AN EXPLORATORY STUDY ON GROWTH OF TOURISM: A CASE STUDY OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR

Abstract

Jammu and Kashmir came into being as a single political entity after the treaty of Amritsar signed between Gulab Singh and British Indian rulers, on March 16 1846.The Dogra’s after this treaty’ adopted such methods of governance which kept the majority of Kashmiris in constant fear so that none could muster the courage to raise even a whimper. To perpetuate their rule without any resistance the Dogra’s bruised the psyche of people and reduced them to a state of utter helplessness. People in Jammu and Kashmir began their struggle against Dogra Regime under the flags of Muslim conference and national conference which ultimately resulted in end of 1947 after the passage of the famous June 3^rd plan by British parliament. Like other princely states of British India, Jammu and Kashmir too was to be given right to decide its political future by either acceding to dominion of India or newly carved Pakistan. But Maharaja Hari Singh of Jammu and Kashmir signed accession with government of India in 1947. This paper includes the historical background of Kashmir clashes and its economic repercussions. This study analyses the disturbances of Jammu and Kashmir and impact on tourism and economy of state. When we look into the circumstances of J&K, it is not only the precious lives that have been lost but other segments of state have also received a considerable set back. Lack of faith shown by the businessmen to setup business and decline in the number of tourists that come to state has very drastically affected the J&K economy. Because of the clash, the economic potential of the state has been rendered less effective. Due to the malfunctioning of state govt, the potential revenue generating sectors in the valley are not being used fully. Disturbance in the region, particularly, the tussle between India and Pakistan over Kashmir has become a big hurdle in the economic growth and development of the state. Disturbance has expunged millions of dollars, destroyed infrastructure and kept the investment opportunities very low. One of most adverse effect of this conflict has been on the human resources of the state who are of vital importance in growth of economy of any nation. Hence this paper attempts to study growth of tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. The paper will also put forth some suggestions in improving the social and economic scenario of J&K.