The growth of tourism in Jammu and Kashmir has created substantial economic opportunities while also raising concerns about the equitable distribution of tourism benefits, particularly regarding the operation of commercial tourist vehicles registered outside the Union Territory. From an ethical and developmental perspective, tourism should primarily benefit the host communities that preserve the region’s natural, cultural, and social assets. Local taxi operators are integral to the tourism ecosystem, providing employment to thousands of families while serving as ambassadors of Kashmir’s culture and hospitality. Unrestricted operation of outside commercial tourist vehicles may result in economic leakage, reducing local employment opportunities and weakening the multiplier effect of tourism within the region. Principles of community-based and inclusive tourism therefore support policies that maximize local participation and........

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