BuzzBytes
Jammu, Oct 16: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has officially announced the revival of the historic Darbar Move—the biannual shifting of government offices between Srinagar and Jammu—after a four-year hiatus. The move, approved by the cabinet and signed off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, restores the 150-year-old tradition, first initiated by Maharaja Gulab Singh
in 1872 to ensure administrative access across both regions, especially during harsh weather conditions.
During a press conference, CM Omar Abdullah confirmed that the cabinet’s recommendation to reinstate the practice was approved in September, fulfilling a key National Conference manifesto promise and addressing demands from traders and civil society who argue the move sustains Jammu’s identity and the region’s social and economic vibrancy.
According to the official order, all government offices observing a five-day work week will close in Srinagar on October 31, and six-day offices will close on November 1, 2025. All departments will reopen in Jammu on November 3. Offices listed in Annexure A will move “in full,” while Annexure B offices will shift “in camp” mode, moving one-third of their staff or at least ten officials. The Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) will provide adequate transport for employees, with convoys escorted by J&K Police and support vehicles.
Medical aid points will be set up along the route at Qazigund, Banihal, Ramsu, Ramban, Chenani, Udhampur, and Jhajjar Kotli. Employees involved in the move will receive a Special Move TA of ₹25,000, but those not shifting as required will forfeit the allowance. Salary for October will be paid on October 31, with advance pay for non-gazetted staff permitted. Strict directions are in place to prevent unauthorized occupation of government accommodation, and ration supplies will be ensured at government colonies in Jammu.
The Civil Secretariat’s working hours in Jammu will be 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for the full week, and 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for departments on a six-day week. The Winter Secretariat will operate at Srinagar’s Civil Secretariat during the Move. The Estates Department will manage officer and staff accommodations as per past practice.
The Darbar Move, started by Maharaja Gulab Singh and expanded by Maharaja Ranbir Singh, not only facilitated governance but also fostered cultural integration and administrative balance between Jammu and Kashmir, despite periodic criticism over costs and logistical burdens. Its restoration is seen by many as a step to preserve J&K’s historic legacy, support economic activity, and maintain unity between the twin capitals
