gastroenteritis related diseases and adds especially to infant mortality. Similarly, lack of proper disposal of domestic refuses also adds to the health challenges which the rural population faces. In order to overcome these challenges, the department is implementing an important scheme known as Total Sanitation Campaign (TSC) now renamed as Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan (NBA).
Now, again the GoI has approved the restructuring of Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan (NBA) and has replaced it by a new programme called Swachh Bharat Abhiyan Mission (Gramin) on 2nd Oct, 2014 with the following two sub-Missions:-
i. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan Mission (Gramin)
ii. Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban)
Women Empowerment & Child Development
The ICDS Scheme was started in J&K State in the year1975. Currently ICDS is the only programme that reaches out to lakhs of women and children living in remote villages. It is and will continue to be the flagship programme with a holistic package of six basic services for children up to six years of age and for pregnant and nursing mothers. These services are: health check-up, immunization, referral services, supplementary feeding, pre school education and health and nutrition education through one platform i.e. Anganwari Centre. At present, J&K State has 141 ICDS Projects (including one migrant project) and 29599 AWCs have been sanctioned by Government of India out of which 28594 are presently functional. About 1000000 beneficiaries which comprise children of 6 months to 6 years of age, Pregnant and lactating mothers, are being given supplementary nutrition. About 1500 inmates which include orphans/destitute children/women and widows are being provided free boarding and lodging in 24 Bal-Ashrams and 12 Nari-Niketans spread all over the State.
Power
Electricity is an essential source of commercial energy. It is vital for sustained economic growth. An increase in demand for power implies growth of the economy leading to modernization, industrialization and improvement in basic amenities culminating into a better quality of life of people. The estimated hydro power potential of the state is 20,000 Megawatts (MW), of which about 16475 MW have been identified. This comprises 11283 MW in Chenab basin, 3084 MW in Jhelum basin 500 MW in Ravi Basin & 1608 MW in Indus basin. Out of the identified potential, only 2813.46MW i.e. 17 % (of identified potential) has been exploited so far, consisting of 761.96 MW in State Sector from 21 power projects, 2009 MW in Central Sector from 7 projects and 42.5 MW in private sector from 4 projects. Effective and efficient Transmission and Distribution is as vital as the generation of power. The need of power in the State is growing, so does the generation. In order to transfer the Power from point of generation to point of consumption effectively, the Transmission and Distribution infrastructure needs development. The Transmission and Distribution losses in the State are very high of the order of 55 percent. The main reasons for such high losses are technical as well as commercial. The high technical losses are due to existing outdated distribution network. To minimize losses, the system needs up-gradation and improvements. Commercial losses include theft, unaccounted and uncontrolled consumption of power beyond agreement load, unregistered consumers, lesser contract demand etc. Due to various measures taken by PDD, the losses have shown a downward trend. The losses during 2013-14 have reduced by 3% as compared to 2012-13.
Connectivity
A well- developed network of roads is necessary not only for the economic development of the State but for its social, political and cultural development. It is required to exploit the rich natural wealth of the State, to develop indigenous industries, to explore new markets for its products and to promote tourism. To this effect the State government has been focusing on construction of new roads, maintenance and upgradation of already existing roads, construction of bridges and culverts and connecting villages with a network of roads. Road length maintained by PW(R&B) Department has enhanced from 18368 kms in 2007-08 to 31921 kms during 2013-14 (ending March, 2014). Under PMGSY scheme, 1676 habitants were connected through road which included 1393 habitations with population of 250+ and 283 habitations with population of <250.
Work on 25 km Udhampur to Katra section has also been completed and was opened on 4th July, 2014 by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. This 25 km section too is an example of engineering marvels as pier of the bridge on Jhajjar khad, is the tallest in the Indian Railways and is even taller than Qutab Minar.This section involves about 10.9 km of tunneling, 9 important/major bridges, 29 minor bridges and 10 ROB/RUBs in addition to about 38.86 lakh cum of earthwork. The tallest bridge in this section is 85 metres high and longest tunnel is 3.15 km long.
Communication
The overall Teledensity in India increased from 76.36 at the end of August 2014 to 76.75 at the end of September 2014. The overall Teledensity for J&K state is 69.98. Rural Teledensity is 45.6 and urban Teledensity is 132.73 for J&K state.
The total post offices in J&K are 1699 out of which 03 are seasonal post offices which function for only two months during Amarnath yatra period. Out of these1699 post offices, 09 are head offices, 256 are sub post offices and the remaining 1434 post offices are Extra Departmental Branch Office (EDBO’s). On an average, 01 post office serves 7382 people as on 31-03-2014 in the state as per census 2011.
Poverty
Poverty is one of the main issues and indicates a condition in which a person fails to maintain a living standard adequate for a comfortable lifestyle. Mere growth of economy cannot bring social justice and balanced development unless it is coupled with poverty alleviation and employment generating opportunities for deprived and marginalized sections of the society. The survey conducted by the State during 2007-08 put the BPL population at 21.63 percent. A host of poverty alleviation programmes are in operation in the State mostly with central assistance.
Unemployment
Unemployment is a social issue of serious concern. The survey on employment – unemployment carried out by NSSO provides estimates on various characteristics pertaining to employment and unemployment at the National as well as State level. The latest NSS Survey- 68th round conducted during July, 2011 – June, 2012 throughout the country constitutes an important source of information on unemployment. Unemployment rate as per Usual Principal Status (UPS) in J&K has come down from 5.3% to 4.9% during the period July, 2009 to June, 2012 i.e. (66th & 68th Round of NSS respectively) which is still higher than the unemployment rate of 2.7% at all India level.
Prices
Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (CPI-IW) is the most well known index used, inter alia, for measuring inflationary trends for policy formulations in the country. The average inflation rate at All India level from April to December 2014-15 [CPI-IW] was 6.2% while at the J&K level it was registered at 7.9%.
Damage caused due to Floods of September, 2014
Untimely heavy rains from 1st to 6th September, 2014 caused devastating floods and landslides in J&K state affecting badly some parts of Jammu Province and most of the parts of Kashmir Valley. The river embankments caved in and eroded habitations, hospitals, schools, Govt. offices and many other buildings and infrastructure..
More than 700 villages remained submerged. Srinagar city got submerged due to flood water. About 300 persons lost their lives in floods. 6.48 lakh hectares of agricultural/ horticultural land got affected. About 3 lakh houses got fully or partially damaged.
Govt. of J&K assessed the damages at Rs 43959.56 crore and with prior approval of State Cabinet submitted the proposal to Govt. of India for providing special financial assistance. Financial assistance for the package is awaited from Govt. of India and the people of the state eagerly look forward for financial help from Govt. of India.
Natural Disasters
Two Haunting threats to J&K state that need serious attention from all stake holders are 1. Earthquake and 2. Floods.
Owing to its peculiar topography, rugged terrain, extreme weather conditions and underdeveloped economy, the state has suffered a lot on account of natural disasters leading to loss of human lives and public and private property.
Earthquake
Most parts of the Kashmir valley (11% of the area of the State) covering districts of Srinagar, Ganderbal, Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora, Budgam, Anantnag, Pulwama, Doda, Ramban, Kishtwar fall under seismic zone V where about 50% of the population of the state lives. On the other hand whole of Ladakh region, and Jammu Division (90% of total area of the state) fall under seismic Zone IV. The lives and properties in these zones is at high risk and therefore safety measures for public and private infrastructure are required to be taken in a sustained manner by all the stakeholders.
Floods
Low lying areas of Kashmir valley, especially Awantipora, Srinagar, Sonawari are prone to devastating floods anytime while parts of Jammu province which get high discharge during rains which causes devastation. Upper catchments of all the tributaries of Jhelum, Chenab, Indus and Tawi are prone to flash floods. The historical city of Srinagar which got submerged due to floods of September, 2014 will require special focus for constriction of flood protection infrastructure, dredging of rivers and development of one more flood spill channel to off load the main river from flood waters. The insulation of the city and towns from floods will be number one priority for the Government in the coming years.
