For months, the condition of roads across Jammu and Kashmir has been a daily reminder of the gap between development promises and the realities faced by ordinary citizens. From Srinagar’s busy city roads to remote rural stretches, commuters have endured potholes, dust, traffic bottlenecks and damaged vehicles. The long-awaited breakthrough in the macadamisation deadlock, following assurances from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the subsequent decision of contractors to participate in the tendering process, therefore comes as welcome news. More importantly, it offers an opportunity for the government to restore public confidence by ensuring that road works begin without further delay. The impasse over road macadamisation had effectively stalled one of the government’s most important public infrastructure initiatives. Although the administration had approved an ambitious road restoration plan worth around ₹223 crore in May, with nearly ₹156 crore earmarked specifically for macadamisation, the programme remained on paper as contractors stayed away from the bidding process. Their concerns over outdated rates amid rising costs of construction materials and fuel were significant enough to halt progress, demonstrating that even well-intentioned development plans can falter if implementation challenges are not addressed. The recent intervention by the Chief Minister appears to have changed the course of events. By engaging directly with representatives of the J&K Hot Mix Plant Association and acknowledging the legitimacy of their concerns, the government has shown that dialogue remains the most effective tool for resolving administrative and commercial disputes. The decision of contractors to return to the tendering process reflects the value of constructive engagement over prolonged confrontation. It is also a reminder that governance often succeeds when it is responsive, consultative and willing to accommodate practical realities. Yet, the resolution of the tender dispute should not be mistaken for the completion of the task. The real challenge begins now. Tender participation is only the first step; the public will judge success by the speed, quality and transparency with which the roads are restored. Every week of delay prolongs inconvenience for lakhs of commuters, transport operators, students, patients and businesses that depend on reliable road connectivity. The deteriorating condition of roads has had consequences far beyond discomfort. Potholes and uneven surfaces increase the risk of accidents, slow emergency services, damage vehicles and inflate maintenance costs for ordinary families. Dust generated from unmacadamised roads has become a serious public health concern, particularly in densely populated localities where road excavation for drainage, water supply and other utility works has remained incomplete for months. Residents have repeatedly complained that roads are dug up but rarely restored within a reasonable timeframe, leaving neighbourhoods exposed to prolonged inconvenience.

“The end of the macadamisation deadlock is a welcome start, but Jammu and Kashmir needs real asphalt under its wheels, not paper assurances. The coming weeks are a critical test for the government to translate tenders into durable infrastructure and rebuild long-overdue public trust.”

Road infrastructure is more than a matter of transport; it is a critical component of economic growth and social well-being. Efficient roads support tourism, facilitate trade, improve agricultural marketing, reduce travel time and strengthen access to healthcare and education. For Jammu and Kashmir, where connectivity has always played a strategic role in development, quality road infrastructure is indispensable. Delays in road restoration inevitably affect economic activity, particularly during the peak tourism and agricultural seasons when mobility is essential. The Government must therefore ensure that this renewed momentum translates into visible results on the ground. Departments responsible for execution should closely monitor project timelines, enforce quality standards and hold contractors accountable for timely completion. At the same time, utility agencies must improve coordination so that freshly macadamised roads are not repeatedly dug up for subsequent pipeline, drainage or cable works—a recurring problem that has frustrated citizens for years and led to unnecessary expenditure of public funds. Public communication will also be crucial. Citizens deserve regular updates on project schedules, road closures and expected completion dates. Transparency not only builds trust but also allows people to plan around temporary disruptions that accompany infrastructure works. The end of the macadamisation deadlock is undoubtedly a positive development. However, what matters now is not the assurance given in meetings or the tenders submitted on paper, but the smooth, durable roads that people expect to see under their wheels. Jammu and Kashmir has waited long enough. The coming weeks should mark the beginning of a determined effort to restore not only roads but also public confidence in the government’s ability to deliver essential infrastructure efficiently and responsibly.

Jammu and Kashmir’s architectural heritage is more than a collection of old buildings. These structures are repositories of history, identity and collective memory, reflecting centuries of craftsmanship, governance and cultural evolution. Yet, an emerging trend of shifting government offices from historic buildings to newly constructed administrative complexes is creating a silent crisis. While modern office infrastructure is necessary, abandoning heritage buildings in the process is a costly mistake. A heritage building that falls out of daily public use is a heritage building that begins to die. Experience across the world has demonstrated a simple truth: heritage survives not merely because it is declared protected, but because it remains alive and functional. Buildings occupied every day receive routine maintenance, security and public attention. Once abandoned, they rapidly deteriorate. Leaking roofs, broken windows, damp walls, termite infestation and encroachments soon replace the bustling activity that once kept these structures alive. Restoration after years of neglect often costs several times more than regular upkeep. Unfortunately, this pattern is becoming increasingly visible in Jammu and Kashmir. Several historic government buildings that once housed important public institutions have gradually emptied as departments moved into modern office complexes. While the new facilities may offer improved amenities, the old structures are frequently left unattended, becoming vulnerable to decay, vandalism and even demolition under the pretext of being beyond repair. The assumption that declaring a building as a heritage structure automatically guarantees its preservation is fundamentally flawed. Laws, notifications and signboards alone cannot save a neglected building. Heritage conservation requires continuous occupation, maintenance and relevance. A building that no longer serves a public purpose soon loses both institutional attention and budgetary support. Government policy must therefore adopt a more balanced approach. The objective should not be to vacate heritage buildings whenever new complexes are built. Instead, departments that continue to function effectively from these historic premises should remain there wherever feasible. Modernisation can take place within heritage structures through sensitive renovations that preserve architectural character while upgrading electrical systems, internet connectivity, accessibility and safety features. Many historic buildings around the world successfully function as government offices, courts, universities and museums without compromising their heritage value. Equally important is the future of buildings that have already been abandoned. Leaving them locked indefinitely is perhaps the worst option. These structures should undergo scientific restoration and adaptive reuse.

“Historic buildings can’t be saved tomorrow if we abandon them today. Instead of emptying J&K’s architectural treasures in favor of building new office complexes, we must restore, modernize, and repurpose them into active centers of public life. Keeping history useful is the only way to keep it alive.”

Abandoned heritage building can house public libraries, archives, district facilitation centres, cultural resource centres, tourism information offices, municipal service centres, skill development institutes or government training academies. Such uses would ensure regular footfall, justify maintenance budgets and reconnect citizens with their architectural legacy.  Adaptive reuse has emerged globally as one of the most successful conservation strategies. It preserves the historical fabric while allowing buildings to meet contemporary needs. Rather than constructing entirely new facilities at enormous public expense, governments can often restore and repurpose existing heritage structures, making conservation economically sensible as well as culturally responsible. There is also an environmental argument in favour of retaining and reusing heritage buildings. Demolishing old structures and constructing new ones generates substantial carbon emissions and construction waste. Conserving existing buildings aligns with sustainable development by reducing the environmental footprint of public infrastructure. In an era increasingly defined by climate change, conservation is not merely about history; it is also about responsible resource management. The administration should therefore formulate a clear policy that discourages the wholesale shifting of public offices from functional heritage buildings solely because new complexes become available. Every proposal to relocate an office should undergo a heritage impact assessment examining the long-term consequences for the historic structure. Where relocation is unavoidable, an alternative public use must be identified before the building is vacated, ensuring there is no period of abandonment. Heritage conservation should never be viewed as an obstacle to development. On the contrary, preserving historic public buildings while upgrading administrative infrastructure reflects mature governance that respects both the past and the future. The choice is not between old and new. It is between neglect and stewardship. The lesson is unmistakable. Heritage buildings abandoned today cannot be preserved tomorrow. Once decay sets in, restoration becomes increasingly difficult, expensive and, in many cases, impossible. The most effective way to protect these landmarks is to keep them alive through continuous public use. Jammu and Kashmir must therefore abandon the practice of emptying heritage buildings in favour of new office complexes. Instead, it should restore, modernise and reuse these architectural treasures as vibrant centres of governance and public welfare. That is the surest path to ensuring that history remains a living presence rather than a forgotten ruin.

”The National Medical Commission’s approval of 50 additional MBBS seats each at Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu and Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar marks a significant step forward for healthcare and higher education in Jammu and Kashmir. From the 2026-27 academic session, the annual intake at both premier institutions will rise from 200 to 250 students. Though the increase may appear modest on paper, its long-term implications for the region’s healthcare system are substantial. For years, Jammu and Kashmir has faced a shortage of doctors, particularly in rural and remote areas where access to specialised healthcare remains limited. Increasing the number of medical graduates is one of the most effective ways to strengthen the healthcare workforce. An additional 100 MBBS seats across the two colleges every year means hundreds of more trained doctors entering the system over the next decade. In a region with challenging geography and dispersed populations, this expansion is not merely an academic exercise; it is a strategic investment in public health. The decision also offers relief to aspiring medical students. Competition for MBBS seats has become intensely high, with thousands of candidates vying for a limited number of government seats through the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). The additional seats will slightly improve the chances of deserving students securing admission within the Union Territory rather than seeking opportunities outside. For many middle-class families, obtaining a government medical seat is the only financially viable path to a medical career. Equally important is what this approval signifies about the state of medical education infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. The NMC’s Letter of Permission is granted only after assessing faculty strength, teaching facilities, hospital capacity, laboratories, hostels and other academic requirements. The expansion therefore reflects an improvement in institutional preparedness and administrative capacity. It indicates that both GMC Jammu and GMC Srinagar have developed the infrastructure necessary to support a larger student intake. However, increasing seats should not become an end in itself. Across the country, several medical colleges have expanded admissions without proportionate enhancement in clinical exposure, faculty recruitment and research facilities. The quality of medical education must remain the foremost priority. Additional students require more classrooms, laboratories, hostel accommodation, patient load and trained faculty members. If these components are not strengthened simultaneously, the educational experience can suffer.

“The expansion of MBBS seats at GMC Jammu and GMC Srinagar is a forward-looking move that addresses the region’s doctor shortage and expands local educational opportunities. However, its ultimate success depends on whether the increase in seats is matched by sustained investments in infrastructure, faculty, and public health to ensure high-quality medical training and better healthcare delivery across Jammu and Kashmir.”

The Government must therefore treat this approval as the beginning of a broader reform process. Investments should continue in teaching hospitals, simulation labs, digital learning systems and postgraduate training programmes. Greater emphasis must also be placed on research and community health outreach so that medical graduates are equipped not only to treat patients but also to address emerging public health challenges. Another critical issue is retention. Producing more doctors will have limited impact if a significant proportion leaves the region for better opportunities elsewhere. Creating attractive working conditions in government hospitals, ensuring transparent recruitment and providing opportunities for specialisation will be essential to retain talent within Jammu and Kashmir. The expansion of MBBS seats at GMC Jammu and GMC Srinagar is ultimately a welcome and forward-looking decision. It addresses a pressing need for more medical professionals, broadens educational opportunities for local students and strengthens the foundation of the region’s healthcare system. Yet the true measure of success will not be the number of seats added, but the quality of doctors produced and the improvement in healthcare delivery that follows. If accompanied by sustained investment in infrastructure, faculty and public health services, this move can become a turning point in Jammu and Kashmir’s journey toward a stronger and more accessible healthcare system.

The Valley’s fragile environment deserves sustainable advertising, not another source of pollution. Srinagar has long been celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, tree-lined boulevards, sparkling lakes and rich cultural heritage. Yet, beneath this beauty, the city is quietly grappling with a growing environmental nuisance that often escapes public attention—the unchecked proliferation of plastic flex banners, vinyl billboards and PVC-based advertising hoardings. These colourful displays may serve commercial and political interests for a few weeks, but they leave behind an environmental footprint that lasts for decades. From Residency Road to Boulevard, Hyderpora to Bemina, and from government offices to commercial markets, plastic billboards dominate the city’s skyline. Political campaigns, coaching centres, retail outlets, real estate firms, private institutions and event organisers increasingly rely on plastic flex material because it is cheap, durable and weather-resistant. Unfortunately, these very qualities make it one of the most environmentally harmful forms of advertising. Unlike paper or cloth, flex banners are manufactured using polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a plastic material that is difficult to recycle and takes hundreds of years to decompose. Once damaged by wind, rain or snowfall, these banners are often discarded in open spaces, dumped into municipal waste or burned in the open. Both practices carry severe environmental consequences. Open burning releases toxic chemicals, including dioxins and furans, while discarded plastic eventually finds its way into drains, wetlands and water bodies, contributing to pollution and flooding. For Srinagar, this problem is particularly alarming. The city is home to ecologically sensitive wetlands, streams and lakes, including the iconic Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake. Plastic waste from torn banners and damaged hoardings often clogs drainage channels and reaches these fragile ecosystems, threatening aquatic life and adding to the already daunting challenge of solid waste management. Every monsoon, blocked drains worsen urban flooding, and non-biodegradable plastic waste remains a major contributor. The visual impact is equally concerning. Plastic hoardings hanging from electric poles, bridges, road dividers and public buildings diminish the city’s aesthetic appeal. Srinagar aspires to become a world-class tourist destination, yet visitors are increasingly greeted by faded, torn and weather-beaten banners that project neglect rather than natural beauty. A city known as the “Paradise on Earth” deserves streetscapes that reflect its environmental and cultural identity. What makes the situation more disappointing is that sustainable alternatives already exist. Across several Indian cities, municipal authorities have begun promoting biodegradable materials such as cloth, canvas and recyclable paper for temporary advertisements. Digital display boards are also replacing conventional hoardings in many urban centres, reducing physical waste while allowing more efficient use of advertising space. Srinagar can learn from these examples without compromising commercial interests. The responsibility rests not only with advertisers but also with civic authorities.

“Srinagar stands at a crossroads: to protect Kashmir’s iconic landscape and lead as a model green city, it must banish plastic flex billboards and embrace sustainable advertising. Environmental resilience demands more than banning single-use bags—it requires replacing commercial plastic waste with eco-friendly alternatives.”

The Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Srinagar Smart City Limited, the Urban Local Bodies Department and other regulatory agencies must formulate and strictly enforce comprehensive guidelines governing outdoor advertisements. Permissions should be linked to environmentally friendly materials, while plastic flex banners should be phased out through a clearly defined timeline. Equally important is accountability. Every organisation installing banners should be responsible for removing them within a specified period after the event or campaign concludes. Security deposits linked to waste collection could ensure compliance, while substantial penalties should be imposed on those abandoning plastic waste in public spaces. Such measures would significantly reduce littering and improve urban cleanliness. Businesses, educational institutions and political parties must also recognise that environmental responsibility enhances, rather than diminishes, their public image. Choosing eco-friendly advertising materials sends a powerful message that development and sustainability can go hand in hand. Consumers today increasingly appreciate organisations that demonstrate environmental consciousness. Public participation will be crucial. Citizens should discourage unnecessary banner culture and support campaigns promoting cleaner alternatives. Schools, colleges and civil society organisations can play a vital role in raising awareness about the environmental hazards posed by PVC flex materials. As Jammu and Kashmir places increasing emphasis on sustainable tourism, climate resilience and urban development, allowing plastic billboards to continue proliferating sends the wrong signal. Environmental protection cannot remain confined to banning single-use plastic carry bags while ignoring another major source of plastic pollution visible across every major road and marketplace. Srinagar stands at an important crossroads. It can either continue to tolerate a mounting plastic waste problem or emerge as a model green city that balances commercial activity with ecological responsibility. Phasing out plastic billboards and replacing them with sustainable alternatives is a practical, achievable and necessary step. Protecting Kashmir’s natural beauty demands more than admiration—it requires decisive action. The time has come to end the era of plastic flex advertising and allow Srinagar’s landscape, rather than plastic waste, to define its identity.

For a city blessed with rivers, lakes and abundant natural resources, Srinagar’s recurring water shortage is nothing short of a governance paradox. Every summer, thousands of residents wake up to dry taps, uncertain water supply schedules and long queues around water tankers. As temperatures soar, the demand for drinking water rises sharply, but the response from the authorities remains painfully inadequate. Equally frustrating is the worsening electricity situation. Despite repeated assurances of uninterrupted power supply and promises of infrastructure upgrades, prolonged power cuts continue to disrupt daily life across the city. The twin crises of water scarcity and erratic electricity have become a harsh reality for residents, exposing glaring gaps in planning, infrastructure and public service delivery. The impact is visible across almost every locality in Srinagar. Households struggle to store enough water for drinking and domestic use. Working professionals begin their day without knowing when the next water supply will arrive. Students preparing for examinations, patients requiring electrically powered medical equipment, shopkeepers, small businesses and entrepreneurs all suffer because of frequent power outages. These are not isolated incidents caused by an unexpected natural disaster. They are recurring problems that surface almost every year, suggesting a deeper structural failure rather than temporary inconvenience. One of the biggest concerns is the absence of long-term planning. Srinagar’s population has grown rapidly over the past two decades, with new residential colonies emerging across the city. However, the expansion of water supply networks and electricity infrastructure has failed to keep pace with urban growth. Old pipelines continue to leak, resulting in significant water losses before supply reaches consumers. Similarly, ageing transformers and overloaded distribution systems remain vulnerable during periods of peak demand. The Government often attributes water shortages to reduced discharge in rivers, maintenance works or rising consumption. Likewise, electricity disruptions are frequently blamed on increased demand, infrastructure faults or weather-related issues. While these explanations may hold some truth, they fail to answer a fundamental question: why do the same problems recur every year without lasting solutions? Citizens deserve more than routine explanations. They deserve accountability, transparency and timely action. Public confidence also suffers because communication from departments remains inadequate. Residents are often left guessing when water supply will be restored or how long power outages will continue. In the absence of clear information, rumours spread quickly, increasing public frustration and eroding trust in institutions. The Government has announced several projects over the years to improve drinking water supply and modernise the power distribution network. Yet the benefits of these investments are not consistently visible on the ground. If public money has been spent on infrastructure upgrades, the authorities must explain why so many neighbourhoods continue to experience daily disruptions. The economic consequences are equally serious.

“Reliable water and electricity aren’t privileges—they are fundamental rights. After years of patience, residents shouldn’t have to endure the same old summer hardships. It is time for the government to step up with accountable, visible solutions: transparent supply schedules, real-time updates during outages, fixed deadlines for pending infrastructure, and a grievance system that actually works. No more excuses; it’s time to deliver.”

Hotels, restaurants, hospitals, educational institutions and small businesses incur additional expenses by purchasing water through private tankers and relying on diesel generators or backup power systems. For many small enterprises already facing financial pressures, these recurring costs reduce profitability and discourage growth. Climate change is adding another layer of complexity. Rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns and increasing pressure on water resources demand smarter urban planning. Conservation, rainwater harvesting, protection of water bodies and efficient distribution systems should become central components of future policy rather than afterthoughts. At the same time, electricity infrastructure requires substantial investment in modern transmission lines, smart metering, preventive maintenance and timely replacement of ageing equipment. Emergency response teams should be strengthened so that faults are addressed promptly instead of allowing outages to continue for hours. Criticism alone, however, is not enough. The government must treat these crises as matters of priority rather than seasonal administrative challenges. Departments responsible for water supply and electricity should publish transparent supply schedules, provide real-time updates during disruptions, complete pending infrastructure projects within fixed timelines and establish effective grievance redressal mechanisms. Srinagar deserves reliable basic services. Access to clean drinking water and uninterrupted electricity is not a privilege; it is a fundamental public service and an essential responsibility of any responsive government. Residents cannot be expected to endure the same hardships every summer while assurances remain unchanged and problems persist. The people of Srinagar have shown patience for years. That patience should no longer be mistaken for acceptance. What the city needs now is not another promise but visible action, accountable governance and a long-term strategy that finally delivers reliable water and electricity to every household.

The values taught in educational environments heavily influence young minds and future generations. Jammu and Kashmir Government’s comprehensive audit to identify and remove anti-national and separatist literature from institutions is a timely, significant initiative.

Educational institutions are not merely centres of learning; they are the foundations upon which a nation’s future is built. The values imparted in classrooms, libraries and campuses shape the outlook of young minds and influence generations to come. In this context, the Jammu and Kashmir Government’s decision to undertake a comprehensive audit of educational institutions to identify and remove literature containing anti-national and separatist content is a timely and significant initiative. At a high-level review meeting chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the administration directed all concerned departments to ensure that no educational institution, whether a school, college, university or public library, stocks or circulates material that promotes separatism or anti-national narratives. The move also includes scrutiny of digital repositories, websites and online academic resources, along with the formulation of a Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) for the procurement of books and educational material. The initiative deserves appreciation because it seeks to reinforce the primary purpose of educational institutions—to impart knowledge, uphold constitutional values and prepare responsible citizens. Campuses must remain places where students are encouraged to think critically, innovate, and contribute positively to society. They cannot be allowed to become platforms for the spread of narratives that undermine the country’s unity, integrity or democratic institutions. Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed decades of turmoil, conflict and the devastating impact of radicalisation. Thousands of families have borne the consequences of violence, while educational institutions themselves have often suffered disruptions. In recent years, the region has witnessed a renewed focus on development, education, infrastructure and youth empowerment. Protecting educational spaces from divisive influences is therefore not merely an administrative exercise but an investment in long-term peace and stability. The Lieutenant Governor’s emphasis on accountability is particularly noteworthy. Holding institutions responsible for the material available in their libraries and ensuring that procurement follows a transparent and structured process will strengthen governance within the education sector. The proposed SoP for purchasing books and academic resources is a welcome reform that can eliminate ambiguity and establish uniform standards across educational institutions. Equally important is the proposal to involve eminent educationists, intellectuals and senior officers in periodically reviewing academic material. Such a multidisciplinary approach can ensure that decisions are well-informed, objective and consistent with both academic standards and constitutional principles. Periodic audits and inspections can further help institutions maintain updated and relevant collections while preventing the inadvertent inclusion of objectionable material.

“The Government is enforcing a zero-tolerance policy against the radicalization or misleading of students in Jammu and Kashmir. By strengthening oversight, improving procurement transparency, and reinforcing constitutional values, this initiative aims to protect the educational ecosystem. Ultimately, securing these classrooms is an investment in building a credible, future-ready, and united society as the region progresses toward peace and development.”

The review of digital repositories is another forward-looking step. With universities and colleges increasingly relying on digital platforms for teaching and research, online content deserves the same level of scrutiny as printed publications. Ensuring that institutional websites and digital libraries remain free from material promoting separatism or extremism will strengthen the credibility of educational institutions and safeguard students from misleading content. At the same time, the initiative should not be viewed as a restriction on education but as an effort to improve the quality and integrity of the academic ecosystem. Students benefit most when they are exposed to credible, authentic and academically sound material that promotes scientific temper, critical thinking, innovation and constitutional values. Strengthening library systems, modernising procurement processes and encouraging regular academic reviews will ultimately enhance educational standards. The responsibility entrusted to heads of institutions also carries an important message. Principals, vice-chancellors, librarians and administrators play a crucial role in maintaining the academic environment. By making them accountable for ensuring compliance with established guidelines, the administration seeks to foster greater institutional responsibility and better governance across the education sector. The broader vision behind the initiative is equally encouraging. Education has always been one of the strongest instruments for nation-building. It promotes social harmony, creates opportunities, reduces inequalities and equips young people with the skills needed to participate in a modern economy. Ensuring that educational institutions remain focused on these objectives is essential for the progress of Jammu and Kashmir. The Government’s zero-tolerance approach towards any attempt to mislead or radicalise students sends a clear message that classrooms must remain spaces of learning, character-building and constructive engagement. As the region continues its journey towards peace, prosperity and development, safeguarding the educational ecosystem becomes an indispensable part of that process. Ultimately, the true measure of any education system lies not only in academic excellence but also in the values it instils. By strengthening oversight, improving transparency in the procurement of educational material and reinforcing constitutional ideals, the latest initiative has the potential to make educational institutions in Jammu and Kashmir more vibrant, credible and future-ready. A secure classroom today is an investment in a stronger, more informed and more united society tomorrow.

Politics is often described as the art of adaptation. Changing public priorities, evolving social realities and new governance challenges require political parties to revisit policies and recalibrate strategies. However, there is a crucial distinction between adapting to changing circumstances and constantly changing political colours to suit the mood of the moment. Increasingly, Jammu and Kashmir’s political landscape reflects the latter—a trend that risks eroding public trust and weakening democratic accountability. Political parties derive their strength from ideology, vision and consistency. Voters may disagree with a party’s position on an issue, but they are more likely to respect a leadership that stands by its principles than one that frequently shifts narratives for electoral convenience. Unfortunately, contemporary politics often appears driven less by long-term commitments and more by immediate political calculations. The tendency to reinvent political messaging with every changing public sentiment has become increasingly visible. Issues that once dominated election campaigns are quietly set aside when political circumstances change. New slogans replace old promises, while yesterday’s uncompromising positions are reinterpreted or forgotten altogether. Such shifts may offer temporary political dividends, but they also raise legitimate questions about conviction and credibility. In Jammu and Kashmir, where politics has long been shaped by sensitive constitutional, regional and identity-related issues, consistency assumes even greater importance. Every statement, every alliance and every political campaign carries implications that extend beyond electoral arithmetic. Frequent changes in political positioning not only confuse voters but also deepen public cynicism about whether parties truly stand for any enduring principles. Recent political discourse illustrates this challenge. Some parties increasingly seek relevance through symbolic gestures and emotionally charged issues rather than sustained engagement with governance and public welfare. Whether it is highlighting international developments, reviving historical controversies or attempting to align with prevailing public emotions, such strategies often generate headlines but rarely provide solutions to pressing local concerns. The electorate, however, is becoming more discerning.

“The political future of Jammu and Kashmir hinges on consistent integrity, clear policies, and genuine public service rather than fleeting public sentiment or loud campaigns. While temporary narratives might win elections, long-term public trust and historical relevance are earned by political parties that remain accountable, principle-driven, and steadily engaged with the citizens’ core issues.”

Young voters, professionals, entrepreneurs and ordinary citizens are asking different questions today. They want employment opportunities, better education, quality healthcare, improved infrastructure, transparent administration and accountable governance. They are less interested in performative politics and more concerned about measurable outcomes that improve their daily lives. Political parties should recognise that public memory is longer than many campaign strategists assume. In the digital age, speeches, manifestos, interviews and policy positions remain permanently accessible. Contradictions are quickly highlighted, and attempts to present sharply different narratives without explanation invite scrutiny. Credibility, once lost, is difficult to regain. This does not mean political parties should never change their positions. Democracies thrive when leaders acknowledge changing realities and revise policies in the public interest. But such changes must be transparent, well-reasoned and accompanied by honest explanations. A principled evolution is different from opportunistic repositioning. One reflects leadership; the other reflects expediency. The future of politics in Jammu and Kashmir will not be determined solely by who speaks the loudest or who succeeds in capturing momentary public sentiment. It will depend on which parties can consistently demonstrate integrity, policy clarity and a genuine commitment to public service. Elections may reward effective campaigns, but history ultimately rewards credible leadership. For political parties across the spectrum, the message is clear. Winning public confidence requires more than changing slogans or adopting new narratives with every shifting political breeze. It requires consistency, accountability and sustained engagement with the issues that matter most to the people. In the long run, citizens are more likely to place their trust in parties that remain faithful to their principles than in those that repeatedly change colours to suit the season.

The Jammu and Kashmir Government’s decision to withdraw two books from school libraries over content described as promoting separatist narratives has once again highlighted the immense responsibility attached to educational material. The subsequent suspension of eight officials, termination of a contractual employee, blacklisting of the authors and publishers, and the constitution of a high-level inquiry reflect the seriousness with which the administration views the matter. While the inquiry will determine individual accountability, the episode raises broader questions about the mechanisms governing the selection, review and approval of books meant for young students. School libraries are not merely repositories of books; they are institutions that shape the intellectual and moral development of future generations. The material placed on their shelves must be accurate, balanced and in harmony with the constitutional values of India. In a region like Jammu and Kashmir, where history, politics and identity remain deeply sensitive subjects, every educational resource deserves rigorous scrutiny before reaching students. Any lapse in this process can have far-reaching consequences, making robust quality-control mechanisms indispensable. The Government’s concern that certain references in the books had the potential to create law-and-order issues cannot be dismissed lightly. Educational content that presents one-sided or controversial narratives without proper academic context risks confusing students rather than educating them. Young minds require carefully curated material that encourages critical thinking based on verified facts rather than interpretations capable of deepening social or political divisions. At the same time, accountability should be established through a fair, transparent and evidence-based process. The suspension of officials and blacklisting of publishers are significant actions that carry professional and reputational consequences. The inquiry committee must therefore determine where responsibility actually lies—whether with authors, publishers, reviewers, procurement committees or approving authorities. Administrative action should ultimately be guided by facts rather than public pressure or political considerations. The incident also exposes weaknesses in the procurement and vetting process under educational schemes.

“Education should shape informed, responsible, and confident citizens, using libraries to ignite curiosity and champion constitutional values—not ignite controversy. By leveraging the ongoing inquiry, Jammu and Kashmir Government can enforce true accountability and overhaul its book-selection process, transforming a brief crisis into a transparent, academically robust framework built to serve its students.”

Books supplied to government schools generally pass through multiple stages of evaluation before approval. If objectionable content escaped scrutiny, it points to systemic shortcomings rather than an isolated lapse. Strengthening these institutional safeguards is more important than simply fixing blame after the fact. Independent subject experts, historians, educationists and curriculum specialists should be involved in evaluating books before they are recommended for schools. Such a process would reduce the possibility of controversial material slipping through unnoticed. Equally important is the distinction between academic discussion and ideological advocacy. History is often complex and contested, and students should be encouraged to understand its many dimensions. However, educational material must present historical developments objectively, supported by credible evidence and aligned with nationally accepted curricular standards. Schools are places for learning, not for advancing political narratives of any kind. The controversy should also serve as a reminder that transparency in textbook selection is essential. Public disclosure of review committees, evaluation criteria and approval procedures would strengthen confidence in the education system and reduce future disputes. Greater institutional oversight would benefit students, teachers and parents alike. Ultimately, the primary objective of school education is to nurture informed, responsible and confident citizens. Libraries should inspire curiosity, promote constitutional values and broaden intellectual horizons rather than become sources of controversy. The ongoing inquiry offers the government an opportunity not only to establish accountability but also to reform the system governing educational resources. If lessons are drawn from this episode, Jammu and Kashmir can emerge with a stronger, more transparent and academically robust framework for selecting books that truly serve the interests of its students.

The recent intervention by the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), Srinagar, in the case involving a viral video of a minor school student criticising Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister Sakina Itoo has triggered an important debate on child rights, media ethics and the culture of digital sensationalism. The CWC’s move to summon a local news portal and direct cyber police to facilitate the removal of the viral clip is a necessary reminder that children must never be reduced to instruments of political discourse or social media spectacle. At the centre of the controversy is a school-going child expressing frustration over the delayed announcement of summer vacations. The issue of school closures during extreme weather is a legitimate public concern. However, the core issue is not the child’s grievance but how that grievance was recorded, amplified and weaponised in the digital public sphere. Children often speak impulsively and emotionally. Unlike adults, they do not fully understand the consequences of public exposure. A video recorded in a moment of frustration can remain online indefinitely, affecting a child’s confidence, emotional well-being and future social interactions. This is precisely why laws protecting minors exist. The CWC has rightly highlighted the issue of consent. Interviewing and filming a minor without the informed consent of parents or legal guardians raises serious ethical and legal concerns. Recording children near educational institutions without permission from school authorities further deepens the violation. A child’s image, voice and opinion cannot be treated as content for engagement metrics. The conduct of the media portal deserves scrutiny. Journalism is not merely about capturing dramatic sound bites and uploading them before competitors. Responsible reporting requires judgment, restraint and sensitivity—especially when minors are involved. In the age of instant content, the line between journalism and exploitation is becoming dangerously thin. The public response to the video has been equally revealing. Social media quickly transformed into a space of harsh judgment, with many criticising the child’s upbringing, parenting and school environment. Such reactions expose a troubling reality: society increasingly subjects children to the same unforgiving scrutiny reserved for politicians and celebrities. The remarks by National Conference spokesperson Afra Jan deserve reflection. Her observation that society has collectively normalised disrespect toward women politicians points to a larger cultural issue. Children absorb behaviour from adults—whether at home, in schools or through public discourse. If political conversations become toxic, children inevitably mirror that toxicity. At the same time, the reaction of some private school bodies has raised questions of its own. G. N. Var and the Private Schools Association Jammu and Kashmir strongly condemned the viral video and demanded strict action against those circulating it.

“Protecting a child’s privacy, dignity, and emotional well-being requires active listening from schools, stronger ethical media safeguards, and fair law enforcement by authorities. While the CWC’s advisory on child protection is necessary, society must not use safeguarding as a shield to avoid institutional accountability, governance failures, or genuine communication issues.”

While concern for a child’s dignity is understandable, their outrage appears selective and somewhat convenient. The private school association has chosen to focus overwhelmingly on the child’s language and the social media circulation of the video, while largely ignoring the root issue that triggered the public reaction—the delay and confusion surrounding the summer vacation announcement. This selective condemnation risks appearing less like moral concern and more like institutional defensiveness. Educational bodies should be cautious about framing this solely as a matter of discipline and morality. Schools indeed play a vital role in imparting values and responsible conduct, but they must also create spaces where students can express discomfort, frustration and concerns without fear. Discipline should not become a tool to silence genuine grievances. The criticism directed at the child must also be seen in perspective. Children are still learning how to communicate emotions, disagreements and frustrations. Expecting perfect political correctness from a minor while adults themselves engage in aggressive and polarised discourse reflects hypocrisy. This incident should serve as a lesson for all stakeholders—parents, educators, journalists, content creators and policymakers. Parents must encourage digital awareness and respectful expression. Schools must listen to students more actively. Media organisations must strengthen ethical safeguards regarding minors. Authorities must enforce child protection laws fairly and consistently. Most importantly, society must remember that children deserve guidance, not public humiliation. The CWC’s advisory is timely and necessary. Protecting children’s privacy, dignity and emotional well-being must remain non-negotiable. But safeguarding children should not become an excuse for avoiding difficult questions about governance, communication failures or institutional accountability. The real challenge lies in protecting childhood while also ensuring that genuine concerns are heard, addressed and not conveniently buried beneath selective outrage.

The growing trend of outsourcing jobs in Jammu and Kashmir has sparked widespread debate among unemployed youth, civil society, and policymakers. While outsourcing may offer administrative flexibility and help address short-term staffing shortages, its unchecked expansion into permanent and essential government jobs raises serious concerns. Outsourcing may be acceptable for nominal, temporary, or project-based work, but relying on it for permanent employment is both unfair and harmful to the future of Jammu and Kashmir. Outsourcing essentially means hiring workers through private agencies or third-party contractors instead of direct recruitment by the government or public institutions. In certain sectors, this model can be practical. For example, short-term assignments, seasonal work, technical consultancy, maintenance, sanitation, and temporary support services can be efficiently managed through outsourcing. Such arrangements can help departments function smoothly without the lengthy process of formal recruitment. However, the problem begins when outsourcing becomes a substitute for regular employment. In Jammu and Kashmir, where unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges, permanent government jobs are seen not just as employment but as a source of dignity, economic security, and social stability. When permanent posts are outsourced, deserving candidates are deprived of fair opportunities, and the recruitment system becomes increasingly opaque. One major concern is job insecurity. Outsourced employees often work under unstable contracts, receive lower wages, and lack essential benefits such as pensions, medical coverage, paid leave, and career progression. Despite performing the same duties as regular employees, they are frequently denied equal pay and workplace protections. This creates a class of workers who remain vulnerable and underpaid despite their contributions. Another serious issue is transparency. Permanent government jobs are traditionally filled through competitive examinations and merit-based recruitment processes. This ensures fairness and gives every qualified candidate an equal chance. Outsourcing, however, often shifts recruitment power to private contractors or agencies, increasing the risk of favoritism, exploitation, and non-transparent hiring practices. Such systems can weaken public trust in institutions. For Jammu and Kashmir, the implications are even more significant. The region has a large population of educated but unemployed youth who invest years preparing for government examinations. Delays in recruitment have already caused frustration and uncertainty. If permanent jobs are increasingly outsourced, it sends a discouraging message to these aspirants—that merit and preparation may no longer guarantee opportunity. The long-term social impact cannot be ignored.

“Permanent jobs should be filled through fair, transparent examinations rather than outsourcing. While outsourcing short-term roles is acceptable, using it for permanent positions damages merit and job security. For regions like Jammu and Kashmir, fair employment is vital for public trust and stability; administrative convenience must never override the long-term career security of the youth.”

Stable employment contributes to economic growth, strengthens families, and reduces social distress. Permanent jobs allow individuals to plan for the future, support households, and contribute to local development. Replacing these opportunities with contractual or outsourced positions can deepen economic insecurity and widen social inequalities. This does not mean outsourcing should be completely rejected. There is a place for outsourcing in administrative systems, especially for specialized, temporary, or non-core functions. Governments often need flexibility to respond quickly to emerging demands. But there must be a clear distinction between temporary staffing needs and permanent institutional requirements. Core government positions in education, healthcare, administration, engineering, and public service should remain under regular recruitment channels. These are critical sectors that require accountability, continuity, and professional commitment. Permanent posts should be filled through transparent recruitment boards and fair examinations, ensuring that deserving candidates receive the opportunities they have worked hard for. The government must strike a balance between efficiency and justice. Administrative convenience should never come at the cost of employment security and public trust. Policymakers in Jammu and Kashmir must recognize that employment is not merely a statistic—it is directly tied to hope, stability, and the future of the region. Outsourcing for nominal jobs may be understandable and, in some cases, necessary. But outsourcing permanent jobs is a dangerous path. It undermines merit, weakens job security, and risks alienating an entire generation of youth. Jammu and Kashmir deserves a recruitment system that values fairness, transparency, and long-term opportunity over short-term convenience.