JAMMU: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced his government’s decision to restore the bi-annual Darbar Move, reversing the policy introduced by the Lieutenant Governor in 2021. The previous decision to halt the century-old practice was said to save Rs 200 crore annually by ensuring the Civil Secretariat operated year-round in Jammu and Srinagar respectively. Omar’s announcement came after an extensive meeting with prominent members of Jammu’s Civil Society, his first such initiative since assuming office on October 16.
Under the Darbar Move, the Civil Secretariat, the government’s administrative hub, alternated between Jammu and Srinagar—functioning in Jammu during winter and in Srinagar during summer. Omar emphasised that the practice reflects Jammu’s unique importance, which his government will uphold.
During the three-and-a-half-hour meeting, attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, senior ministers, and administrative officials, a wide array of issues was discussed, ranging from regional bias to tourism development. Omar stressed the importance of such interactions in receiving unfiltered public feedback, pledging to convene similar meetings biannually in both regions.
He addressed concerns over Jammu’s share of tourism and outlined plans to diversify its economy. “With over one crore annual pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi, we must harness this potential to boost Jammu’s tourism. Plans for a craft and culture fair, inspired by the Surajkund Mela, are underway to showcase the region’s heritage,” he said.
Omar reaffirmed his government’s commitment to inclusivity, noting that appointing a Deputy Chief Minister from Jammu was a deliberate step to counter regional divides. He assured communities, including Kashmiri Pandits and the Sikh population, that their grievances would be addressed, and initiatives like resolving the shortage of Punjabi teachers and improving living conditions for displaced communities are in motion.
The Chief Minister also highlighted progress on Smart City projects in Jammu and Srinagar, promising new infrastructure and livability enhancements. Civil Society members hailed the initiative as a step towards transparent governance and praised the government’s outreach efforts.
“This government serves every citizen of Jammu and Kashmir, regardless of political affiliations. These dialogues provide invaluable insights, guiding us to improve governance for the betterment of all,” Omar concluded.
