From Special Status to Development : J&K’s Seven-Year Journey After Article 370

New Delhi : Seven years have passed since the historic decision of August 5, 2019, when Parliament abrogated Article 370, which had granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Since then, significant differences have emerged between the two sides of Kashmir divided by the Line of Control (LoC). While Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed major developments in infrastructure, healthcare, education and connectivity, Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has continued to face challenges related to basic amenities, economic hardship and political unrest.

According to government data, Jammu and Kashmir has made considerable progress in the healthcare and education sectors over the past seven years. Two AIIMS institutions have been established, along with several new medical colleges, expanding opportunities for students pursuing medical education. Under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, eligible residents have access to health coverage of up to ₹5 lakh.

Institutions such as IIT and IIM have also strengthened the region’s higher-education infrastructure. At the administrative level, Panchayati Raj institutions have been strengthened, while Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) has helped deliver the benefits of government schemes directly to beneficiaries.

The government has also focused heavily on improving infrastructure and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. New roads, tunnels, bridges and other development projects have improved access to remote areas and contributed to greater economic activity. Tourism has also emerged as an important part of the region’s economy, with increasing attention being given to connectivity, accommodation and tourism infrastructure.

In contrast, PoK has witnessed protests over issues involving basic necessities such as flour, electricity and drinking water. Residents have repeatedly raised concerns over economic conditions, governance and shortages. Political tensions and reports of unrest have further highlighted the difficulties faced by people living in the region. Critics of Pakistan’s administration have also alleged that inadequate healthcare and educational opportunities are limiting prospects for the younger generation.

The contrasting developments on the two sides of the LoC have become a major point of political debate on the seventh anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370. The Indian government maintains that the 2019 decision has helped strengthen integration, improve governance and accelerate development in Jammu and Kashmir.

At the same time, conditions in PoK continue to remain a subject of concern, with residents demanding better economic opportunities, basic services and greater political accountability.
Seven years after the abrogation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir remains at the centre of India’s development and security narrative, while the situation in PoK continues to draw attention over its economic and political challenges.