Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir is a Union Territory (UT) of India, located in the northernmost part of the country. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and rich cultural heritage, it occupies a strategic position in the Himalayan region. The Union Territory, carved out after the reorganisation of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, holds immense geopolitical, historical, and cultural significance.

Geographical Overview

Jammu and Kashmir shares international borders with Pakistan and China, and domestic boundaries with Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab. The Union Territory covers an area of approximately 55,538 square kilometres and comprises two main divisions:

• Jammu Division, consisting mainly of plains and hills, and
• Kashmir Valley, known for its alpine beauty and fertile terrain.

The territory is traversed by major mountain ranges such as the Pir Panjal and the Great Himalayas, with peaks like Nanga Parbat and Kolhoi Glacier dominating the landscape. The Jhelum, Chenab, Tawi, and Indus rivers form the region’s primary water systems, supporting agriculture and hydropower generation.
The climate varies sharply: Jammu experiences subtropical conditions, while the Kashmir Valley has a temperate climate with cold winters and moderate summers.

Historical Background

The region of Jammu and Kashmir has a long and complex history that blends mythology, dynastic rule, and colonial politics. Ancient texts, including the Nilamata Purana and Rajatarangini (written by Kalhana in the 12th century), trace its origins to early Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
During the medieval period, the area came under Muslim rule with the establishment of the Shah Mir dynasty in the 14th century. Later, the Mughals, under Emperor Akbar, annexed Kashmir in 1586. After the decline of Mughal power, the Afghans and subsequently the Sikhs under Maharaja Ranjit Singh ruled the region.
In 1846, following the Treaty of Amritsar, the Dogra ruler Gulab Singh purchased Kashmir from the British and founded the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. The Dogra dynasty ruled until 1947, when India gained independence.
After the Partition of India, the princely state became the subject of dispute between India and Pakistan. Following tribal invasions supported by Pakistan, Maharaja Hari Singh signed the Instrument of Accession in October 1947, formally integrating Jammu and Kashmir into India. Subsequent wars and the Line of Control (LoC) established in 1949 defined the current boundaries, with India administering roughly two-thirds of the territory.

Constitutional and Political Reorganisation

For decades, Jammu and Kashmir enjoyed special constitutional status under Article 370 and Article 35A of the Indian Constitution, granting it autonomy in legislative and administrative matters. However, on 5 August 2019, the Government of India revoked Article 370 through a constitutional order, abrogating the special status and reorganising the state into two Union Territories — Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, effective 31 October 2019.
The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, provided for an elected Legislative Assembly in Jammu and Kashmir, while Ladakh was created as a separate Union Territory without one. The Lieutenant Governor serves as the constitutional head of the UT.

Administrative Divisions

The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir consists of 20 districts, including Jammu, Kathua, Rajouri, Poonch, Udhampur, Reasi, Srinagar, Anantnag, Baramulla, Kupwara, Pulwama, and Budgam. The administrative headquarters are located in Srinagar (summer capital) and Jammu (winter capital).
The governance structure includes an elected legislative assembly, panchayati raj institutions, and a bureaucratic apparatus under the Lieutenant Governor. The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh exercises jurisdiction over both Union Territories.

Demography and Culture

According to the 2011 Census, Jammu and Kashmir had a population of around 12.5 million. The major ethnic groups include Kashmiris, Dogras, Gujjars, Paharis, and Bakarwals.
Religiously, Islam is the predominant faith in the Kashmir Valley, while Hinduism and Sikhism are more prevalent in the Jammu region. The official languages include Urdu, Hindi, English, Kashmiri, Dogri, and Punjabi.
The culture of the region reflects a confluence of Persian, Central Asian, and Indian influences. Kashmiri handicrafts — such as Pashmina shawls, carpets, and papier-mâché — are world famous. The Dogra culture of Jammu is noted for its temples, folklore, and traditional attire. The local cuisine includes Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, and Modur Pulao, often prepared with aromatic spices and saffron.

Economy and Industry

The economy of Jammu and Kashmir is primarily agrarian, supplemented by horticulture, handicrafts, and tourism.

• Apples, saffron, walnuts, and almonds are major horticultural exports.
• Handwoven carpets and Pashmina wool from Kashmir have global demand.
• Tourism remains a vital economic contributor, with destinations such as Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and Vaishno Devi drawing millions of visitors annually.

In recent years, the government has prioritised industrial diversification, IT infrastructure, and hydropower development. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway and Banihal–Qazigund Tunnel have improved inter-regional connectivity.

Tourism and Heritage

Jammu and Kashmir’s scenic beauty has earned it the title “Paradise on Earth”. Notable tourist destinations include:

• Srinagar – famous for Dal Lake, houseboats, and Mughal gardens.
• Gulmarg – a premier skiing and adventure sports destination.
• Pahalgam – gateway to the Amarnath Yatra, an important Hindu pilgrimage.
• Vaishno Devi Temple, near Katra – one of India’s most visited shrines.
• Amarnath Cave – sacred to Lord Shiva, attracting pilgrims each summer.

The region also boasts architectural landmarks such as Shankaracharya Temple, Hazratbal Shrine, and Martand Sun Temple.

Education and Health

The Union Territory hosts several prominent institutions including the University of Kashmir, University of Jammu, and Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST). Special initiatives like the Prime Minister’s Special Scholarship Scheme (PMSSS) aim to enhance access to higher education.
Healthcare services are improving through projects like the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, which offers free health coverage to residents. The government continues to expand hospitals and medical colleges across both divisions.

Security and Geopolitical Significance

Jammu and Kashmir remains a strategically vital region due to its proximity to Pakistan and China. The Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan and the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China make it a sensitive border area. Security challenges, including cross-border terrorism, insurgency, and infiltration, have influenced both domestic and international policies.
Following the abrogation of Article 370, security measures were intensified to maintain peace and law and order. Counterinsurgency operations, rehabilitation policies, and cross-border confidence-building measures continue under national and state initiatives.

Environmental and Ecological Aspects

Jammu and Kashmir possess rich biodiversity, encompassing alpine meadows, dense forests, and glacial lakes. The Dachigam National Park (home to the Hangul deer) and Hemis National Park (shared with Ladakh) are among the region’s key conservation sites.
However, environmental issues such as deforestation, urbanisation, and climate change-induced glacier retreat threaten ecological balance. Efforts are underway to promote eco-tourism, afforestation, and renewable energy projects.