Srinagar, April 28 -- Kashmir's stunning landscapes and rich culture are well-known worldwide, but the region's economic potential has often been overshadowed by its reliance on tourism. While tourism has played a vital role in the local economy, it's time to think bigger.

Kashmir has far more to offer. The region can diversify its economy by tapping into its natural resources, agricultural wealth, skilled labor, and rich cultural heritage. There's an opportunity for transformation to build a sustainable future beyond the tourist season.

A key starting point is the region's high-value agriculture. Kashmir's saffron, often regarded as the best in the world, could be marketed globally. With its unique quality and rich history, it could be...