Jammu and Kashmir, a former princely state, now an Indian occupied territory has a unique economy that has been shaped by its history and geography. The region is home to a diverse range of resources, including minerals, water, and tourism potential, which have the potential to drive economic growth. However, the region’s economy has been severely impacted by India’s colonial decision to withdraw statehood and impose curfew in August 2019 that lasted for several months and remains in effect for all practical measures. This article will examine the economy of IIOJK and how it has been affected by the Indian curfew.
The economy of IIOJK is primarily driven by agriculture, tourism, and handicrafts. The region is known for its high-quality produce, such as saffron and apples, and has the potential to become a major hub for agricultural exports. The tourism industry in IIOJK has a massive potential to grow and accommodate increasing numbers of tourists visiting the region to enjoy its stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage, only if the security situation is stabilized; which are hampered by Indian atrocities. Indian curfew has had a severe impact on both the agriculture and tourism industries, leading to a significant decrease in economic activity and job losses.
One of the major impacts of the Indian curfew on the economy of IIOJK has been the disruption of supply chains and transportation networks. The curfew resulted in the closure of roads and the suspension of public transportation, making it difficult for farmers to transport their crops to market and for tourists to travel within the region. This has had a major impact on the agricultural and tourism industries, leading to significant losses for farmers and businesses.
Another impact of the Indian curfew has been the restriction of access to financial services. The curfew has made it difficult for businesses to access credit and other financial services, leading to a decrease in investment and economic growth. This has been particularly damaging for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form a significant part of the regional economy and are often unable to access the same resources as larger businesses.
The Indian curfew has also had a major impact on the labor market in IIOJK. The suspension of economic activity and the closure of businesses has resulted in significant job losses, particularly in the agriculture and tourism industries. This has had a significant impact on the region’s poverty rate and has made it difficult for many families to make ends meet.
The restriction of access to financial services has also been damaging, leading to a decrease in investment and economic growth. It is essential that the Indian government lift the curfew and take measures to support the recovery of the regional economy, so that it can reach its full potential and provide a better future for its people.
The Indian curfew in IIOJK has had a significant impact on education in the region. The curfew has disrupted the functioning of schools and universities, leading to the closure of institutions and the suspension of classes. This has affected the education of thousands of students and has hindered the development of human capital in the region. Additionally, the curfew has made it difficult for teachers and students to travel to and from schools, further exacerbating the impact on the education sector.
Furthermore, the curfew has also had a negative impact on the informal sector, where a large proportion of workers are employed. This sector has been severely impacted by the disruption of transportation networks and supply chains, leading to a decrease in economic activity and job losses.
Indian atrocities and inhumane curfew has had a significant impact on every facet of human life in IIOJK. The disruption of economic activity, the restriction of access to financial services, and the suspension of education is a form of social and economic terrorism being waged against the innocent people of Kashmir.
Indian actions are deplorable and require international condemnation. A state sponsored campaign of economic, social, psychological warfare is be waged by New Delhi to weaken the spirit and resolve of Kashmiris but to no effect. Kashmiri freedom struggle against 75 years of oppression continues even at the expense of region’s poverty rate and development of human capital in the region.
