August 5, 2020 marked the first anniversary of the dawn of politics of development which celebrated the decision by the government of India to reorganize the state of Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories: Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), and Ladakh. With vision for development, enhanced governance, and socioeconomic justice for disadvantaged sections of the population the region is marching on the path of progress.
Expanding the rights of people
Many rights which we take for granted in a modern democracy, the people of Jammu and Kashmir saw them for the first time as the several union laws including the Right to Free and Compulsory Education Act 2009, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2015, the Protection of Human Rights Act 1994 and the Right to Information Act 2005 were extended to region
Refugees from West Pakistan, Gurkhas, Safai Karamcharis were denied domicile certificate despite residing in the region for several decades. They were denied voting rights, access to higher education and jobs. Similarly, women married to non-Kashmiris didn’t have property rights. They can have better future in the new set up.
Strengthening grassroots democracy
Elections to Block Development Councils (BDCs), which are a vital component of local government under the three-tier governance model in India, were held for the first time last October. It had the voter turnout of 98 percent. It was also an important achievement in the goal of mainstreaming of women in politics as the seats were reserved for them.
The panchayats, which represent the lowest level of participatory democracy in India, have been strengthened through the devolution of functions and funds of more than $200 million last year. The result was remarkable with the union territory of J&K receiving three national awards for socioeconomic development.
Economic Self-reliance
Prime Ministers Employment Generation Program, a credit-linked subsidy program aimed at generating self-employment opportunities through establishment of micro-enterprises in the non-farm sector by helping traditional artisans and unemployed youth, has opened new vistas of opportunity for people.
