Union Territory Profile: Jammu & Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir, often referred to as “Paradise on Earth”, is a land of unparalleled beauty, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas. Known for its breathtaking valleys, lakes, and snow-capped mountains, living in Jammu and Kashmir means being surrounded by nature’s finest landscapes. The state’s iconic spots like Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam are known for their serene beauty, attracting tourists from around the world.

The people of Jammu and Kashmir are known for their hospitality, resilience, and rich cultural heritage. The state is a hub for handicrafts, particularly Pashmina shawls, carpets, and papier-mâché works, which are highly valued globally. Agriculture plays a vital role, with saffron, apples, and dry fruits being major exports.

Jammu and Kashmir also offers immense potential in tourism, hydropower, and education, with a growing emphasis on infrastructure development. Live in the land of natural beauty, where tranquility meets opportunity, and experience a life surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and a vibrant culture.

Here is a detailed profile of Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory, covering all the requested aspects:

General Information

• Union Territory Name: Jammu and Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir is a Union Territory in the northernmost part of India. It was once a state before its special status under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution was revoked in August 2019. The region now functions as a Union Territory with a legislative assembly.
• Abbreviation: J&K, The commonly used abbreviation for Jammu and Kashmir is “J&K.”
• Capital: Srinagar (summer), Jammu (winter), Jammu and Kashmir has two capitals. Srinagar serves as the summer capital, located in the Kashmir Valley, while Jammu is the winter capital, situated in the southern part of the region.
• Largest City: Srinagar is the largest city in the Union Territory and is known for its picturesque beauty, including its famous Dal Lake, houseboats, and Mughal Gardens. The city is also a major hub for trade, tourism, and culture.
• Area: 55,538 square kilometers, Jammu and Kashmir spans an area of approximately 55,538 square kilometers. It is bordered by Pakistan to the west, China to the north and northeast, and the Indian states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab to the south.
• Population: Approximately 13 million (as per the 2021 Census), The population of Jammu and Kashmir has seen fluctuations over the years due to migration, both internal and external. The population is diverse, with a mix of ethnicities, religions, and cultures.
• Official Language: Urdu, Kashmiri, Hindi, Dogri, Urdu is the official language, but Kashmiri, Hindi, and Dogri are also widely spoken in different regions of the Union Territory. Other languages like Pahari, Punjabi, and Ladakhi are spoken in specific areas.
• State Animal: Hangul (Kashmir Stag), The Hangul, or Kashmir Stag, is a critically endangered species and is native to the Kashmir Valley. It is also the state animal of Jammu and Kashmir, symbolizing the rich biodiversity of the region.
• State Bird: Western Tragopan, The Western Tragopan, a species of pheasant found in the forests of Jammu and Kashmir, is the state bird. It is a symbol of the region’s rich avian diversity.
• State Tree: Chinar, The Chinar tree, with its large and beautiful leaves, is a symbolic tree of Jammu and Kashmir. It is often associated with the region’s cultural identity and is widely found in the Kashmir Valley.
• State Flower: Lotus, The Lotus is the state flower of Jammu and Kashmir. It is often seen blooming in the Dal Lake, symbolizing purity, beauty, and serenity.

Geography

Jammu and Kashmir is located in the northernmost region of India. The Union Territory is characterized by a diverse topography, with mountainous terrains, lush valleys, and river systems.

• Mountain Ranges: Jammu and Kashmir is home to the majestic Himalayan mountain ranges. The region also includes parts of the Pir Panjal and Zanskar ranges, which contribute to the stunning landscapes of the region.
• Valleys: The Kashmir Valley is famous for its scenic beauty, with numerous lakes, gardens, and rivers. The Jammu region is a mix of hilly and plains areas.
• Rivers: Major rivers flowing through Jammu and Kashmir include the Jhelum River, Chenab, and Ravi, which are key to irrigation and provide water resources to the region.
• Climate: The region experiences a temperate climate with cold winters and moderate summers, especially in the Kashmir Valley. The areas around Jammu have a subtropical climate with hot summers.

Administrative Divisions

• Jammu and Kashmir is divided into 20 districts. The state is also divided into 2 divisions for administrative convenience.
• The state capital, Jammu(summer) & Srinagar(winter) , is the hub of the state government, while Jammu is a major industrial and commercial center.

Here’s a table listing the 2 administrative divisions of Jammu & Kashmir, along with their respective districts:

The Union Territory has a total of 20 districts, and each district is further divided into sub-districts and administrative blocks.

Economy

The economy of Jammu and Kashmir is driven by a mix of agriculture, handicrafts, tourism, and small-scale industries. Despite its natural wealth, the region faces economic challenges due to political instability and regional conflict.

• Agriculture: The state’s economy has historically been based on agriculture, with major crops like rice, saffron, wheat, apples, cherries, and dry fruits. Kashmir is also known for its saffron cultivation, and the region’s climate is ideal for cultivating apples.
• Handicrafts: Jammu and Kashmir is renowned for its handicrafts, including Kashmiri shawls, carpets, woodwork, papier-mâché, and embroidery. These products are famous worldwide and form an important part of the state’s economy.
• Tourism: Jammu and Kashmir is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in India, with tourists flocking to sites such as Dal Lake, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg. The state also hosts pilgrimage tourism, with important sites like Vaishno Devi, Amarnath, and Hazratbal Shrine.
• Small-scale Industries: In addition to agriculture and handicrafts, there is a small manufacturing sector, including the production of silk, handlooms, and cottage industries.

Culture and Heritage

Jammu and Kashmir boasts a rich cultural history, shaped by the interaction of Persian, Central Asian, Tibetan, and Indian cultures. This blend is reflected in the region’s architecture, music, dance, art, and cuisine.

• Cuisine: Kashmiri cuisine is famous for its distinctive flavors. Dishes like Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, Dum Aloo, and Kahwa are widely consumed. The food is characterized by the use of rich spices, including saffron, and often includes meat-based dishes.
• Music and Dance: Traditional Kashmiri music includes Sufiana and Folk Music. The region’s folk dances such as Rouf and Hafiz Nagma are also popular.
• Festivals: Festivals like Eid, Diwali, Baisakhi, and Lohri are celebrated with much zeal. In addition, festivals like the Tulip Festival and Shikara Festival in Srinagar attract tourists from across the globe.

Religion

Jammu and Kashmir is religiously diverse, but Islam is the predominant religion, especially in the Kashmir Valley. The Jammu region is primarily Hindu, while the region also has a significant Sikh and Buddhist population.

• Hinduism: The Vaishno Devi Temple and the Amarnath Cave are major pilgrimage sites for Hindus.
• Islam: Sufi Islam has a strong influence in Kashmir, and religious shrines like Hazratbal and Shah-i-Hamdan are revered by Muslims.
• Buddhism: There is a significant Buddhist population in the Ladakh region, with monasteries like Hemis Monastery and Thiksey Monastery being central to Buddhist practices.

Education

Jammu and Kashmir has a growing education system, with several well-established educational institutions.

• University of Kashmir and Islamic University of Science and Technology are the major higher education institutions.
• The literacy rate has steadily increased in the region, although challenges remain, especially in rural and conflict-affected areas.
• Schools are both government-funded and private, with the government offering a range of schemes to improve literacy rates and educational infrastructure.

Politics

Jammu and Kashmir has had a complex political landscape, primarily due to the ongoing territorial dispute with Pakistan. The revocation of Article 370 in 2019 was a landmark moment in the region’s political history.

• Special Status: Article 370 granted Jammu and Kashmir special autonomy, allowing it to have its own constitution. This was revoked, bringing Jammu and Kashmir under the same legal framework as the other states in India.
• Political Parties: Major political parties include the National Conference (NC), People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Indian National Congress (INC).

Famous Personalities

• Shah Faisal: Former IAS officer and political leader.
• Mehbooba Mufti: Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.
• Mirwaiz Umar Farooq: Religious and political leader of Kashmir.
• Zubin Mehta: Renowned conductor, born in Srinagar.

Notable Landmarks

1. Dal Lake: Famous for its houseboats and shikaras, a major tourist attraction.
2. Vaishno Devi: A revered Hindu pilgrimage site.
3. Amarnath Cave: Sacred to Hindus, it attracts millions of pilgrims annually.
4. Shankaracharya Temple: Situated in Srinagar, offering panoramic views of the city.
5. Mughal Gardens: Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Chashme Shahi are famous Mughal gardens.

Social Challenges

• Conflict: Jammu and Kashmir has been marred by political unrest, violence, and territorial disputes. The Kashmir conflict has led to loss of lives and disrupted everyday life.
• Poverty: Despite natural wealth, poverty remains widespread due to political instability and unemployment.
• Displacement: Both internal and external migration has caused displacement for many people in the region.

Environmental Challenges

• Deforestation: Over-exploitation of forest resources has led to environmental degradation and soil erosion in some areas.
• Pollution: Srinagar and other urban centers face problems of air and water pollution, mainly due to industrial activity, urbanization, and tourism.
• Climate Change: The region is facing the effects of climate change, such as erratic weather patterns, more frequent floods, and the melting of glaciers in the Himalayan ranges.

This detailed profile provides an in-depth look at Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory, touching upon its geography, history, economy, culture, and challenges.

Government of India Support to Citizens of This Districts

Certainly! Here’s the updated table with an additional column, “Government of India Support”, indicating the primary support or schemes provided by the Government of India to the citizens of each district. These schemes could include government welfare programs, agricultural subsidies, industrial support, infrastructure development, healthcare initiatives, and more.

Here is a detailed table that includes the district number, district name, economic importance (rated on a scale of 1-10), major key economic activities, and government support:

Explanation of Major Key Economic Activity

• Agriculture: This refers to the cultivation of food crops (like rice, wheat, maize), cash crops (such as saffron, apples, and nuts), and horticulture products (fruits and flowers). Agriculture is a major economic activity in many of Jammu and Kashmir’s districts, especially in rural areas.
• Horticulture: Jammu and Kashmir is well-known for its rich horticulture, particularly in apples, cherries, and saffron. The production of these fruits has a significant role in the economy, especially in districts like Anantnag, Pulwama, and Shopian.
• Handicrafts: Traditional handicrafts, including Kashmiri shawls, carpets, paper-mâché products, and wood carvings, are significant contributors to the economy, especially in districts like Srinagar, Baramulla, and Budgam.
• Tourism: The tourism sector is a key contributor to the local economy. Destinations like Dal Lake in Srinagar, Vaishno Devi temple in Jammu, and other valleys and pilgrimage sites attract millions of visitors each year. Tourism provides employment and revenue to the region.
• Livestock and Dairy: In rural areas, livestock farming (especially for cattle and goats) and dairy farming form the backbone of the local economy.

Explanation of Parameters of Level (1-10)

The level of importance in the economy (ranging from 1-10) refers to the economic contribution of a district to India as a whole. It is determined by:

• Scale of Economic Activity: Larger sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism contribute more significantly.
• Contribution to National GDP: Areas that contribute to India’s GDP (such as major agricultural or industrial hubs) rank higher.
• Government Support: The level of government initiatives, schemes, and financial investment to foster economic growth in the district.
• Employment Generation: Higher levels of employment generation in key industries like agriculture, tourism, and handicrafts increase the district’s ranking.
• Diversification of Economic Activities: Districts with a diverse set of economic activities (agriculture, industrial growth, tourism, etc.) rank higher.

Level 1: Minimal economic impact, reliant on basic agriculture or small-scale activities.
Level 10: High economic significance, contributing heavily to the national economy, with major infrastructure projects, industrial growth, and high levels of tourism and exports.

Disputed Area: Gilgit-Baltistan Region and India’s Stand

The region of Gilgit-Baltistan, located to the north of Ladakh, is a part of the broader Kashmir conflict between India and Pakistan. It forms an integral part of the Jammu and Kashmir state, which is claimed in full by India.

Gilgit-Baltistan’s Strategic Location

• Gilgit-Baltistan lies in the northernmost region of Pakistan and shares a direct border with Ladakh. It is strategically located as it lies near the Karakoram Range, China, and India’s Ladakh region.
• It is rich in natural resources and has a crucial position in terms of regional connectivity.

Dispute with Pakistan

• India’s Stand: India maintains that Gilgit-Baltistan is part of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, which is legally an integral part of India. India’s position on this region is the same as its stance on the Aksai Chin region and Shaksgam Valley in Ladakh. India asserts that the entire Jammu and Kashmir region, including Gilgit-Baltistan, was illegally occupied by Pakistan after the 1947 partition.India continues to claim Gilgit-Baltistan as part of its territory, and the region is considered an essential part of the ongoing territorial dispute over Jammu and Kashmir.
• Pakistan’s Stand: Pakistan administers Gilgit-Baltistan and has granted it a degree of autonomy. Pakistan refers to it as part of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), which is claimed by Pakistan as part of the larger Jammu and Kashmir region.The Pakistan administration has also been in a dispute with China regarding the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which passes through Gilgit-Baltistan. India has strongly objected to the development of CPEC projects in the region, as they are being conducted on land that India considers its own.

China’s Role

• China is also involved in the dispute, especially regarding Shaksgam Valley (which is part of Gilgit-Baltistan) and the Karakoram Highway, which connects Pakistan to China through Gilgit-Baltistan. India asserts that China’s occupation of Shaksgam Valley is illegal, as the territory was ceded by Pakistan to China in a 1963 border agreement, which India does not recognize.

Summary of India’s Position on Gilgit-Baltistan

• India’s Position: Gilgit-Baltistan is an integral part of Indian Jammu and Kashmir and remains under illegal occupation by Pakistan. India rejects Pakistan’s administrative actions in the region and considers its activities in Gilgit-Baltistan as violating India’s sovereignty. Additionally, India strongly opposes any development projects, including CPEC, being conducted by Pakistan and China in the region.

In conclusion, the Gilgit-Baltistan region, along with Aksai Chin and Shaksgam Valley, forms a core part of the India-Pakistan and India-China territorial disputes. India’s stance on these regions remains unchanged, asserting its sovereignty over the entire Jammu and Kashmir region.

Disputed Area: Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and India’s Stand

Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) is a region administered by Pakistan, but it is also claimed in full by India as part of Jammu and Kashmir, which India considers an integral part of its sovereign territory. The area is located to the west of the Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, and it shares its borders with Pakistan-administered Gilgit-Baltistan (also claimed by India), as well as the Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir.

Historical Context of the Dispute

• Partition of India in 1947: When British India was partitioned in 1947, the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir was given the choice of joining either India or Pakistan. The region had a Muslim-majority population, but the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir, Hari Singh, initially chose to remain independent. Amid rising tribal invasions from Pakistan, the Maharaja signed the Instrument of Accession to India, thereby acceding to India’s sovereignty.
• Pakistan’s Reaction: Pakistan contested this accession and launched military aggression, resulting in the first India-Pakistan war (1947-1948). By the end of the war in 1948, the region was divided, with Pakistan controlling Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan, and India controlling Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh.
• The United Nations Ceasefire Line: The Line of Control (LoC) was drawn as a result of the 1948 UN-mediated ceasefire. It divides Jammu and Kashmir into Indian-administered and Pakistani-administered areas. AJK is part of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, while the region of Jammu and Kashmir is governed by India.

Dispute Over Azad Jammu and Kashmir

1. India’s Stand:
   • India claims the entire Jammu and Kashmir region, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), as part of its sovereign territory. India does not recognize Pakistan-administered Kashmir as Azad Jammu and Kashmir but considers it an illegal occupation of Indian territory by Pakistan.
   • India argues that the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to India, signed by the then Maharaja Hari Singh, is legally binding, and thus the entire region, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir, remains an integral part of India.
   • India also contests Pakistan’s ongoing administration of the region, considering it a violation of international law and the United Nations resolutions on Kashmir.
2. Pakistan’s Stand:
   • Pakistan administers Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, referring to them collectively as Azad Kashmir. Pakistan has granted AJK a degree of autonomy, although it still exercises control over its foreign policy and military.
   • Pakistan considers Azad Jammu and Kashmir to be part of the broader Kashmir dispute and a region where the people’s right to self-determination should be recognized.
   • The Pakistan government considers Jammu and Kashmir (both AJK and Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir) as disputed territories, with the region’s final status yet to be determined through a UN-mandated plebiscite.
3. Kashmir Conflict and International Stance:
   • The dispute over Azad Jammu and Kashmir, along with other areas of Jammu and Kashmir, has resulted in several wars between India and Pakistan (1947-48, 1965, and 1999).
   • The UN Resolutions on Kashmir have called for a plebiscite in the region, allowing the people to decide their future. However, these resolutions have not been implemented due to differences over the terms of the plebiscite and the evolving geopolitical situation.

Geopolitical Significance

• Strategic Importance: Azad Jammu and Kashmir is located in a strategically significant area, as it borders both Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan-administered Gilgit-Baltistan. The region lies along the Line of Control (LoC), a heavily militarized zone where regular skirmishes have occurred between India and Pakistan.
• Cultural and Demographic Composition: The population of Azad Jammu and Kashmir is predominantly Muslim, with many people sharing cultural, linguistic, and historical ties with the population of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir. This shared identity plays a key role in the ongoing dispute.

India’s Firm Stand on Azad Jammu and Kashmir

• India’s Position on the Kashmir Dispute: India’s position remains firm on the claim that the entire region of Jammu and Kashmir, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Aksai Chin, and Ladakh, is an integral part of India. The Indian government strongly opposes Pakistan’s administrative actions in the region and considers the actions of both Pakistan and China in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan to be illegal.
• Post-Article 370 Developments: After the revocation of Article 370 in August 2019, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, India has emphasized that its sovereignty over the entire region is non-negotiable, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan has repeatedly criticized this move, but India has maintained that the abrogation was an internal matter and has reinforced its territorial claims over the entire Jammu and Kashmir region.

Summary of India’s Position on Azad Jammu & Kashmir

• India claims Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) as part of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir.
• India views Pakistan’s control over Azad Jammu and Kashmir as illegal occupation.
• India continues to assert that the entire Jammu and Kashmir region, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Ladakh, is an integral part of India.
• Pakistan’s administration of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan is considered an ongoing violation of India’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

In conclusion, Azad Jammu and Kashmir remains a crucial part of the larger India-Pakistan territorial dispute. India’s stance is clear and consistent in asserting its territorial rights over the entire region of Jammu and Kashmir, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir, while Pakistan continues to maintain control and claims the region as part of Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The dispute remains unresolved and continues to be a source of tension between the two nations.

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Disclaimer: The information provided here has been compiled from various sources to the best of our knowledge. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the details, there may be occasional errors or omissions. If you find any discrepancies or incorrect information, kindly inform us so we can make the necessary corrections. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.