Contextual framework

Abstract

This chapter lays out the contextual framework, starting with discussion of geographical and demographical aspects of the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) region. Following an in-depth analysis of the political economy of J&K state, India, since pre-independence era, the chapter analyzes its performance on selected economic and fiscal indicators over time as well as vis-a-vis selected states in the country. It also delves into a detailed analysis of employment situation in J&K state vis-a-vis other Indian states and explains why the issue of quality jobs is of particular relevance to fragile as well as poor-/lower-middle income states which witness a greater degree of economic distress. Finally, it attempts to capture deficits in human capital formation in J&K state by analyzing its status of health and education.