AND THE PROMISE OF A BETTER TOMORROW POST-370

World Smile Day, celebrated every year on the first Friday of October, 4th October this time around, is a global celebration of kindness and optimism that holds profound significance in the context of Kashmir. Historically marred by conflict and uncertainty, the region is now on a path of integration and progress after the Articles 370 and 35A abrogation. As Kashmir steps into the mainstream of India’s development story, World Smile Day becomes a powerful metaphor for hope, unity, and the promise of a brighter future for the region and its people.

For over seven decades, the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir under Articles 370 and 35A created an atmosphere of isolation and political uncertainty. While the rest of India embarked on a journey of development and progress post-independence, Kashmir remained largely disconnected, unable to fully participate in the country’s socioeconomic growth. The special provisions often acted as a barrier, limiting the investment, infrastructure development, and opportunities that could have flowed into the region. While there was an argument for maintaining Kashmir’s unique cultural identity, the unintended consequences of these articles created a situation where governance was stifled, corruption flourished, and the aspirations of the youth were constrained. Radical elements from across the border in Pakistan further worsened the situation, manipulating the sense of alienation to fuel militancy and unrest in the Valley. On August 5, 2019, the Indian government took the bold step of abrogating Articles 370 and 35A, effectively revoking Jammu and Kashmir’s special status.

This move marked the beginning of a new era for the region. Kashmir became fully integrated into India’s legal and political framework for the first time in over seven decades. With this integration came the promise of development, equality, and national unity. It also allowed the region to finally benefit from India’s social, economic, and political systems. This transformative decision was met with resistance from certain quarters, both within the region and internationally. However, for most Kashmiris, especially the younger generation, it was a moment of relief and optimism. They gradually began to realise the potential of this change. World Smile Day, in this sense, is symbolic of the hope that the abrogation represents – the possibility of peace, development, and a better future for every Kashmiri.

The abrogation has paved the way for economic development, which was long overdue in Kashmir. With the removal of restrictions on land ownership, businesses from across India can now invest in the region. This has led to increased infrastructure development, tourism, and job creation. Large-scale projects, such as road construction, the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail link expansion, and tourism promotion, have brought significant employment opportunities to the youth. World Smile Day is a reminder that economic growth can change lives, uplift families, and bring smiles to the faces of those who have long been deprived of opportunity. The newfound economic momentum in Kashmir is not just about statistics and reports; it’s about people finding jobs, families having financial stability, and communities seeing a tangible improvement in their quality of life.

One of the greatest assets of Kashmir has always been its breathtaking natural beauty. Often described as “Paradise on Earth,” the Valley has long been a popular tourist destination. However, years of instability have taken a toll on the region’s tourism industry. Post-abrogation, tourist footfall has significantly increased, and efforts are being made to tap into Kashmir’s global hub potential. Promoting adventure tourism, including trekking, skiing, and water sports, attracts domestic and international tourists. New destinations, like Gurez, Kupwara, and Lolab Valley, are gaining popularity, helping to diversify the region’s tourism offerings beyond the traditional spots like Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. Religious tourism is also reviving, with essential pilgrimage sites like Amarnath Yatra and the Kheer Bhawani Temple attracting thousands of devotees yearly. With improved infrastructure and safety measures, religious tourism is set to flourish, contributing to the region’s overall development and helping to integrate Kashmiri culture with India’s rich spiritual traditions. World Smile Day, in this context, signifies the rejuvenation of a region known for its hospitality and scenic splendour. As tourism grows, so does the hope of a prosperous future for the people who rely on this industry for their livelihoods.

One of the most profound impacts of the abrogation has been the social and political integration of Kashmir with the rest of India. Kashmiris were caught in a web of political ambiguity for decades, unsure of their place within the Indian Union. Now, they are fully-fledged citizens with the same rights and opportunities as people in other parts of the country. Women, in particular, have benefited from this change. Under Article 35A, women who married outside the state lost their inheritance rights. The abrogation has corrected this injustice, allowing women to maintain their rights regardless of whom they marry. This is a significant step forward in the fight for gender equality in the region. It’s a story of empowerment and inspiration, where women reclaim their rights and stand on equal footing with men. Kashmir’s youth, who had long been susceptible to radicalisation and influenced by external forces, are now steered towards positive growth and development avenues. Education, entrepreneurship, and skill development programs have been launched to empower the younger generation. By fostering a sense of national pride and belonging, these initiatives are helping to counteract the harmful influences that have plagued Kashmir in the past.

As Kashmir continues integrating with mainstream India, the region is experiencing a cultural shift. There is a growing sense of optimism, a belief that better days are ahead. The people of Kashmir are beginning to see the benefits of development, fostering a sense of hope and renewal. The narrative is no longer about conflict and strife but growth, peace, and opportunities. World Smile Day is a poignant reminder of the power of positive change. The abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A was a turning point in Kashmir’s history. While challenges remain, the region is on the right track, with the Indian government and various stakeholders working tirelessly to ensure that the fruits of development reach every corner of the Valley.

On this World Smile Day, Kashmir has much to celebrate. The region is no longer trapped in the shadows of uncertainty but is emerging as a beacon of hope. Economic growth, social justice, and national integration are bringing smiles to the faces of the people who have waited far too long for change. With the collective efforts of the government, the private sector, and the people of Kashmir, the Valley is poised for a future that is not only prosperous but also peaceful. As the world celebrates kindness and positivity on this day, let us remember the journey that Kashmir has embarked upon – a journey towards unity, development, and, ultimately, lasting happiness for its people.