Five Years On: The Transformative Impact of Abrogating Article 370 on Jammu and Kashmir

Bharath Nanda

On August 5, 2019, a transformative moment in Indian history occurred with the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution. This Article had granted special autonomous status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). The move was not merely a political shift but represented a profound change aimed at thoroughly integrating J&K with the rest of India. As we reach the fifth anniversary of this landmark decision, it is clear that the abrogation has led to notable changes across various sectors, heralding a new era for Jammu and Kashmir.
One of the most significant outcomes of the abrogation of Article 370 has been the restoration of peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir. For over three decades, the region, particularly the Kashmir Valley, experienced continuous conflict, insurgency, and disruptions that severely impacted daily life and socio-economic conditions. The removal of Article 370 marked a turning point in this long-standing turbulence. The abrogation led to a remarkable transformation in public and social life, allowing many areas to return to a more stable and routine existence. The relative calm experienced in recent years is a testament to the success of this policy shift in reducing the frequency and intensity of disturbances. This newfound stability has been crucial for rebuilding trust within local communities and reestablishing a sense of normalcy that had been long absent.
A key development following the abrogation of Article 370 has been the influx of investment into Jammu and Kashmir. The improved security situation and proactive government policies have played a significant role in attracting substantial outside investment. Since August 5, 2019, the region has seen investments totaling Rs 5,319.35 crore. This influx represents a significant vote of confidence from both domestic and international investors in the region’s potential. The industrial sector in Jammu and Kashmir has garnered considerable interest, with both domestic and international investors eager to explore its untapped potential. The government’s proactive policies and incentives, introduced after the abrogation of Article 370, have been instrumental in this development. As a result, the region has received investment proposals amounting to Rs 84,544 crore across 42 different industrial sectors. This surge in investment reflects growing confidence in J&K’s economic prospects and is expected to drive substantial growth and development. The investments span a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, technology, and tourism. These investments create job opportunities, boost local industries, and contribute to the overall economic development of the region.
Tourism industry, has also experienced significant growth in J&K. The region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and religious significance make it a popular tourist destination. 34,70,834 tourists visited J&K in 2020 and since then there has been a consistent rise in the numbers. Last year the number rose to 2,11,24,874; and till June this year, 1,08,41,009 tourists have visited Jammu & Kashmir, indicating a robust recovery and growing appeal of the region as a tourist destination. The influx of tourists has had a positive impact on local businesses, hospitality services, and the overall economy of the region. The government has also taken steps to enhance the tourism infrastructure, including the development of new tourist attractions, improvements in transportation facilities, and promotional campaigns. These efforts have contributed to the resurgence of tourism and have helped in showcasing Jammu and Kashmir’s rich cultural and natural heritage to a global audience.
Infrastructure development has witnessed remarkable progress since 2019. The construction of roads, bridges, and tunnels has been a common sight in Jammu and Kashmir, but recent advancements in rail connectivity have been particularly noteworthy. One of the most significant infrastructure projects is the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, which aims to connect Srinagar with the rest of India. The Banihal-Sangaldan stretch of this rail link was inaugurated by the Prime Minister in February, marking a significant milestone in improving connectivity. This extension of train services is to provide a reliable alternative for travelers and alleviate the impact of landslides on the national highway between Ramban and Banihal, which has been a major challenge in the region.
In addition to rail connectivity, Katra, a city serving as the base camp for the Vaishno Devi shrine, now hosts two Vande Bharat trains connecting it to New Delhi. This development has further enhanced connectivity and convenience for pilgrims and travelers, making it easier to access one of the region’s most important religious sites. The focus on infrastructure development is to have a lasting impact on the region’s economic growth and quality of life. Improved transportation and connectivity are crucial for facilitating trade, tourism, and overall regional integration. The ongoing and planned infrastructure projects are set to play a key role in shaping the future development of Jammu and Kashmir.
The hosting of international events in Jammu and Kashmir has marked a significant shift in the region’s cultural landscape. The G20 summit and F-4 racing event held in Kashmir garnered global attention, showcasing the region’s capacity to host international events. Additionally, Jammu hosted the T20 Legends League, signaling a return of international cricket to the region after 35 years. These events have not only contributed to J&K’s global visibility but have also highlighted the region’s potential as a host for prestigious events. The successful hosting of these events reflects the progress made in improving security, infrastructure, and overall regional stability. It also underscores the growing recognition of Jammu and Kashmir as an important player on the global stage, capable of contributing to international cultural and sporting events.
One of the most notable changes has been the extension of voting rights to previously marginalized communities. The Valmikis and West Pakistani refugees, who had been residing in Jammu for decades, have gained the right to participate in assembly and local body elections for the first time. The inclusion of these communities in the electoral process represents a substantial step toward equitable representation and integration. It reflects a commitment to addressing historical grievances and ensuring that all residents of Jammu and Kashmir have a voice in the democratic process. Additionally, the Pahari-speaking tribes from Rajouri and Poonch districts have been granted Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. This long-standing demand, dating back to the 1980s, is to have a positive political impact and address historical injustices.
Five years after the abrogation of Article 370, the transformative impact on Jammu and Kashmir is evident across various dimensions. The region has witnessed a restoration of peace, a surge in investment, growth in tourism, significant infrastructure development, and crucial political and social reforms. These changes reflect a commitment to integrating J&K more closely with the rest of India and addressing long-standing issues. The progress made in the past five years demonstrates the positive trajectory set in motion by this historic decision. As Jammu and Kashmir continues to evolve, the benefits of the abrogation of Article 370 are likely to shape a brighter and more prosperous future for the region. The integration of J&K into the broader framework of India, coupled with ongoing development efforts, promises to enhance the quality of life for its residents and contribute to the overall growth and stability of the region.

The author is a Geopolitical Analyst and IT Entrepreneur based out of Jammu