Building Jammu’s future: Time to look beyond tourism

Known for its cultural vibrancy and religious significance, Jammu now faces an urgent need to tap into its underutilised industrial potential. Despite its strategic location and favourable climatic conditions, much of the region’s economic growth remains confined to traditional sectors, especially tourism — a dependency that recent natural disasters have exposed as unsustainable.

Tourism hit by natural disasters

The recent floods and landslides have devastated infrastructure across the region, significantly affecting the tourism industry. Many roads were damaged in the heavy rains of August and September, discouraging tourists from visiting. As a result, hotels and businesses reliant on tourism are struggling to survive.

Jammu comprises 10 districts, most of which are mountainous and hilly. While Kathua, Samba, and Jammu have seen some industrial growth in recent years, the remaining seven districts remain largely unexplored in terms of industrial development.

Tourism vital — but not enough

Tourism continues to be an important pillar of the regional economy, but it cannot be the sole driver of growth. A diversified economic strategy is essential to ensure resilience and sustained development. Following the reorganisation of the erstwhile state of J&K into a Union Territory, some progress has been made. Major industrial projects have been launched in Kathua, Samba and Jammu, thanks to incentives and support from the Central Government and UT administration. But to truly unlock Jammu’s potential, other districts must be integrated into the industrial growth narrative.

District-wise potential

With proper planning, infrastructure development, and improved connectivity, even the remote and hilly areas of Jammu can evolve into hubs for diverse industries, generating employment and strengthening the local economy.

Samba, Kathua, and Jammu plains: Ideal for agro-processing units, food parks, and light manufacturing industries due to easier logistics and fertile land.

Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban: Rich in hydropower potential, these districts are suitable for setting up renewable energy projects, besides mineral-based and eco-friendly industries.

Kishtwar: Known for its sapphire mines, the region holds potential to become a gemstone processing and jewellry manufacturing hub, provided investment and infrastructure are channelled effectively.

Reasi: Home to the Vaishno Devi shrine, Reasi can be developed into a religious tourism and wellness hub, offering year-round economic activity that combines spirituality with hospitality and wellness services.

Infra key to unlocking potential

A major bottleneck remains infrastructure and connectivity. Projects like the upcoming Delhi–Katra Expressway and the direct rail link to the Kashmir Valley via Jammu are seen as game changers for the region’s economy. However, many districts still lack proper road networks, digital infrastructure and basic industrial facilities.

To move forward, the government must prioritise region-specific planning, leveraging the unique strengths of each district. Whether it is minerals, tourism, agriculture, or energy, each area of Jammu holds untapped promise.

Way forward

Jammu’s industrial future depends on thinking beyond tourism. With a focused strategy that integrates investment, infrastructure, and inclusive development, all ten districts can contribute meaningfully to the UT’s and the nation’s economy.

The time is ripe to reimagine Jammu — not just as a tourist destination, but as a thriving industrial and economic hub.