Kashmir’s Liquor Debate: Morality, Revenue, and the Politics of Control in a Changing Valley

Kashmir’s Liquor Debate: Morality, Revenue, and the Politics of Control in a Changing Valley

Kashmir Liquor Debate 2026: Morality vs Revenue vs Political Control By: Javid Amin | 22 April 2026 A Valley Divided: More Than Just a Debate Over Alcohol In Kashmir, the question of liquor is not merely administrative—it is deeply emotional, cultural, and political. What appears on paper as an excise policy issue unfolds on the ground as a sensitive conflict between identity, governance, and economic priorities. As of 2026, the debate remains unresolved. The administration frames liquor availability as essential for tourism and revenue generation, while large sections of Kashmiri…

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Pahalgam’s tourism carrying capacity exceeded, leading to environmental degradation and social disruption

Pahalgam's tourism carrying capacity exceeded, leading to environmental degradation and social disruption

Pahalgam’s environment and culture under threat from tourism By : Javid Amin Pahalgam, nestled in the picturesque region of Jammu and Kashmir, India, has long been renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Its lush mountains, meandering rivers, and verdant forests have made it a favored tourist destination. However, in recent years, Pahalgam has encountered a host of challenges, primarily centered around environmental degradation and the growing issue of overtourism. Foremost among these challenges is environmental degradation, stemming from several interconnected factors. Deforestation, driven by logging and land clearance, poses a…

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