Jammu & Kashmir's Export Preparedness Index Rise Highlights Policy Reforms
J&K's Export Preparedness Index Rise Highlights Policy Reforms

Jammu & Kashmir Emerges as Top Performer in Export Preparedness Index 2024

The recent Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024 has spotlighted Jammu & Kashmir as a leading performer, a development that underscores significant institutional and policy advancements rather than mere tourism exports or heavy industrialization. This recognition highlights the region's progress in governance, infrastructure, and strategic reforms aimed at boosting export readiness.

Key Insights from the EPI 2024 Report

According to the index, Jammu & Kashmir's performance is primarily attributed to institutional and policy improvements, as indicated in the quiz question. This contrasts with common misconceptions that focus solely on tourism or industrial dominance. The EPI serves as a critical tool for evaluating states and union territories based on their export preparedness, aligning with national objectives like export-led growth and integration into global value chains.

Union Territories in Focus: Among union territories, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu featured prominently in the top performers list, thanks to their robust industrial base. This inclusion tests awareness of new UT configurations, as emphasized in competitive exams like the UPSC.

National and Governance Implications

The EPI 2024 most directly supports the national objective of export-led growth and global value chain integration, fostering job creation and economic diversification. From a governance perspective, the index strengthens competitive and cooperative federalism by encouraging states to learn from each other and compete effectively, a core mandate of NITI Aayog.

Classification Framework: States and UTs in the EPI 2024 are categorized into Leaders, Challengers, and Aspirers, reflecting performance maturity rather than simplistic labels like developed or developing. This nuanced approach ensures federal sensitivity and promotes balanced regional development.

Broader Context and Future Outlook

The EPI's role extends beyond mere ranking; it acts as a catalyst for policy refinement and inter-state collaboration. By highlighting areas like institutional reforms and infrastructure development, it guides states toward enhancing their export capabilities. As India pushes for greater economic integration globally, tools like the EPI will be pivotal in driving sustainable growth and competitiveness.

In summary, the Export Preparedness Index 2024 not only recognizes high performers like Jammu & Kashmir but also reinforces the importance of governance and policy frameworks in achieving export excellence. This aligns with broader national strategies aimed at bolstering India's position in the global economy.