Notable Contribution to India’s Export Performance
The Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Jitin Prasada, revealed that Jammu and Kashmir’s Information Technology (IT) sector has made a notable contribution to India’s export performance. Speaking in Parliament, Prasada disclosed that the region reported a total export value of ₹42.12 crore for the fiscal year 2023-24. This figure includes exports from software, IT-enabled services and the automobile sector, demonstrating the growing economic potential of the Union Territory.
According to Prasada, Software Technology Parks of India (STPI)-registered units in Jammu and Kashmir accounted for ₹41.93 crore of the total exports. This significant contribution highlights the emerging role of the IT sector in the region’s economy. The performance reflects a steady increase in software and IT-enabled services exports, showcasing the region’s potential to integrate into India’s expanding digital economy.
However, the automobile sector’s contribution to exports from Jammu and Kashmir remained minimal. The export value for auto components and parts stood at ₹0.02 crore, while motor vehicles and cars accounted for ₹0.17 crore. These figures underline the relatively small footprint of the automobile sector in J&K’s export portfolio compared to its IT counterparts.
Growth Potential and Government Initiatives
Jammu and Kashmir’s economic landscape has been undergoing a transformation in recent years, with a focus on diversifying its industrial base. The government has introduced several initiatives to foster growth in sectors like IT, manufacturing, and handicrafts. The J&K Industrial Policy 2021-30 aims to attract investments and create an enabling environment for industries to thrive. Additionally, infrastructure improvements such as better road connectivity, digital infrastructure, and industrial estates are paving the way for enhanced economic activity.
The IT sector in particular has benefited from focused interventions aimed at skill development, infrastructure upgrades and incentives for businesses operating under STPI schemes. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to position Jammu and Kashmir as a competitive hub for technology-driven industries.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the IT sector shows promise, challenges remain in scaling up operations to match national benchmarks. Limited infrastructure, connectivity issues in remote areas and a lack of large-scale private investment have hindered faster growth. Similarly, the automobile sector’s minimal contribution indicates untapped potential that requires targeted interventions to boost production capabilities and market access.
On the other hand, Jammu and Kashmir’s skilled workforce and improving business environment provide opportunities for exponential growth in exports. The region’s strategic location also offers access to international markets via improved trade routes.
Improvement in IT Sector
The ₹42.12 crore export figure underscores Jammu and Kashmir’s growing integration into India’s broader economic framework through its IT sector. While there is significant room for improvement—particularly in sectors like automobiles—the steady rise in software exports reflects positive momentum. With continued government support, investment in infrastructure and private sector participation, Jammu and Kashmir is poised to further enhance its role as an emerging contributor to India’s export economy.
