Mudassir Bhat
Khalid Jehangir’s Jammu and Kashmir in India: The Saga of Development is a seminal work that meticulously charts the developmental trajectory of the region from 1947 to 2020. Employing a data-driven approach, Jehangir dismantles long-held myths and provides a granular analysis of the region’s progress, elucidating the tangible impacts of central funding and policy interventions. This review aims to delve into the intricate details of the book, offering a comprehensive critique of its content, methodology, and the broader implications it presents.
The book is divided into five chapters, each addressing a significant period in the history of Jammu and Kashmir and the impact of developmental policies on the region. The first chapter, The State and People of Kashmir: Tracing the Economic History, addresses the visibility of development despite central funding. This chapter is particularly effective in provoking thought and encouraging deeper investigation into the region’s developmental policies. Jehangir traces the economic and socio-political evolution of the region over centuries, presenting a stark contrast between the oppressive regimes of the past and the democratic governance post-1947. From indigenous rulers to the Mughals, Pathans, and Dogras, the common denominator was a repressive taxation system and a governance model that prioritized state power over individual rights. The transition from autocratic rule to democratic governance post-1947 is portrayed as a watershed moment for Jammu and Kashmir. Jehangir argues convincingly that the accession to the Indian Union marked the beginning of an era characterized by unprecedented freedom and human rights under the Indian Constitution. This period, often overlooked in mainstream discourse, is presented as a time of significant socio-economic transformation. The introduction of a more equitable revenue system and the establishment of democratic institutions are highlighted as key milestones that laid the groundwork for future development.
The second chapter, J&K in India (1947-1989): Beginning of a Saga of Development, highlights how much India invested in Kashmir and how the state government utilized these funds. Jehangir meticulously deconstructs the narrative that New Delhi has exhibited a step-motherly attitude towards Kashmir and its inhabitants. He posits that this narrative has been strategically propagated as part of a cross-border campaign aimed at tarnishing India’s image both domestically and internationally. By presenting robust data and factual analysis, Jehangir challenges these misconceptions and provides a counter-narrative that underscores the central government’s consistent developmental efforts.
The third chapter, Advent of Sponsored Militancy (1989-1998): The Forced Backslide, discusses the beginning of a tumultuous period characterized by a Pakistan-sponsored armed insurgency. This insurgency hastened J&K’s catastrophic descent into chaos and anarchy as the law-and-order machinery suffered a temporary setback due to the scale of violence perpetuated by these groups. The protracted violence and insurgency created an environment of insecurity and instability, profoundly impacting and altering the social, political, and economic landscape of J&K with far-reaching consequences. The region is yet to emerge fully from the ramifications of this period, which serve as a reminder of the multifaceted challenges and tribulations it and its people have continued to face.
The fourth chapter, Revival of Democratic Governance and The Developmental Lag (1998-2019), marked a tumultuous decade for Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) and its residents, defined by pervasive violence orchestrated by Pakistan-backed factions. A significant turning point emerged in 1996 when the state conducted elections for its legislative assembly, signifying a major democratic milestone. During this election, the J&K National Conference secured a resounding victory, capturing 57 out of 87 seats in the assembly. Following this successful electoral process, the Government of India embarked on a determined path to quell Pakistan’s proxy violence and intensify developmental initiatives for the region. The economic trajectory of the former state of Jammu and Kashmir between 1998 and 2019 presents a complex interplay of factors that have significantly influenced its financial landscape. This period was marked by distinctive trends, with the state receiving a disproportionately high share of central grants, prompting a deep examination of its economic dynamics. A pivotal report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) in 2016 shed light on the state’s exceptional reliance on central funds, revealing stark discrepancies in grant distribution compared to other states, particularly in contrast with Uttar Pradesh. This chapter delves into the economic situation of Jammu and Kashmir during the specified period, emphasizing its financial dependency, resource allocation, and implications for sustainable development.
The fifth chapter, Unleashing the Growth Impetus: J&K Since the Repeal of Article 370, discusses the landmark event in India’s post-independence political trajectory when its parliament approved the constitutional realignment of the relationship between the Union of India and the State of Jammu and Kashmir by de-operationalizing Article 370. This radical departure by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government from the approach of previous governments in New Delhi is considered as rectifying a long-standing constitutional anomaly from the Nehruvian era to pave the way for a comprehensive integration of J&K with the rest of the country. Jehangir provides a detailed account of the developments that have ensued since the abrogation of Article 370. Contrary to the pessimistic forecasts of some critics, the book presents compelling evidence of a surge in developmental activities post-2019. The data presented is both comprehensive and convincing, encompassing a wide array of sectors including infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, and more.
One of the most notable achievements highlighted in the book is the significant improvement in infrastructure and connectivity. The construction of 17601 km of roads under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna, connecting 2074 destinations, is a testament to the central government’s commitment to enhancing connectivity in the region. The inauguration of the Banihal-Sangaldan Railway Line, with an expenditure of Rs 15,863 crore, is another landmark achievement. This railway line is set to revolutionize transportation in Kashmir, providing a critical link that will facilitate economic growth and social mobility. The advancements in healthcare and education sectors are equally impressive. The establishment of two new All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), seven new medical colleges, two state cancer institutes, and 15 nursing colleges with an intake capacity of 854 students marks a significant leap forward. Additionally, the operationalization of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Jammu and the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu underscores the region’s burgeoning educational infrastructure. The increase in the number of government degree/engineering colleges from 96 to 147 further highlights the emphasis on education as a cornerstone of development.
Jehangir also sheds light on the strides made in the agricultural and industrial sectors. The GI (Geographical Indication) tagging of Kashmiri saffron is a noteworthy development that has boosted the region’s agricultural profile. The extension of the high-density plantation scheme to include fruits like mango, litchi, walnut, and cherry demonstrates a concerted effort to diversify agricultural production. On the industrial front, the book details the substantial investments in various projects, including the revival of power projects with a joint capacity of about 3000 MW and the receipt of industrial investment applications worth over Rs 54,000 crore. The Jal Jeevan Mission’s implementation in Jammu and Kashmir is another significant milestone. The book reports that Srinagar and Ganderbal now boast 100% allocation of water to all households, with tap water connections in other districts increasing from 5.75 lakh households (31%) to 10.55 lakh households (57%). The completion of key irrigation projects like the main Ravi canal, Tral lift-irrigation, and flood management cum irrigation on the Jhelum river underscores the focus on enhancing agricultural productivity and water security. Employment generation has been a critical focus area, and Jehangir provides detailed accounts of various initiatives aimed at creating job opportunities. The book reports that around 30,000 youths have been employed in the last three years, with self-employment schemes providing income opportunities for approximately 5 lakh people. These initiatives are crucial in addressing the high unemployment rates and fostering economic stability in the region.
The book concludes with a vision for the future, emphasizing the need for sustained developmental efforts to ensure long-term peace and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir. Jehangir argues that the transformative impact of recent policies and initiatives is beginning to be felt on the ground, with a palpable shift in public perception. The book posits that the abrogation of Article 370, far from being an impediment, has actually catalyzed a new era of development and integration.
Overall, Khalid Jehangir’s Jammu and Kashmir in India: The Saga of Development is a landmark contribution to the discourse on Kashmir’s development. Through its data-driven approach and comprehensive analysis, the book challenges prevailing narratives and provides a fresh perspective on the region’s progress. It is an essential read for policymakers, scholars, and anyone interested in understanding the true developmental journey of Jammu and Kashmir. The book stands as a testament to the transformative power of sustained developmental efforts and the promise of a brighter future for the region. The book is available on Amazon at the following link: https://www.amazon.in/Jammu-Kashmir-India-Saga-Development/dp/8119670132/
(Mudassir Bhat is an independent observer focusing on politics in Pakistan. He is based in Abu Dhabi)
