The concept of government in Jammu and Kashmir has undergone a revolution since Article 370, a transitory clause in the Constitution, was abolished by the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The security grid has been strengthened, development projects are being carried out on a war footing, and the Direct Beneficiary Transfer (DBT) mode has been used to reduce corruption. All of the middlemen have been eliminated, and the government is now interacting directly with J&K’s citizens. Benefits of development projects are now being received by the last person in queue since the Centre announced its plan to revoke J&K’s special status and split it into two Union Territories on August 5, 2019.
The region has been revitalised by the change in governing paradigm. Additionally, it has proven PM Modi’s dedication to “Sab Ka Saath, Sab Ka Vikas.” The administration has made sure that decision-making power is transferred to the local level through strengthening the Panchayati Raj system. By decentralising governance, this action has increased citizen involvement in the growth process.
Projects that have a direct influence on the communities in J&K are actively planned, carried out, and monitored by the local population. This straightforward method has improved governance effectiveness while encouraging a sense of ownership and accountability among the local populace.
Initiatives like “Back to Village” have brought the government to the people’s homes. By routinely travelling to remote locations, senior officers have helped to promote inclusivity and close the communication gap between the public and decision-makers. Direct communication has made it possible for the government to comprehend the particular difficulties that the people are facing, which has resulted in the development of solutions and policies that are well-received by the community.
The needs and ambitions of the local populace have been better understood as a result of officials’ outreach efforts. Programmes for conversation and participation have been started by the government to involve citizens in decision-making. They now have the power to actively contribute to the growth of their community.
An extensive development agenda
The administration has started an ambitious development plan in J&K after August 5, 2019. There has been a significant increase in infrastructure projects in the area, including those for power, hospitals, schools, bridges, and highways. Over the previous three years, numerous projects that had been in limbo for many years have been finished and dedicated to the people.
The Centre allocating substantial funds for new development projects in J&K has ensured their timely execution. The focus on building “Naya J&K” demonstrates the government’s determination to bridge the development gap that existed in the Himalayan region for years.
The transformation brought by the PM Modi-led regime in 3 years has proven beyond doubt that the politicians, who ruled Jammu and Kashmir for 70 years, couldn’t exhibit the political will and determination to address the basic needs and concerns of the common people. Their only aim was to remain in power and enjoy privileges.
Sincere and dedicated efforts put in by the present government have changed the ground situation in strife-torn Jammu and Kashmir, which witnessed Pakistan-sponsored terrorism for three decades.
Put an emphasis on economic empowerment
The administration led by PM Modi has placed a great emphasis on J&K’s economic development and job creation. The region now has access to programmes like “Skill India” and “Make in India,” which provide chances for entrepreneurship, skill development, and job creation.
The establishment of industries, enterprises, and startups in J&K has been aggressively promoted by the government. In addition to creating prospects for employment, these initiatives have diversified the region’s economy, which has lessened reliance on conventional industries and government employment.
DBT plays crucial role
For many years corruption within the system led to development efforts getting sabotaged in J&K, hindering progress and impeding the efficient delivery of public services. The PM Modi-led regime has taken stringent measures to combat corruption and promote transparency in governance.
Introduction of the Direct Beneficiary Transfer (DBT) mode has played a crucial role in reaching to the people directly. By directly transferring funds and benefits to the intended beneficiaries, the government has sent a clear message to a common man that he is the top most priority. This approach has not only streamlined the delivery of services but has also instilled trust in the governance system.
By eliminating middlemen and brokers the government has ensured that the benefits of development projects reach the intended recipients without leakages or pilferage.
The DBT mode has enhanced transparency, minimized corruption, and empowered the people of J&K by providing them direct access to their entitlements. This paradigm shift in the delivery of public services has brought about greater efficiency and accountability.
Security grid strengthened
Besides putting J&K on the path of development, PM Modi-led dispensation has strengthened the security apparatus in the region to combat terrorism and maintain law and order.
Stringent measures have been taken to neutralize terrorist networks and prevent their resurgence. The government’s efforts have resulted in a significant decline in terrorism-related incidents, instilling a sense of security and stability in the region.
Supporters and sympathizers of terrorists have been identified and nailed. The terror eco-system has been dismantled. Shutdowns and stone-pelting incidents have become history.
Steps taken by the government have created a conducive environment for development projects to flourish, encouraging investment, tourism, and economic growth.
J&K figures among best-governed regions
As of date J&K figures among the best-governed regions in the country and has set an example with common people becoming equal stakeholders in peace and development.
After 2019 people of J&K have been breathing freely in a terror-free environment. Shops and business establishments, schools and colleges, which used to remain closed for months together due to the shutdowns enforced by Pakistani agents in Kashmir, have been functioning without any disruptions for the past 3-years.
Unwavering commitment of the government towards development, enhanced security measures, direct engagement with the people, and initiatives to combat corruption have brought about positive change.
‘Naya Jammu and Kashmir’ is moving forward on the path of transformative initiatives introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and is on way to emerge as one of the most developed places in the country. It’s for the first time since 1947 people of J&K have come to know what good governance and democracy mean.
They are reaping the benefits of the courage, dedication and sincerity shown by the incumbent government and are actively participating in the programs and schemes aimed at empowering the common people.