This refers to the write up by Anil Anand (GK 21 Nov’2011) regarding creation of new smaller states. The author expresses desire of a  section of political spectrum in Jammu & Ladakh regions of J&K to carve out separate statehood for these two regions of the state. He has inferred that the people in the valley are silent on the issue and are ignoring the aspirations of the people of the other two regions for their political benefits. The state governments so far, according to him, have been discriminating towards these two regions, denying them political power and economic prosperity. Nothing can be farther from reality. Under the Single Line system of district administration in  vogue in the state since 1977, it is the particular District Development Board constituted with concerned MLA’s, MLC’s  and other local members that formulate plans for development and State Cabinet approves the plan in accordance with final deliberations and approved Plan Outlay for the District, both under State Plan and District Plan. Statistics reveal that per capita expenditure in these two regions is higher than that of valley.
   Amit Kushari (IAS Retd.) in his view point (GK 15-11-2011) had very clearly and elaborately delineated the reasons for disenchantment in the various regions of the state. While one may not agree with his observations and conclusions in totality, he has correctly said that people of J&K state have diverse political aspirations and there is an element of distrust among various regions. In Ladakh, Leh district aspires for union territory status, its Kargil district does not favour the idea. Similarly some districts in Jammu may vote for separate state, others namely Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Rajouri & Poonch have not expressed their opinion in favour or against. The solution lies in ascertaining the opinion of these regions district wise to decide on any steps to reorganize the state. It is a fact that valley people have not favoured division of the state on ethnic or religious basis but may be reorganization of state may usher in more prosperity to all regions if people so desire. So far valley has been lagging behind inspite of its huge potential for development, partly on account of disturbed conditions besides lack of effective coordination among various executing agencies. The process of concerted planning has also been adversely affected resulting in shortfalls in physical and financial targets. In comparison the working conditions in Jammu & Ladakh have been very congenial which has resulted in utilization of surrendered financial outlays from the valley after exhausting their own.

Lastupdate on : Sun, 27 Nov 2011 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Sun, 27 Nov 2011 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Mon, 28 Nov 2011 00:00:00 IST