Recent Developments in Key Sectors

• The government has placed a strong emphasis on highway development, particularly in regions such as Jammu and Kashmir, the northeastern states, and the hilly areas of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Currently, road construction projects valued at Rs. 2,00,000 crore (US$ 23.31 billion) are in progress in Jammu and Kashmir, which includes the construction of 105 tunnels. Additionally, the government is undertaking the construction of the Zojila tunnel, recognized as Asia's longest tunnel designed for sub-zero temperatures, with an estimated investment of around Rs. 6,000 crore (US$ 699 million).
• Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Mr. Nitin Gadkari allocated of Rs. 1404.94 crore (US$ 169 million) for the Widening and Strengthening project of the Rafiabad – Kupwara – Chowkibal – Tangdhar – Chamkot section of National Highway-701.
• Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Mr. Jitendra Singh highlighted Jammu and Kashmir's emergence as an agricultural start-up hub, particularly in Bhaderwah, where lavender cultivation has flourished.
• As of March 2025, J&K had a total installed power-generation capacity of 3,607.09 MW, comprising 1,884.08 MW under central utilities, 1,576.47 MW (state/UT utilities) and 146.54 MW (private utilities). Of the total installed power-generation capacity until March 2025, 2,339.88 MW was contributed by hydropower, 881.22 MW (thermal power), 318.01 MW (renewable power) and 67.98 MW (nuclear power).
• According to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, J&K had 12.15 million wireless and tele-density of 89.75%, as of December 2024.
• Under the State/UT Budget 2023-24, Rs. 2,928.04 crore (US$ 357.4 million) has been allocated for housing and urban development.
• Raw silk production stood at 98 MT in 2021-22 in Jammu & Kashmir
• The Kashmir region is known for its horticulture industry. The industry plays a vital role in the UT’s economic development. In 2023-24, the total production of vegetables and fruits in the UT was estimated at 1,996.18 thousand metric tonnes and 2,643.24 thousand metric tonnes, respectively.
• The Handicrafts industry has been receiving priority attention from the Government in view of its large employment base and exports potential.
  • This is a significant step towards fostering the rural economy and boosting sale of authentic exotic handicraft and handloom products and seeking new destinations for niche handmade Jammu and Kashmir products.
  • The Government of India's newly constituted Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has announced a fresh plan to revitalise the region's crafts sector in August 2021. The project, known as Karkhandar, aims to improve trainee learning techniques and help artisans better their living standards.
• J&K SIDCO is the nodal agency for promotion and development of medium- and large-scale industries in the UT.

Note: P - Provisional, ** - As per 3rd Advance Estimates, * - Includes Fruits, Vegetables, Spices, Honey, Plantation, Aromatic and Flowers, #- Including Ladakh Union Territory