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

- Separatist movements have been one of the major factors contributing to militancy and instability in Jammu & Kashmir (J & K). Bring out actions taken by the Government to bring J & K into national mainstream. Discuss pre and post abrogation status of Articles 370 and 35A. Also bring out positive impacts of abrogation of both articles in mainstreaming the state. (Answer in 250 words)
Introduction
Separatism, cross-border terrorism and political alienation have historically contributed to instability in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K). Successive governments have therefore combined security measures with development, democratic participation and constitutional integration.
Body
Measures for Mainstreaming J&K:
1. Security and counter-terrorism: Stronger border management, action against terror financing and rehabilitation of surrendered militants.
2. Development: Prime Minister’s Development Package, improved roads, railways, power, health and educational infrastructure.
3. Grassroots Democracy: Elections to Panchayats, Block Development Councils and District Development Councils established a three-tier local-government structure.
4. Economic Integration: Tourism, investment, skill development and employment programmes have sought to provide alternatives to militancy.
Pre and Post-2019 Constitutional Position:
- Article 370 provided J&K special constitutional arrangements, including its own Constitution and restrictions on automatic application of Union laws.
- Article 35A empowered the State legislature to define “permanent residents” and confer special rights concerning property, employment and other benefits.
- On 5 August 2019, Article 370 was rendered inoperative and Article 35A ceased to operate; the erstwhile State was reorganised into UT of J&K with legislature and UT of Ladakh.
- The Supreme Court upheld the constitutional changes in 2023.
Positive Impacts:
Full application of the Constitution extended central welfare and reservation laws, strengthened rights of disadvantaged groups and facilitated administrative integration. Official data also indicate declines in organised stone-pelting and hartals alongside increased tourism and electoral participation.
Conclusion
Thus, constitutional integration has strengthened administrative and socio-economic mainstreaming; however, lasting peace requires democratic trust, employment, statehood restoration, reconciliation and sustained counter-terrorism efforts.