Overview
This lecture covers the transformation of Jammu and Kashmir from 1947 to the present, highlighting political, economic, and social changes during the post-independence modernization process.
Introduction & Historical Context
- Jammu and Kashmir experienced major economic and social changes after 1947.
- At independence, princely states could join India, Pakistan, or remain independent; Maharaja Hari Singh chose independence.
- Invasion by tribal forces led Maharaja Hari Singh to seek Indian military help, resulting in accession to India via the Instrument of Accession (IOA).
Phase 1: 1947–1965 – Political & Economic Reforms
- Maharaja Hari Singh transferred power to his son Karan Singh; Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah became head of emergency administration on 30 October 1947.
- Sheikh Abdullah later became Prime Minister of J&K; Karan Singh became first Sadar-e-Riyasat (constitutional head).
- The New Kashmir Manifesto aimed for comprehensive economic, social, political, and cultural reconstruction.
- Major land reforms abolished jagirdari (land grants for service), introduced tenancy rights, and implemented the "Land to the Tillers" Act.
- Irrigation was improved by constructing canals, boosting agricultural productivity.
- 35% of annual budget was spent on education; modern education and agricultural education made compulsory.
- Industrial development promoted silk, wool, and handicrafts sectors.
- Political shift in 1953: Sheikh Abdullah arrested, Ghulam Mohammad Bakshi became Prime Minister, focusing on infrastructure and tourism development.
Phase 2: 1965–1982 – Constitutional & Socio-Economic Changes
- Kamaraj Plan brought leadership changes: Bakshi resigns, GM Sadiq became Prime Minister, later Chief Minister following 1965 constitutional amendments.
- Titles "Prime Minister" and "Sadar-e-Riyasat" replaced with "Chief Minister" and "Governor"; Dr. Karan Singh became first Governor.
- Articles 356 and 357 of Indian Constitution applied, facilitating greater integration.
- Public participation increased, special police organization disbanded, and freedom of press enhanced.
- Agricultural reforms included high-yielding variety seeds, fertilizers, and modern irrigation.
- Nationalization of major industries, support for handicrafts, and establishment of employment boards.
- Educational reforms adopted national curriculum, emphasized secularism, and introduced reservations for SCs, backward classes, and Ladakh communities.
- Anti-corruption and vigilance commissions established.
Phase 3: 1982–Present – Political Evolution & Reorganization
- Leadership saw frequent changes; periods of President's Rule due to instability and rise of militancy.
- 2005: Administrative reforms created new districts and decentralized powers.
- August 5, 2019: Abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A; J&K reorganized into two Union Territories (J&K and Ladakh).
- Indian Constitution fully applicable; state special status ended.
- Reservation extended for EWS, SC/STs, and deprived groups; women received property rights.
- Central laws like Right to Information, Right to Education, and protection from sexual offenses implemented.
- Empowered local self-government through Panchayati Raj, BDC, and DDC elections.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Instrument of Accession (IOA) — Legal document integrating princely states with India.
- Jagirdari — System of land grants for services, abolished post-independence.
- Sadar-e-Riyasat — Constitutional head of J&K (replaced by Governor).
- Land to the Tillers Act — Law transferring ownership of land from landlords to those who worked it.
- Kamaraj Plan — Congress initiative for leadership change.
- Articles 356/357 — Constitutional provisions enabling central rule and integration.
- President’s Rule — Central government directly governs a state during crises.
- Article 370/35A — Articles granting special status to J&K, abrogated in 2019.
- EWS — Economically Weaker Section.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review reserved sections for SCs, STs, EWS, and backward classes in J&K.
- Prepare points on effects of Article 370 abrogation for discussion or essay.
- Study phases and associated reforms for exam readiness.