Suhail Khan
On August 5, 2019, the revocation of Article 370 marked a turning point for Jammu & Kashmir (J&K), ending its special constitutional status and ushering in a new era of integration with India. Once plagued by hartals, stone-pelting, and unrest, J&K is now synonymous with progress, connectivity, and opportunity. In just over five years, the region has undergone a remarkable transformation, with highways replacing hartals and development driving a vibrant future. From infrastructure marvels to advancements in healthcare, education, governance, and tourism, J&K is scripting a story of hope and healing.
Highways of Progress: Infrastructure Revolution
The shift from hartals to highways is most evident in J&K’s infrastructure boom. The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), a monumental project navigating the rugged Himalayan terrain, is nearing completion. At its heart lies the Chenab Railway Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge at 359 meters above the riverbed. This engineering masterpiece symbolizes J&K’s integration with India, cutting travel time from over 10 hours by road to under four hours by rail. Once operational, it will boost trade, tourism, and mobility, connecting the Kashmir Valley to the nation’s economic mainstream.
The Banihal-Qazigund Road Tunnel, an 8.5-kilometer marvel completed in 2021, has slashed travel time between Jammu and Srinagar by an hour, ensuring safer and more reliable journeys, even in harsh winters. Similarly, the Zojila Tunnel, set for completion by 2026, will provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh, a region previously isolated during snowfall. This 14.2-kilometer tunnel is creating thousands of jobs and invigorating local economies. These highways and rail links are not just infrastructure; they are lifelines fostering economic empowerment and regional unity.
Healthcare and Education: Building a Stronger Society
Post-2019, J&K has seen significant strides in healthcare and education, replacing the disruptions of hartals with opportunities for growth. The establishment of two All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Jammu and Awantipora has transformed healthcare access. Equipped with cutting-edge facilities, these institutions address long-standing gaps in medical infrastructure. The Ayushman Bharat-SEHAT scheme has further revolutionized public welfare, offering free healthcare coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family. In 2023, over 1.5 million residents benefited from this scheme, accessing treatments for critical illnesses that were once out of reach.
Education has also taken a leap forward. Since 2019, over 50 new degree colleges have been established, expanding access to higher education in rural areas like Kupwara and Bandipora. Digital classrooms with smart boards and high-speed internet have bridged the urban-rural divide, while the Samagra Shiksha program has upgraded over 20,000 schools with better facilities and teaching resources. These initiatives are empowering J&K’s youth to pursue careers in technology, medicine, and entrepreneurship, paving the way for a skilled and vibrant workforce.
From Unrest to Peace: A Cultural Shift
The decline of hartals and violence is one of J&K’s most significant achievements since 2019. Stone-pelting incidents, which peaked at 2,653 in 2016, have plummeted to fewer than 50 in 2024, according to official data. This transformation stems from robust law enforcement, the dismantling of terror networks, and a shift in focus from separatism to development. Srinagar’s streets, once paralyzed by shutdowns, now buzz with tourists, students, and vendors. Dal Lake, for instance, welcomed over 2.5 million visitors in 2024, a record that underscores the region’s revival as a tourism hub.
Empowering the Grassroots: Governance and Youth
The 2020 District Development Council (DDC) elections marked a milestone in decentralized governance, empowering 280 elected representatives to shape local policies. Initiatives like Mission Youth, Back to Village, and My Town My Pride have brought governance closer to the people. Mission Youth has supported over 50,000 young entrepreneurs with skill development and startup grants, fostering ventures in agriculture, handicrafts, and technology. Sports have also emerged as a tool for engagement, with events like the Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg inspiring thousands. Arif Khan, a J&K skier who competed in the 2022 Winter Olympics, exemplifies the region’s growing sporting prowess.
Tourism: A Thriving Industry
Tourism, once stifled by unrest, is now a cornerstone of J&K’s economy. In 2024, Gulmarg welcomed over 1.2 million visitors, drawn to its ski resorts and scenic beauty. Pahalgam and Sonmarg have also seen a surge in tourism, with homestays and local businesses flourishing. The Amarnath Yatra, supported by enhanced security and facilities, has drawn millions of pilgrims annually. These developments have revitalized J&K’s economy and restored its global reputation as a premier tourist destination.
Challenges and the Path Forward
Despite the progress, challenges like unemployment among educated youth and sporadic militancy persist. However, initiatives like the “One District, One Product” scheme, promoting local crafts such as Pashmina shawls and Kashmiri carpets, are creating sustainable livelihoods. The government’s focus on inclusive development ensures these issues are being addressed systematically.
Conclusion: A Vibrant Future Awaits
From the hartals that once defined J&K to the highways now driving its progress, the region is undergoing a profound transformation. The Chenab Railway Bridge, Ayushman Bharat-SEHAT, and booming tourism are testaments to this change. The decline in violence and the rise of youth empowerment signal a new era of peace and prosperity. While challenges remain, the foundation laid since August 5, 2019, ensures that J&K is on a highway to a vibrant, inclusive future, leaving behind the shadows of its past.
