The autumn assembly session ended in Srinagar today. With it came the close of the Darbar Move for this year. For the first time since 2019, the entire government will now shift to Jammu for winter. This old practice began long ago in the Dogra period. It helped leaders escape the cold of Kashmir and the heat of Jammu. Many call it costly, but others see it as a way to bring the two regions closer.
This session was short, yet full of hope. Leaders spoke about better roads, more jobs for youth, and growth in tourism. These are needs felt in both Jammu and Kashmir. New rules on land and extra funds for smart cities in both places show a fair approach. Everyone agreed to speed up the Jammu-Srinagar highway and the rail link. Good connections can reduce distance and doubt.
Now, the real work begins. Promises must turn into action. In the past, good ideas stayed only on paper. Jammu’s shopkeepers and hotel owners wait for busy days ahead. When offices move, so do people and money. A little care can turn this into real gain for local families.
Some say the Darbar Move is old-fashioned and expensive. Others feel it keeps both regions in the government’s heart. In a place hurt by years of mistrust, small steps matter. When people see leaders in their city, trust grows.
As the files travel to Jammu, let this be more than habit. Let the plans for factories in Jammu and apple farms in Kashmir both come true. The people here want the same thing: peace, work, and respect. Winter is coming to the Valley. May Jammu’s welcome light a shared path forward.
