Shafqat Bukhari

The Jammu and Kashmir Government’s decision to amend the Jammu and Kashmir Municipal Act, 2000 comes at a time when urban local governance needs more than legal corrections. The Jammu and Kashmir Municipal (Amendment) Bill, 2026, introduced by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the Legislative Assembly, proposes changes relating to the composition of smaller municipal bodies and provisions concerning ward determination. The Bill has already been published in an extraordinary issue of the Official Gazette.  At first sight, changing the minimum number of elected members in municipalities with a population of up to 5,000 from five to seven may appear to be a technical amendment. In reality, it raises a larger question: what kind of urban local government does Jammu and Kashmir want to build? The existing law contains an apparent inconsistency. One provision refers to a minimum of seven elected members, while the relevant table provides for five members for municipalities with a population of 5,000. The proposed amendment seeks to remove this contradiction by making seven the applicable minimum.  There is a reasonable argument for expanding elected representation. Smaller municipal bodies deal directly with everyday concerns—drainage, sanitation, roads, street lighting, waste management, water supply and local planning. Giving more elected representatives a place in these institutions can widen representation and allow more localities and interests to find a voice. But numbers alone cannot strengthen democracy. The more important test will be whether the amendment produces municipal institutions that are genuinely representative, accountable and capable of taking decisions. Seven elected members are meaningful only when they have clearly defined responsibilities, adequate resources and an effective institutional framework through which citizens can hold them accountable. This is also why the proposed changes concerning ward determination deserve careful legislative scrutiny. The reported amendment seeks to remove a reference to the State Election Commission from Section 10(2), while other provisions of the municipal law already deal with electoral functions and the conduct of municipal elections. The legislation should therefore leave no ambiguity about who determines wards, who supervises elections and where administrative responsibility ends and electoral authority begins. Any lack of clarity in these areas can create unnecessary disputes precisely when local bodies are preparing to function through elected representatives. Jammu and Kashmir also needs to move beyond viewing municipalities simply as administrative extensions of the government.

“New Municipal law tabled by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has not been debated in assembly yet. While the irrefutable fact is that nominated experts can add value, the Government must ensure that true power remains with elected representatives who are accountable before the people. As J&K aligns with its Union Territory framework, true reform won’t be measured by how many seats are added, but by public trust, inclusive consultations, and tangible results: cleaner streets, smoother roads, and accountable civic services.”

Urban local bodies should have space for participation from elected councillors, residents, technical experts, traders, civil society and other relevant stakeholders. Such participation need not dilute the authority of elected representatives. Rather, it can make municipal decision-making more informed and responsive. The emphasis, therefore, should be on elected representation rather than excessive nomination. Where nominated representation is necessary to bring expertise or otherwise unrepresented interests into municipal institutions, its role should be clearly defined and should not overshadow the mandate of elected councillors. The core principle must remain that local government derives its legitimacy from the people. The amendment also comes against the larger backdrop of Jammu and Kashmir’s transition into a Union Territory and the continuing process of aligning older laws and institutions with the present constitutional and administrative framework. That makes clarity in municipal legislation particularly important. The Government has an opportunity to use this amendment not merely to correct a drafting inconsistency but to strengthen the architecture of urban democracy. The Assembly should examine the Bill clause by clause and seek the views of municipal representatives, political parties, urban planners, legal experts, civil society groups and citizens. Such consultation can help ensure that the final legislation addresses practical problems rather than only correcting language in an old law. The ultimate measure of municipal reform will not be whether a municipality has five councillors or seven. It will be whether residents see better roads, cleaner neighbourhoods, improved waste management, accountable planning and quicker civic services. Jammu and Kashmir’s towns and cities are changing rapidly. Its municipal laws must change with them. A stronger local government requires more than additional seats; it requires elected authority, institutional clarity, public participation and accountability. The present amendment can be a step in that direction if the Legislature treats it as an opportunity for meaningful municipal reform rather than merely a numerical correction.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com

Shafqat Bukhari

Twenty-five years in public office is more than a political milestone. It is a measure of endurance, responsibility and the ability to remain connected with the aspirations of a changing society. For Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the journey that began with his taking oath as Gujarat Chief Minister in October 2001 has evolved into one of the longest continuous tenures at the helm of government in India. In June 2026, he also became the country’s longest-serving continuously elected Prime Minister. The significance of this journey lies not merely in its length but in the scale of transformation that has accompanied it. From Gujarat to the national stage, governance under Modi has increasingly been defined by an emphasis on implementation, technology, infrastructure, welfare delivery and the ambition to position India as a confident global power. When Modi assumed office in Gujarat in 2001, the state was recovering from a devastating earthquake and facing challenges related to drought, infrastructure and economic development. Over the following years, Gujarat became associated with an emphasis on industrial growth, infrastructure and governance. Modi later carried this development-oriented approach to the national level after becoming Prime Minister in 2014. Over the past twelve years, the national policy landscape has witnessed initiatives spanning financial inclusion, sanitation, housing, electricity, digital payments, healthcare, infrastructure, manufacturing and entrepreneurship. The expansion of digital public infrastructure has particularly changed the relationship between citizens and government, making many services and transactions faster and more accessible. The welfare dimension has remained an important part of this journey. Government programmes have sought to provide housing, drinking water, electricity, food security, healthcare and direct financial support to millions of households. According to the Union Cabinet’s June 2026 resolution, more than 25 crore people have moved out of poverty during this period, while major welfare initiatives have expanded access to basic services.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s political journey from 2001 to his national leadership today highlights a key chapter in India’s modern governance. Aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, his leadership focuses on empowering youth, women, farmers, entrepreneurs, and technology to drive broad-based growth. As citizen expectations shift from basic access to world-class infrastructure and innovation, PM Modi faces the challenge of sustaining this development momentum to transform national ambitions into everyday prosperity, self-reliance, and global confidence by the centenary of Independence.”

At the same time, the emphasis on economic self-reliance has become increasingly prominent. Make in India, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, semiconductor manufacturing, defence production and support for startups reflect an effort to strengthen domestic capabilities. India’s growing technology ecosystem, expanding infrastructure and increasing focus on artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing are part of a larger vision of building an economy capable of competing globally. The transformation has also been visible in India’s international engagement. The G20 presidency, the International Solar Alliance, Mission LiFE and India’s expanding engagement with the Global South have contributed to a stronger global profile. The government has increasingly projected India not simply as a large market but as a country seeking a greater role in shaping global conversations. Perhaps the most important feature of the 25-year journey is the emphasis on long-term national goals. The vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047 seeks to connect present-day reforms with the centenary of Independence. The focus on youth, women, farmers, entrepreneurs and technology reflects an attempt to make development an increasingly broad-based national project. Twenty-five years also represent a changing India. The aspirations of citizens today are different from those of 2001. Expectations have moved from basic connectivity and access towards quality infrastructure, innovation, global opportunities and higher standards of living. Modi’s political journey has unfolded alongside this transformation. As he enters another phase of public service, the larger challenge is to sustain the momentum of development while translating national ambitions into tangible improvements in the everyday lives of citizens. The journey from Gujarat in 2001 to the national leadership of today remains a significant chapter in contemporary India’s governance story. The next milestone, therefore, is not simply about looking back at twenty-five years. It is about carrying forward the aspiration of building an India that is more prosperous, capable, self-reliant and confident in the world.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com

BRICS enters its third decade at a moment when the international order is undergoing profound change. In his opening remarks at the 18th BRICS Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi placed India’s chairship within a larger vision of inclusive, people-centric and humanity-first global cooperation. His message was not merely about strengthening an international grouping; it was about making global governance more representative, responsive and capable of addressing the challenges of a rapidly changing world. India’s BRICS chairship, guided by the priorities of resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability, has sought to take the grouping beyond summit diplomacy. More than 350 meetings were organised across nearly 30 Indian cities, bringing BRICS engagement closer to people, institutions and communities. This approach underlines an important principle: international cooperation becomes meaningful when its outcomes eventually improve the lives of ordinary citizens. The 20th anniversary of BRICS provides an appropriate moment for such reflection. Twenty years after its formation, the grouping has acquired a distinct identity on the global stage. Its members have demonstrated that differences in national perspectives need not prevent cooperation. Consensus remains central to BRICS, but consensus must now be translated into concrete outcomes. That is perhaps the most important challenge before BRICS as it enters its next twenty years. The grouping has demonstrated that countries with different political systems, economic structures and strategic priorities can work together. Its next task is to demonstrate that this collective voice can produce measurable change in the international system. Prime Minister Modi’s proposal for a BRICS Continuity and Implementation Mechanism is therefore significant. Annual changes in chairship should not result in the loss of institutional momentum. A systematic mechanism through the Troika, supported by a secure digital repository recording decisions, responsible institutions, timelines and implementation status, could make BRICS more accountable and effective. Such an institutional approach can help transform summit declarations into continuing programmes. It can also ensure that initiatives survive changes in leadership and remain part of a long-term BRICS agenda. But strengthening BRICS internally is only one part of the larger challenge. The second is reforming global governance itself. PM Modi’s description of the existing international order as a “pyramid of privilege” captures a longstanding concern of the Global South. Many developing countries are deeply affected by decisions taken by international institutions, yet their influence over those decisions does not always correspond with their economic weight, population or contribution to global growth. The alternative proposed by India is a “platform of partnership”—a system in which every country has a meaningful voice and a stake in decisions affecting humanity. This vision is particularly relevant at a time when global challenges have become increasingly interconnected. Climate change, economic instability, technological disruption, conflicts, pandemics and food and energy insecurity do not respect national borders. Yet the institutions expected to address these challenges often operate through structures created under very different global circumstances. Reform, therefore, cannot remain an abstract diplomatic aspiration. It must improve representation, responsiveness and rule-making. Representation is the first pillar. Modi’s call for time-bound progress on reform of the United Nations Security Council reflects the demand for international institutions to better represent contemporary realities. Similarly, global financial institutions need to ensure that voting power, leadership positions and policy priorities reflect the changing distribution of economic power. The second pillar is responsiveness. International institutions ultimately earn legitimacy by solving problems effectively. The Prime Minister’s proposal for a Seafarers Emergency Support Network illustrates this practical approach. Seafarers sustain a significant part of global trade but can face serious difficulties when emergencies occur far from home. A coordinated network connecting maritime authorities and diplomatic missions could facilitate distress alerts, medical assistance, family communication and evacuation. Such initiatives demonstrate how global governance can become more people-centred. The strength of international institutions is ultimately measured not by the number of declarations they produce, but by their ability to respond when individuals and communities need help. The third pillar—rule-making—may prove the most consequential in the years ahead. Artificial intelligence, cyberspace, biotechnology, outer space and other critical technologies are rapidly transforming economies and societies. The rules governing these domains are still evolving. The Global South cannot afford to remain merely a consumer of rules formulated elsewhere.

“Amplifying the Global South strengthens global institutions by making them more legitimate and resilient. At 20, BRICS must mature from a collective voice into an actionable force capable of addressing global governance challenges. Under India’s chairship, the grouping advocates for a multilateral vision centered on shared global leadership, replacing privilege and empty declarations with genuine partnership and delivery. Moving forward, BRICS’ ultimate success depends on translating cooperation among emerging powers into a fairer, more responsive international order.”

Developing countries need the expertise and institutional capacity to participate actively in shaping the norms that will govern the technologies and economies of the future. PM Modi’s proposal to use BRICS to equip young diplomats and policymakers with negotiation skills, legal expertise and practical training offers one avenue towards that goal. It is an investment not simply in present diplomacy but in the next generation of global decision-makers. The emphasis on South-South Cooperation is equally important. Developing countries possess diverse experiences of development, governance, technology and social innovation. Sharing these experiences can create alternatives and solutions better suited to the realities of the Global South. India’s willingness to take the lead in this area reflects the broader transformation of its own international role. A country that once primarily sought space within existing institutions is increasingly arguing for institutional reform and a greater role in shaping the rules themselves. This is not a call for one group of countries to replace another. The more constructive vision is one of partnership. A stronger voice for the Global South does not have to mean a weaker global system. On the contrary, broader representation can make international institutions more legitimate, resilient and effective. The real test of BRICS at 20 will therefore be whether its unity can translate into impact. Its coming of age should mean greater institutional maturity, stronger implementation and a willingness to engage with difficult questions surrounding global governance. India’s chairship has placed an ambitious proposition before the grouping: if humanity shares the future, humanity must also share the right to shape it. That is a positive and forward-looking vision of multilateralism. It replaces exclusion with participation, privilege with partnership and declarations with delivery. As BRICS begins its next twenty years, its greatest opportunity lies in proving that cooperation among emerging powers can contribute to a fairer and more responsive international order. The journey should now move decisively from voice to impact, and from privilege to partnership.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com

Shafqat Bukhari

The meeting between Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi comes at a significant juncture for the Union Territory, where the demand for restoration of statehood continues to remain one of the most important political issues. The discussions, covering statehood, administrative rules, reservation rationalisation, development and public welfare, underline the range of institutional questions that need sustained attention as Jammu and Kashmir moves through a period of political and administrative transition. Restoration of statehood has repeatedly figured prominently in political discourse in Jammu and Kashmir. The issue is not merely about administrative nomenclature; it is closely linked to the functioning of elected institutions, the relationship between the elected government and the administration, and the aspirations of people who want greater institutional representation in the affairs of the region. At the same time, the question requires a constructive and mature political approach. The Union Government has on several occasions indicated its commitment to restoring statehood at an appropriate stage. The priority, therefore, should be to maintain meaningful dialogue between Srinagar and New Delhi rather than allowing the issue to become another source of political confrontation. The meeting between the Chief Minister and the Home Minister provides an opportunity to keep that dialogue active. Political differences are natural in a democracy, but issues having a direct bearing on governance and the future institutional structure of Jammu and Kashmir require consistency, patience and engagement. The finalisation of the Transaction of Business Rules is another important matter. Clear rules are essential for ensuring that responsibilities among different institutions are properly defined and that government functioning remains efficient and predictable. For citizens, institutional clarity ultimately matters because it affects the delivery of services, decision-making and accountability. Similarly, the issue of rationalisation of reservations requires careful consideration. Reservation policies have important social and constitutional objectives, but they must also be periodically examined to ensure that they remain equitable, transparent and responsive to changing circumstances. Any exercise in this regard should be guided by data, consultation and a commitment to fairness. The Chief Minister’s briefing on the first International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir is another significant aspect of the meeting.

“Restoring statehood is a key aspiration for Jammu and Kashmir, but real progress depends on moving beyond political rhetoric to deliver on basic needs like jobs, infrastructure, and tourism. The true path forward relies on a strong, collaborative partnership between the Centre and the local elected government—one that builds institutional trust, improves governance, and delivers a prosperous, democratic future through steady dialogue and equitable growth.”

The festival, scheduled to begin in Srinagar on September 7, has the potential to place Jammu and Kashmir on a new cultural and creative map. Kashmir has a long association with cinema and has historically served as a backdrop for films. An international festival can help transform that relationship by making the region not merely a location for filming but also a destination for filmmakers, audiences, cultural practitioners and creative industries. Such initiatives can contribute to tourism, employment and the growth of the local creative economy. They can also provide a platform for local filmmakers and artists to connect with national and international counterparts. The Chief Minister’s acknowledgment of the Union Government’s timely assistance following flood-related damage is equally important. Natural disasters do not recognise political boundaries, and effective relief and rehabilitation require close coordination between the Union and the UT administrations. The recent weather-related challenges once again underline the need for stronger disaster preparedness, resilient infrastructure and faster response mechanisms. The larger message from the meeting should therefore be one of cooperation. Jammu and Kashmir faces a wide range of challenges—from institutional questions and employment to infrastructure, tourism, disaster management and economic development. These cannot be addressed through political rhetoric alone. Restoration of statehood remains an important aspiration, but the journey towards it should proceed alongside strengthening governance, improving public services and creating greater economic opportunities. A sustained engagement between the Centre and the elected government can help create the institutional confidence necessary for Jammu and Kashmir’s next political chapter. The objective should ultimately be simple: stronger democratic institutions, efficient governance, equitable development and a future in which the aspirations of the people are addressed through dialogue and democratic processes.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com

The alleged rape and subsequent death of a 15-year-old tribal girl in Kishtwar is not merely another criminal case to be added to a police file. It is a deeply disturbing reminder of how vulnerable children can be failed by the very institutions and adults who are expected to protect them.  The allegations in the case are grave: a school teacher is accused of repeatedly sexually assaulting the minor over several months, resulting in her pregnancy, while investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding an alleged attempt to terminate the pregnancy that preceded her death. The arrest of a nurse at Kishtwar district hospital has taken the number of people detained in connection with the case to six, according to officials. Police have invoked provisions of the POCSO Act, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. The allegations must now be established through a fair and thorough investigation and due process. But irrespective of the eventual judicial outcome, the circumstances described by investigators raise questions that society cannot afford to ignore. How could an alleged crime against a minor continue for months? How did a child allegedly become pregnant without the abuse being detected? And if the investigation establishes that others assisted in concealing the crime or facilitating an unsafe procedure, what allowed such a chain of failures to develop around a vulnerable child? These questions are larger than one criminal investigation. Jammu and Kashmir, including Kashmir Valley, has witnessed disturbing cases of sexual violence and crimes against women and children in the past. Each such incident produces public outrage, demands for justice and assurances of action. Yet the recurrence of such cases should compel society to look beyond the immediate crime and examine the conditions that allow vulnerable victims to remain unheard. One reason such crimes can remain hidden is silence. Children are often dependent on adults for education, mobility, healthcare and financial security. When the alleged perpetrator is someone in a position of authority—such as a teacher—the imbalance becomes even more serious. A child may fear threats, social stigma, punishment, disbelief or the consequences for the family. In remote or socially vulnerable communities, these pressures can become even stronger. This is why laws such as POCSO are so important. But legislation alone cannot protect a child who is too frightened to speak, whose complaint is ignored, or whose circumstances are not noticed by adults around her. The law must be supported by functioning child-protection mechanisms, alert schools, trained teachers, responsive healthcare institutions and communities willing to intervene when warning signs appear. The Kishtwar case also underlines the importance of institutional accountability. A hospital is a place where a vulnerable person should be able to seek medical assistance safely. A school is an institution where children should be protected by teachers and staff. When allegations involve failures across such institutions, the investigation must establish the individual responsibility of every person involved, without shielding anyone because of their position. Accountability cannot mean collective punishment or conclusions before evidence is tested. It means ensuring that every allegation is investigated professionally and that anyone found responsible faces the consequences prescribed by law. There is also a wider question about why crimes against women and children continue despite increased awareness and stronger legal provisions. Part of the answer lies in the gap between formal safeguards and their implementation.

“Pursuing justice for the 15-year-old girl in the Kishtwar tragedy requires not only a thorough investigation and strict accountability for the perpetrators, but also confronting institutional failures to build effective child-protection systems that prevent future abuse.”

Laws can prescribe punishment after a crime. Preventing crime requires something more difficult: vigilance before the crime occurs. Most importantly, children need to know that they will be believed, protected and supported when they speak. The increase in public reporting of crimes should also be interpreted carefully. More reported cases do not automatically mean that every category of crime is objectively increasing. Greater awareness, improved reporting, social media and greater willingness to speak about previously hidden offences can bring more cases into public view. At the same time, recurring serious crimes cannot simply be explained away as better reporting. Every case deserves scrutiny, and authorities must rely on credible crime data to identify actual trends. For Jammu and Kashmir, this distinction is particularly important. The region has experienced periods when security concerns dominated public discourse, but crimes affecting women, children and vulnerable communities require equally serious institutional attention. A safe society is not defined only by the absence of major security incidents. It is also defined by whether a child can go to school without fear, whether a woman can seek medical care safely and whether vulnerable families can trust public institutions. The Kishtwar tragedy, if the allegations are established, should therefore become an opportunity for systemic introspection rather than another brief cycle of outrage. Authorities must ensure a transparent and time-bound investigation. Institutions must examine whether existing safeguards were followed. Schools and hospitals should review child-protection protocols. Communities must be encouraged to report suspected abuse. And victims and their families must receive support without stigma. There is no substitute for justice in a case as grave as this. But justice after a tragedy is only one part of the responsibility. The larger responsibility is to build systems capable of preventing the next tragedy. The alleged Kishtwar crime has already resulted in irreversible loss. A 15-year-old girl is dead, and the circumstances surrounding her death are now the subject of a criminal investigation. The least society can demand from this tragedy is that the investigation reaches the truth, those found responsible are held accountable, and the institutional failures that may have allowed the alleged abuse to continue are confronted. The question before Jammu and Kashmir is not simply how harshly offenders should be punished after a crime. It is how effectively the system can ensure that the next vulnerable child is heard before it is too late.

.”From September 1, electricity consumers across Jammu and Kashmir will have to pay more for power after the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission approved a revised retail tariff for the Jammu Power Development Corporation Limited and Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited for 2026-27. The average increase of 6.83 per cent may be moderate compared with the much steeper hike that could have been imposed, but for households already dealing with rising living costs, another increase in monthly bills cannot be taken lightly. The revised tariff will remain in force from September 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027. For metered domestic consumers, the energy charge has been fixed at ₹2.45 per unit for consumption up to 200 units, ₹4.20 for 201-400 units and ₹4.60 beyond 400 units. A fixed charge of ₹10 per kW per month will also apply. There is some relief in the retention of concessional rates for BPL households and small agricultural consumers. Eligible BPL consumers using up to 30 units a month will pay ₹1.40 per unit, while agricultural connections up to 20 HP will be charged ₹1.05 per unit. Protecting these categories is important because electricity is an essential requirement for poor households and farmers, not a discretionary expense. The bigger concern, however, lies beneath the tariff numbers. JERC has approved a combined Annual Revenue Requirement of ₹10,275.72 crore for JPDCL and KPDCL for 2026-27, while revenue under the revised tariff is projected at ₹7,854.94 crore. This leaves a gap of ₹2,420.78 crore to be met through government subsidy and grants. The Commission has said that recovering the entire revenue gap through tariffs alone would have required an increase of around 40 per cent. The 6.83 per cent hike is therefore considerably lower than what consumers might otherwise have faced. But the size of the gap also exposes the continuing financial challenge before the power distribution sector. If tariffs do not cover the cost of supplying electricity, the difference has to be funded by the Government. In practical terms, consumers may avoid paying the entire cost through their monthly bills, but taxpayers ultimately bear a substantial part of the burden. Government subsidy is justified when it protects vulnerable sections of society. It becomes a concern when it merely compensates for persistent inefficiencies in the power system. Jammu and Kashmir needs to move towards a model in which subsidies are targeted, transparent and financially sustainable rather than becoming a permanent substitute for better revenue collection and distribution efficiency. The revised tariff will also affect commercial consumers. Single-phase non-domestic users will pay ₹3.75 per unit up to 200 units and ₹5.70 thereafter, along with a fixed charge of ₹75 per kW per month. For small shops, workshops, restaurants and other establishments already facing higher operating costs, electricity is another financial pressure. Any increase in business costs can eventually have an impact on prices paid by consumers. This makes power tariff policy an issue beyond electricity bills. It can influence household budgets, the cost of doing business, agricultural production and even employment. The retention of concessional agricultural rates is therefore welcome. Farmers in Jammu and Kashmir already face uncertainties linked to weather, markets and input costs.

“Jammu and Kashmir’s latest 6.83% electricity tariff hike isn’t the main issue—the real threat is letting systemic revenue losses and grid inefficiencies run unchecked. Under the 2026–2029 Multi-Year Tariff frameworks, rate revisions must be tied to grid modernization, loss reduction, and clean energy growth. While subsidies safeguard vulnerable consumers, paying households deserve guaranteed reliability, accountability, and better service.”

Affordable electricity can support irrigation and agricultural equipment and help farmers adopt more productive practices. But concessional power must also be reliable. Cheap electricity has limited value if farmers continue to face interruptions and inadequate supply. The Government and distribution companies now need to make efficiency the central priority. Reducing technical and commercial losses should be at the heart of the reform process. Every unit of electricity that is purchased but not properly billed or collected eventually adds to the financial burden on the system. Better metering, modern distribution infrastructure, stronger action against power theft, improved billing and quicker grievance redressal can strengthen the finances of the utilities without repeatedly shifting the burden to paying consumers. Digital technologies can also help monitor consumption patterns and identify losses more effectively. Consumers are more likely to accept reasonable tariff revisions when they see improvements in the quality and reliability of electricity supply. A higher bill becomes difficult to justify when households continue to face outages, voltage fluctuations and delays in resolving complaints. Tariff reform and service improvement must therefore move together. JERC has also approved the Business Plan and Multi-Year Tariff framework for JPDCL and KPDCL for 2026-27 to 2028-29. This provides an opportunity to address the power sector through a longer-term strategy rather than treating every tariff revision as an isolated exercise. Jammu and Kashmir needs a power policy that brings together procurement costs, distribution losses, infrastructure modernisation, renewable energy, subsidies and consumer protection. The region has significant hydropower potential and is also looking towards renewable energy and electric mobility. The Green Power Tariff has been retained at ₹0.50 per kWh over the applicable tariff, but the transition to cleaner energy must be accompanied by stronger distribution networks and financial discipline. The latest hike is therefore not the biggest problem facing Jammu and Kashmir’s power sector. The bigger concern would be allowing the underlying revenue gap and distribution inefficiencies to continue year after year. A 6.83 per cent increase may be manageable for many consumers, while concessions for poorer households and agriculture offer some protection. But consumers should reasonably expect something in return: better reliability, stronger accountability and a serious effort to reduce system losses.

Shafqat Bukhari

On the 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address offered more than a catalogue of achievements. It presented a larger narrative of an India that is steadily moving from dependence to self-reliance, from limited capacity to global ambition, and from traditional strengths to new frontiers in technology, innovation and entrepreneurship. The figures cited in the address are significant because they point to a transformation taking place across multiple layers of the economy and society. Defence production has nearly quadrupled, electronics manufacturing has increased nearly seven times and mobile phone production has risen 35 times over the last 12 years. These numbers underline a growing manufacturing ecosystem and a stronger emphasis on producing in India for India and the world. The most encouraging aspect of this journey is that manufacturing is no longer being viewed merely through the prism of large industries. The expansion of Khadi and Village Industries, the growth of MSMEs and the opening of new export opportunities indicate that economic participation is reaching wider sections of society. India’s digital transformation is another defining feature of this period. Internet users have increased nearly fourfold, patent grants have quadrupled and digital transactions have grown around 100 times. Digital infrastructure has become an important enabler of economic activity, public services and financial inclusion. India’s experience demonstrates how technology, when combined with scale and accessibility, can transform everyday interactions between citizens, businesses and institutions. Equally important is the emphasis on basic amenities. The expansion of tap-water connections, LPG access, sanitation and pucca housing represents the development dimension of the transformation story. For millions of households, development is experienced not through statistics but through a water connection, a cooking-gas cylinder, a toilet or a secure home. The emerging semiconductor ecosystem adds another strategic dimension. India is seeking to establish domestic capabilities in an industry that lies at the heart of modern technology. The initiation of three semiconductor plants and the beginning of chip exports signal an ambition to become an important part of global technology supply chains. Energy security will be equally crucial. The expansion of solar energy, city gas distribution and piped cooking gas, alongside investments in nuclear technology, reflects an approach that seeks to diversify India’s energy basket. Solar capacity, cited at around 160 GW compared with approximately 2 GW in 2014, represents the scale of the renewable-energy transition. The PM Surya GharMuft Bijli Yojana also illustrates how the energy transition can become a household-level opportunity. With more than 50 lakh households covered, rooftop solar has the potential not only to reduce electricity bills but also to turn consumers into producers of energy. India’s railway transformation offers another visible example. Near-complete electrification, modern coaches and work on a Made-in-India hydrogen train point towards a transport system increasingly shaped by domestic technology and cleaner energy. Perhaps the most important element of the Prime Minister’s address was the emphasis on young Indians. A developed India cannot be built without its youth being participants rather than spectators. Startup India, Skill India, the research fund, opportunities in space, drones, artificial intelligence and sports are creating multiple pathways for young people to innovate and build enterprises. India’s expanding startup ecosystem, with around 2.5 lakh registered startups, reflects this changing mindset. The country is gradually moving from an economy where young people primarily sought employment to one where increasing numbers aspire to create businesses, technologies and solutions. Education remains central to that transformation. The National Education Policy 2020, expansion of universities and medical colleges and the establishment of more than 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs point towards an attempt to nurture scientific curiosity and innovation from an early age. Women-led development is another important pillar.

“India’s Independence Day message serves as a forward-looking call to transform existing capacity and ambition into concrete outcomes on the path toward becoming a developed nation (“Viksit Bharat”). Driven by its primary asset—its people—the next phase of growth requires innovation, institutional strength, skilled human resources, and inclusive development. Building on the foundation of the past 12 years, the next 25 years present an opportunity to build a stronger, more confident, and inclusive India.”

The achievement of the target of three crore LakhpatiDidis is particularly significant. Economic empowerment of women strengthens not only household incomes but also communities and local economies. Women from diverse social backgrounds becoming economically independent represents a powerful measure of inclusive development. The rural economy, too, is being brought into the formal growth story. The SVAMITVA initiative, through property cards for around 3.25 crore families, seeks to turn rural property ownership into an economic asset that can support access to credit, entrepreneurship and self-employment. India’s expanding defence exports further demonstrate the changing scale of its economic ambitions. Equipment produced domestically is now reaching around 100 countries, reflecting the growing capabilities of Indian manufacturers and the gradual emergence of India as an exporter rather than merely an importer of defence equipment. The challenge ahead, however, is to ensure that this momentum becomes broad-based, sustainable and durable. Growth must continue to create quality employment, strengthen rural incomes, support small businesses and ensure that technological progress remains accessible to ordinary citizens. The Independence Day message, therefore, should not be seen merely as a celebration of what has already been achieved. It should be understood as a call to convert capacity into opportunity and ambition into outcomes. India has travelled a considerable distance, but the journey towards a developed nation is much larger. The next phase will require innovation, institutional strength, skilled human resources, responsible technology and continued investment in people. The strongest message emerging from the transformation story is that India’s greatest resource remains its people. Its young population, entrepreneurs, farmers, workers, scientists, women and innovators constitute the foundation on which the next chapter will be written. The task now is to ensure that the India of tomorrow is not only larger and stronger, but also more inclusive, innovative and confident. The transformation of the past 12 years provides a foundation. The opportunity of the next 25 years is to turn that foundation into a truly Viksit Bharat.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com

Seven years after the abrogation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir remains caught in a political argument that appears increasingly incapable of answering the most basic question before its people: what comes next? Political parties are entitled to oppose the constitutional changes of August 2019. They are entitled to demand restoration of statehood, question the Centre’s decisions and mobilise public opinion. Protest is an essential component of democracy. But protest cannot become a substitute for politics, and Article 370 cannot become a permanent licence for political parties to avoid the harder business of governance. This distinction has become particularly important today. The Centre has maintained that its commitment is to restoration of statehood, not restoration of the pre-August 2019 constitutional arrangement. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has also reiterated the position that statehood is the promised objective. Political parties may disagree with this formulation, and they have every democratic right to do so. But the debate cannot remain frozen indefinitely around what happened seven years ago. Jammu and Kashmir’s political class must also answer what it intends to do with the present. The people are not living in August 2019. They are living in 2026. A generation has grown up amid conflict, political uncertainty, security restrictions and repeated disruptions. The younger generation now entering adulthood is not interested only in the politics of constitutional provisions. It wants education that leads somewhere, employment that provides dignity, healthcare that is accessible, infrastructure that works and an economy capable of absorbing its aspirations. This is where the political discourse needs a fundamental correction. There is a tendency in Jammu and Kashmir to treat every political question through the prism of Article 370. Anniversaries become occasions for mobilisation, speeches return to the events of 2019, and political parties compete over who can articulate the strongest opposition to the constitutional changes. But how long can this remain the principal vocabulary of politics? The issue is not whether Article 370 matters. It clearly does, both politically and historically. The issue is whether it should consume virtually the entire political imagination of Jammu and Kashmir. It should not. A mature democracy must be capable of holding two conversations simultaneously: one about political and constitutional rights, and another about the everyday welfare of its citizens. The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve both. The fourth generation growing up in the region cannot be expected to inherit only the grievances of previous generations. They must also inherit opportunities. Their political leaders must speak to them not merely about what was removed but about what can be built. Where is the comprehensive political roadmap for employment? Where is the sustained debate on improving government schools and colleges? Where is the political urgency around strengthening public healthcare? Where is the long-term strategy for agriculture in the face of changing weather patterns, shrinking farm incomes and repeated climate shocks? Where is the serious discussion on industrialisation, entrepreneurship, tourism, technology and private investment? These questions are not less political than Article 370. For an ordinary citizen, they may be far more immediate. Jammu and Kashmir has suffered enormously because politics was for decades dominated by confrontation, instability and violence. Families lost loved ones, businesses collapsed, educational opportunities were disrupted and generations learned to live with uncertainty.

“While debates over statehood and Article 370 endure, Jammu and Kashmir’s true test lies in deliverable governance. The rising generation demands safety, education, and prosperity over political inertia—proving that while history shapes J&K, it cannot be allowed to shackle its future.”

The lesson from that history should not be another generation trapped in political stagnation. The political class must therefore move beyond symbolic politics and demonstrate what democratic representation means in practical terms. A legislator should be judged not only by the strength of his statement on August 5, but also by what he does for a school, a hospital, a road, a farmer, a student or an unemployed young person. Similarly, the Centre cannot expect development alone to settle every political question. Roads, tunnels, electricity projects and investment are important, but political confidence also requires institutional trust. If restoration of statehood is the stated commitment, the people deserve clarity about the roadmap. A promise without a credible pathway inevitably creates uncertainty. The Centre and the political parties of Jammu and Kashmir therefore have responsibilities that run parallel, not contrary, to each other. New Delhi must provide greater political clarity and continue strengthening democratic institutions. Regional parties must demonstrate that their politics is not confined to opposition to the events of 2019. They must present an alternative vision for governance. The real challenge before Jammu and Kashmir is not choosing between politics and development. It is understanding that good governance itself is political. A functioning hospital is political. A job opportunity is political. A transparent recruitment system is political. A farmer receiving timely support is political. A student receiving quality education is political. A village getting reliable roads, drinking water and digital connectivity is political. These are the tangible expressions of democracy. There is also a danger in allowing Article 370 to become an electoral shortcut. It can provide political parties with a ready-made language of grievance without requiring them to explain how they will solve difficult governance problems. It can keep society permanently engaged with the past while allowing the present to escape scrutiny. That is not sustainable. Jammu and Kashmir needs a politics that can remember history without becoming imprisoned by it. The demand for statehood can continue. Constitutional disagreements can continue. Political protests can continue. But alongside them must come a far more consequential political competition: who can deliver better governance and a better future? The fourth generation deserves nothing less. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have already paid an enormous price for political conflict. They should not now be asked to pay the price of political inertia. The ultimate measure of August 2019—or of any political era—will not be the number of speeches delivered, protests organised or slogans raised. It will be whether the people are safer, freer, better educated, healthier and more prosperous. Article 370 may remain a defining chapter of Jammu and Kashmir’s political history but it cannot be allowed to become the whole of its political future.

Editor @thekashmirhorizon.com

The killing of two migrant workers from Chhattisgarh in a terrorist attack in Kulgam is a deeply tragic and condemnable act that deserves the strongest possible condemnation. The victims had travelled hundreds of kilometres from their homes in search of livelihood, hoping to earn an honest living in Kashmir. Instead, they became targets of violence intended not only to claim innocent lives but also to spread fear, undermine public confidence and disrupt the region’s hard-earned progress towards peace and stability. The attack comes barely days after the targeted killing of a policeman in Anantnag, indicating an attempt by terrorist groups to revive fear through isolated but high-impact incidents. Such attacks are carefully designed to create psychological insecurity, discourage economic activity and project a false narrative that normalcy remains elusive. However, these desperate acts should not be allowed to define Jammu and Kashmir’s present or dictate its future. Over the past several years, the Union Territory has witnessed significant improvements in infrastructure, tourism, investment, education and public services. Record tourist arrivals, renewed private investment, expanding road connectivity and growing employment opportunities have reflected increasing public confidence. Thousands of workers, traders and professionals from different parts of the country have continued to contribute to Kashmir’s economy, strengthening social and economic ties with the rest of India. It is precisely this atmosphere of stability and economic revival that terrorist organisations seek to disrupt. By targeting migrant workers, they attempt to create fear among those who come to Kashmir for employment and business. Such attacks are not merely crimes against individuals; they are assaults on Kashmir’s economy, its reputation and the aspirations of its people for peace and development. The response to these attacks, therefore, must be firm, intelligent and measured. Security agencies have already launched extensive search operations to track down those responsible. Their efforts deserve full support, and the perpetrators must be identified and brought to justice swiftly. At the same time, counter-terrorism operations should remain guided by precision, credible intelligence and adherence to the rule of law.

“Terrorism aims to paralyze Kashmir through fear, but the most effective countermeasure is steadfast resilience. It calls for swift justice, uncompromising security, and a unified commitment to peace to ensure the region’s trajectory is defined by growth, opportunity, and unity rather than violence.”

Sustained success against terrorism depends not only on operational effectiveness but also on maintaining public trust and cooperation. The ongoing Amarnath Yatra adds another dimension to the security challenge. With thousands of pilgrims visiting the Valley under the protection of an extensive multi-layered security arrangement, ensuring their safety remains paramount. The deployment of additional paramilitary forces demonstrates the government’s commitment to preventing any disruption of the pilgrimage. Security agencies must continue to maintain high vigilance without allowing isolated incidents to create unnecessary panic among pilgrims or residents. Equally important is the role of society. Kashmir has historically welcomed people from different parts of the country who contribute to its economy as labourers, artisans, traders and professionals. Local communities must continue to uphold this tradition of hospitality and reject attempts by terrorists to divide people on regional or communal lines. Every act of solidarity with migrant workers sends a powerful message that violence cannot weaken the bonds of humanity. The tragedy also serves as a reminder that terrorism remains an evolving threat requiring constant vigilance. Intelligence sharing, community participation, technological surveillance and inter-agency coordination should continue to be strengthened to prevent such attacks before they occur. Long-term peace depends on dismantling not only terrorist networks but also the support structures that enable them to operate. Ultimately, the terrorists’ objective is to instil fear and halt Kashmir’s forward march. The strongest response lies in refusing to let that happen. Justice for the victims must be swift, security must remain uncompromising and the collective resolve for peace must grow stronger. Kashmir’s future should be shaped by development, coexistence and opportunity—not by those who seek to drag it back into the shadows of violence.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com

Shafqat Bukhari

Every year on July 26, India observes Kargil Vijay Diwas to commemorate one of the most defining chapters in the nation’s military history. It is a day to honour the extraordinary courage, sacrifice and unwavering determination of the brave soldiers who defended India’s sovereignty during the 1999 Kargil conflict. More than a remembrance of military victory, the day celebrates the spirit of patriotism, resilience and national unity that continues to inspire generations of Indians.The Kargil War tested the resolve of the nation under some of the most challenging conditions imaginable. Indian soldiers fought at high-altitude peaks, facing extreme weather, rugged terrain and formidable odds. Yet, with exceptional courage and professionalism, they recaptured strategic positions occupied by infiltrators, ensuring the integrity of the nation’s borders. Their victory remains a shining example of discipline, sacrifice and commitment to duty.Kargil Vijay Diwas also reminds us that peace is preserved through vigilance and preparedness. The success of Operation Vijay was made possible by the courage of soldiers, the strategic planning of military leadership and the unwavering support of citizens across the country. The collective national resolve demonstrated during the conflict reflected the strength of India’s democratic institutions and its commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty.The legacy of Kargil extends beyond the battlefield. It has shaped India’s defence preparedness, modernisation of the armed forces and strategic thinking. Over the years, the country has invested significantly in strengthening border infrastructure, surveillance systems, logistics and operational capabilities. Better roads, tunnels, advanced communication systems and modern equipment have enhanced the ability of security forces to operate effectively in challenging terrain, particularly in the Himalayan region.For Jammu and Kashmir, Kargil Vijay Diwas holds special significance. The mountains that once echoed with the sounds of conflict today stand as symbols of courage and resilience. The people of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir witnessed firsthand the sacrifices made by the armed forces to protect every inch of the nation’s territory. Today, the region is steadily moving forward through improved connectivity, tourism, infrastructure development and greater opportunities for local communities, reflecting the broader vision of peace and progress.The younger generation has a special responsibility to preserve the values for which the heroes of Kargil fought.

“Kargil War tested the resolve of the nation under some of the most challenging conditions imaginable. Indian soldiers fought at high-altitude peaks, facing extreme weather, rugged terrain and formidable odds. Yet, with exceptional courage and professionalisms,.”

Patriotism today is expressed not only by defending the nation’s borders but also by contributing to nation-building through education, innovation, public service, entrepreneurship and responsible citizenship. Every student who studies with dedication, every entrepreneur who creates employment and every citizen who strengthens social harmony contributes to the progress and security of the nation.  Kargil Vijay Diwas is equally a day to honour the families of the martyrs, whose courage and sacrifice remain an enduring source of inspiration. Behind every soldier who laid down his life stood parents, spouses and children who bore an immeasurable loss with dignity and pride. Their resilience reminds us that the cost of freedom extends far beyond the battlefield, and the nation owes them enduring gratitude and support. As India continues its journey towards becoming a developed nation, the spirit of Kargil offers valuable lessons. It teaches us that determination can overcome adversity, unity can defeat every challenge and courage can inspire lasting change. The sacrifices of the brave soldiers call upon every citizen to uphold the values of integrity, discipline and service in daily life. On this Kargil Vijay Diwas, let us remember not only the victory that brought honour to the nation but also the ideals that made it possible. By paying tribute to the heroes of Kargil and embracing their spirit of selfless service, India can continue to move forward with confidence, unity and purpose. Their legacy lives on in every citizen committed to building a stronger, safer and more prosperous nation.

editor@thekashmirhorizon.com