1. Agriculture & Horticulture: The Green Gold
Agriculture is the primary source of livelihood for over 70% of the population. J&K's unique geography allows for specialized cultivation found nowhere else in India.
The Karewa Lands & Saffron
The Karewas (lacustrine deposits) of the Kashmir Valley are world-famous. They are the exclusive site for Saffron (Kesar) cultivation, primarily in the Pampore region of Pulwama.
Horticulture Powerhouse
- Apples: J&K contributes roughly 75% of India's total apple production. Sopore is known as the "Apple Town of Asia."
- Walnuts: The UT holds a near-monopoly, producing over 90% of India's walnuts.
- Basmati Rice: The R.S. Pura belt in Jammu is globally recognized for its high-quality aromatic Basmati.
2. Industrial Shift & The "White Gold" Discovery
The industrial landscape changed significantly with the New Industrial Development Scheme (NIDS) 2021, which offered an outlay of ₹28,400 Crore to boost investment.
Mineral Wealth Highlights
| Mineral | Location Found | Economic Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Lithium | Salal-Haimana, Reasi | Known as "White Gold"; essential for EV batteries. (5.9 Million Tonnes) |
| Sapphire | Paddar, Kishtwar | World-famous "Peacock Blue" sapphires. |
| Limestone | Anantnag, Pulwama | The backbone of the local Cement Industry. |
| Gypsum | Uri (Baramulla), Ramban | Used in fertilizer and plaster production. |
3. Hydro-Electric Potential: The Power Hub
With three major Himalayan rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab), J&K has an estimated potential of 20,000 MW of hydro-power.
- Salal Project (690 MW): Built on the Chenab river in Reasi.
- Baglihar Project (900 MW): A major run-of-the-river project on the Chenab in Ramban.
- Uri I & II (720 MW Total): Strategic projects on the Jhelum in Baramulla.
- Dul Hasti (390 MW): Located on the Chenab in Kishtwar.
- First Project: The Mohra Power House (1905) on Jhelum was the second oldest in India.
4. Handicrafts & GI Tags
Handicrafts are the cultural ambassadors of J&K, employing lakhs of skilled artisans.
Current GI (Geographical Indication) Tags:
- Kashmiri Saffron: Covers Mongra, Lacha, and Guchhi varieties.
- Kani Shawl: The first J&K handicraft to receive a GI tag.
- Hand-knotted Carpets: Renowned for intricate Persian designs.
- Pashmina: Famous for extreme warmth and softness.
- Walnut Wood Carving: Intricate furniture and decor items.
💡 Quick Tips for JKSSB Aspirants
- Industrial Policy: The NIDS 2021 remains valid until 2037.
- Lithium Check: If asked about the district for Lithium, it is Reasi.
- Saffron Soil: Saffron grows specifically in Karewa soil (lacustrine deposits).
- Apple Town: Sopore is the main hub, but Shopian is often called the "Apple Bowl."
- River of Power: The Chenab river holds the highest hydro-power potential in the UT.
