On 5th of August 2023 the UT of Jammu & Kashmir witnessed successful completion of four years post abrogation of Article 370 and 35A. Undoubtedly the abrogation of Article 370 has brought stability, justice, democracy and economic development to the people of Jammu & Kashmir. During these four years the Central Government has continuously ensured monetary resources and policy initiatives to boost up the economy of the Union Territory and for infrastructure development in the region. Earlier, the underdeveloped communication network had added to the worries of the region’s agriculture and horticulture sectors as the movement of fruits was hampered as it took an inordinately long time for transportation with dilapidated roadways. But now that fear is giving way to hope as the government is pursuing construction of major roadways with priority. National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation is developing five tunnels in the UT at a cost of USD 3.42 million. The tunnels will have all weather access and will be completed by 2024. In an unprecedented move the foundation stone has been laid for the construction of 25 NH projects, in the region. The execution of new roads, tunnels and others basic Infrastructure in J&K has gained momentum. It is four years now since abrogation of Article 370 and the Union Territory has also seen overall development like speedy construction of highways, improvement of healthcare and education sector with world class infrastructure and ever increasing participation in sports activities by local youth. There are 53 projects in various sectors such as roads, power, health, education, tourism, agriculture, skill development being implemented in J&K. The government has announced initiatives like road, rail, and power projects, as well as measures to attract investment in agriculture, horticulture, and manufacturing. Significant infrastructure projects include the Zojila Tunnel, improving connectivity between Srinagar, Kargil and Leh and the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Project, are promoting economic development. The construction of roads has improved connectivity, reduced travel time, and boosted tourism. Efforts to enhance power infrastructure aim to address shortages and improve reliability. Healthcare and educational infrastructure have also been developed, establishing hospitals, educational institutions, and AIIMS campuses. A proposal for a Central University in Ladakh is underway with a 750-crore investment.
The abrogation of autonomy has brought J&K fully into the folds of India, integrating the region with the Indian mainland. Earlier, the special status granted under Article 370 had created a sense of separation and distinctness, which hindered the region’s complete integration with the rest of India. Now, J&K shares the same governance and constitutional provisions as other states, fostering inclusivity and a stronger relationship between Kashmiris and the rest of India. The repealing of special autonomy in J&K resulted in a tectonic shift in the political landscape. The separate constitution for the region was abolished, and it was divided into two Union Territories: J&K and Ladakh. The central government took direct control after dissolving the state assembly. Previously, J&K operated under Governor’s rule, but now Article 356 allows for President’s rule during emergencies. The region lost its special privileges, including its own constitution and flag. This transformation altered power dynamics and governance in the area.
Villages within the picturesque valley of Kashmir are known for their celestial and surreal landscapes, surrounded with thick green forests with meandering streams flowing along the meadows which further enhance their beauty. There is abundance of nature’s bounty in and around these villages. A drive on National Highway 1 from the South of the valley through Saffron fields, along crystal clear rivers and mountain streams and further towards the North reaching for the foothills of Himalayas is a tread to heaven itself. The contrast of green summer and bright white winters is a feast for the eyes of tourists from all over the globe. It, however, remains true that there certainly is an enormous scope of development throughout the villages of Kashmir. The central and UT governments have already taken steps in this direction by adopting various villages. Also, the concept of ‘Model Villages’ has been conceived. For example, the Union Government has moved on to develop five villages within the Dal Lake area as ‘Tourist villages’. The Tourist Villages Development Programme under the Mission Youth initiative, which aims at evolving each of 75 villages having an edge in scenic exquisiteness, exploratory topography, art and culture, and history, has gained very high momentum and is witnessing a heavy influx of Indian as well as foreign tourists.
Also, the thing to be understood is that development of villages doesn’t only facilitate the tourism and general up scaling of villages, but it is also helpful in alleviating poverty and augmenting the overall living standards of people, not to mention the channelising of masses in the right direction. As a first of its kind initiative, the Government of UT of Jammu and Kashmir has begun a determined and widespread programme by involving the people at the grassroots level to make a solemn longing for an upbeat standard of living for the farmers. The ‘Back to Village‘ programme is intended to encompass people of the UT and government machinery in a joint effort to deliver the mission of unbiased development. The programme is designed toward invigorating Panchayats and directing advance efforts in villages through civic partaking. As an element of this programme, civil servants will reach out to every Panchayat of the UT, where they will stay for a specific period to interrelate and acquire feedback from the grassroots to navigate Government energies in refining the distribution of village-specific amenities. The ‘Back to Village‘ programme has been conceptualized to safeguard developmental initiatives built on the response and assistance of the people rather than top down approach thus being more outcome-oriented with a stronger chances of its success and accomplishment.
The ‘Back to Village‘ programme orbits around the thought that while the authorised machinery of officials must lead and support, the primary duty to reinforce local circumstances rests with the people themselves. Therefore, they have to be stimulated to identify themselves with the programme, so that the benefits are taken full advantage of. The method at the village level, therefore, has to be synchronised, stirring all facets of village life. Such a slant must be made, not through a multiplicity of departmental officials but through Panchayat.
In a nutshell, it may be understood that the government has already pushed many programmes in the pipeline aimed at holistic development of the UT; and a microscopic view of the green shoots of development and stability in the region tells us that things are now translating onto the ground level. However it is recommended that an empowered independent body be tasked to oversee the progress and be empowered to take corrective measures. Like they say there is always light at the end of a tunnel and certainly J&K sans the Article 370 has seen positive changes, including greater integration, economic growth, welfare measures, and political representation. However, the situation remains complex due to historical, political, and socio-economic factors. Stakeholders hold differing opinions on the abolition of autonomy and its aftermath. The long-term implications are evolving, and the situation remains fluid.
