Separatist movements have been one of the major factors contributing to militancy and instability in Jammu & Kashmir. Bring out actions taken by the Government to bring J&K into the national mainstream. Discuss pre and post abrogation status of Articles 370 and 35A along with positive impacts of the changes. (250 words)

Jammu and Kashmir’s security challenge combines violence, external support, political alienation, governance deficits and contested identity. Mainstreaming requires security and democratic legitimacy together.

Measures include counter-terror operations, cross-border diplomacy, de-radicalisation and rehabilitation, elections and local institutions, infrastructure and tourism investment, welfare delivery, connectivity, women/youth programmes and action against terror finance. Dialogue and protection of civil liberties remain essential for durable peace.

Article 370 created a special constitutional relationship and limited Parliament’s legislative reach; the 1954 Order extended provisions gradually. Article 35A enabled the former state legislature to define permanent residents and associated land, employment and welfare rights. In August 2019, the constitutional arrangement was altered, Article 35A ceased to operate, and the state was reorganised into the Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh. The Supreme Court upheld the core decision in 2023 while directing restoration of statehood and elections.

Supporters cite uniform constitutional rights, easier investment, welfare access, reservations, anti-corruption reach and improved integration. Concerns include representation, land/jobs, civil liberties, internet restrictions and local trust. Security indicators alone cannot measure mainstreaming.

A credible settlement needs elected government, statehood, accountable security, inclusive development, rights protection and meaningful dialogue.

internal security; national security; governance; India