Advocate Tahir
As a citizen of Jammu & Kashmir, I am of the opinion that the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the erstwhile state into two Union Territories (Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh) on August 5, 2019, Jammu & Kashmir has experienced significant shifts in governance. The most pivotal change in this restructured administration is the appointment of a Lieutenant Governor (LG) in J&K. Before 2019, J&K had a special autonomy under Article 370, allowing it to have its own constitution and a separate set of laws distinct from the rest of the country. With the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganization of the state into Union Territories, the political landscape transformed. The LG administration replaced the traditional structure, making the central government more directly involved in governance here.
The LG of J&K functions as the head of the Union Territory, wielding both executive and legislative authority in many respects. The current LG, Manoj Sinha, has been actively engaged in transforming the governance framework, introducing reforms, and focusing on inclusive development. Since the LG administration took charge, several significant developmental initiatives have been launched to address long-standing challenges in J&K, including unemployment, infrastructure deficits, and underdeveloped sectors like tourism, health, and education.
Major projects like the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, road connectivity under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, and rural electrification initiatives have been accelerated. The augmentation of healthcare infrastructure has been a priority. New hospitals, specialized health centres, and improved medical facilities have been established across J&K. The administration has focused on creating employment opportunities through various schemes, like the ‘Mission Youth’ initiative, designed to empower young people with skills, entrepreneurship opportunities, and jobs.
New industrial policies, such as the Industrial Development Scheme (IDS) for J&K, have attracted investments and sought to revive traditional industries like handicrafts and horticulture while encouraging new sectors like IT and renewable energy. Tourism, a critical economic pillar in J&K, has received a boost with renewed focus on unexplored destinations, adventure tourism, and cultural festivals. The administration has also worked on restoring heritage sites and promoting the rich cultural traditions.
The security scenario in J&K has been one of the most complex challenges for any administration. The LG administration has worked on a multi-pronged strategy that involves bolstering security measures while simultaneously promoting socio-economic stability and outreach programs aimed at winning the trust of the people. Measures like increased surveillance, community policing, and the crackdown on terror financing have contributed to stabilizing the situation. Programs like ‘Back to Village’ and ‘My Town My Pride’ have brought administration to the grassroots, encouraging dialogue, identifying local issues, and building trust.
The LG administration’s tenure has been marked by a shift towards a development-oriented, security-conscious, and centrally coordinated governance model. Centralized governance has led to the acceleration of key infrastructure projects, timely release of funds, and a focused push towards national integration. Programs like the ‘Back to Village’ initiative focus on bringing governance to the doorsteps of the people, creating a direct link between the administration and local communities.
The LG administration has extensively leveraged technology to enhance transparency, efficiency, and public service delivery. E-governance initiatives have been rolled out across various sectors, making administrative processes more accessible to the general population. The focus on digitization aims to reduce delays and corruption.
The abrogation of Article 370 was not only a domestic political decision but also carried significant geopolitical weight, signalling the country’s firm stance on the territorial integrity of J&K. The LG administration, with its emphasis on development and integration, is central to India’s strategy of countering narratives that challenge its sovereignty.
The engagement with civil society, youth, and marginalized communities is essential in building a narrative of hope and progress. By addressing grievances and promoting a vision of inclusive development, the LG administration laid the foundation for a stable and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir.
Advocate Tahir is a law graduate with deep insights into Jammu and Kashmir’s socio-political landscape. His work focuses on governance dynamics post-2019, blending analytical depth with practical perspectives. His writings offer valuable commentary on J&K’s evolving administration, development initiatives, and security challenges. He can be reached at: [email protected].