Trade between Kashmir and Central Asia via Traditional Corridors of Ladakh

Abstract

Kashmir valley with great geo-strategic significance, was an economic hub, connecting Indian sub-continent with Central Asia and rest of the world, since ancient times. However, this exchanging center lost it relevance with the Partition of Indian sub-continent in 1947, ‘Greater Jammu & Kashmir’ was divided into Azad Jammu Kashmir administered by Pakistan and Jammu and Kashmir Administered by India and the State moved from main to margin as all the routes were closed for trade and traffic including Zojila Pass. Indian Administer Kashmir (J&K) became wholly and solely dependent on Jawahar Tunnel for import and export. The people of J&K still remain behind curtain for number of days due to climatic hazards, communal and political tension, in the age of globalization, modernization and regional integration. The author attempted to put forth historical significance and arguments for reviving traditional corridors via Ladakh on sound basis rather than making revival of ancient trade outlets subservient to peace and drug mafia.