For decades, the forced marriage and conversion of Christian girls in Pakistan has been a serious issue; however, successive Pakistani governments
Seven Years of Transformation: Jammu & Kashmir After the Abrogation of Article 370. By Farooq Ganderbali
August 5, 2026, marks the seventh anniversary of the historic abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganization of the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories. For many residents of Jammu and Kashmir, the last seven years have brought unprecedented peace, development and opportunities that were unimaginable for previous generations.
The Union Government has reiterated its commitment to restoring full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir at an appropriate time. However, many people believe that the present security framework under the Union Government has been instrumental in maintaining peace and defeating the ecosystem of terrorism, separatism and Pakistan-sponsored propaganda that plagued the region for decades.
Article 370 was projected as a symbol of identity, but in reality, it became a political tool used by regional dynastic and family-run parties to retain power. It failed to empower ordinary citizens and allowed separatist narratives to flourish for nearly seven decades. Pakistan exploited the prevailing political circumstances to fuel terrorism and radicalization in Jammu and Kashmir.
The historic decision of August 5, 2019, changed Jammu and Kashmir forever. Today, the youth of Kashmir have rejected the politics of graveyards and embraced the politics of growth, peace and opportunity. The slogan of stone-pelting has been replaced by the dreams of becoming doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, sportspersons and civil servants.
The transformation is visible across every sector. Educational institutions remain open and functional throughout the year. Students no longer fear prolonged shutdowns and disruptions to their academic careers. International-standard universities, colleges and medical colleges are producing talented young professionals who are contributing to nation-building. The youth of Jammu and Kashmir are today competing and excelling at national and international platforms.
Sports infrastructure has witnessed revolutionary growth. International-standard stadiums and sports facilities have been developed across districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Thousands of young boys and girls are actively participating in sporting activities. Kashmiri youth are proudly representing India at national championships and international sporting events, including competitions at the Olympic level, reflecting the immense talent of the region.
Tourism has reached record levels, bringing prosperity to thousands of families associated with the hospitality and tourism sectors. Roads, tunnels and connectivity projects have transformed travel and boosted economic opportunities across Jammu and Kashmir. Healthcare infrastructure has improved significantly, with new medical institutions and enhanced health services benefiting people in both urban and rural areas.
Women empowerment has emerged as one of the greatest success stories of the post-Article 370 era. Women are benefiting from numerous Central Government schemes related to education, entrepreneurship, healthcare, financial inclusion and self-employment. Their participation in social, economic and public life has increased substantially.
Perhaps one of the most significant changes has been the people's growing faith in democracy. After the abrogation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed historic voter participation in democratic processes, with more than 70 percent voter turnout in elections in several constituencies and regions. This reflects the people's trust in democratic institutions and their desire to shape a peaceful and prosperous future.
The social fabric of Jammu and Kashmir has also strengthened. Hindu-Muslim brotherhood, cultural traditions and religious harmony continue to flourish. The people of Jammu and Kashmir are proudly celebrating their rich cultural heritage while embracing modern opportunities. Festivals, cultural events and religious practices are being observed peacefully, contributing to an atmosphere of communal harmony and mutual respect.
Today, the people of Jammu and Kashmir are enjoying peace, development and the benefits of various Central Government welfare schemes. Youth are pursuing careers instead of conflict. Educational institutions are thriving. Sports are empowering the younger generation. Tourism is creating livelihoods. Democracy is strengthening. Women are becoming equal partners in development.
While the people are focused on peace and progress, many observers believe that certain regional dynastic political parties are eagerly awaiting the restoration of statehood primarily to regain political power and administrative control. The people, however, have clearly demonstrated that peace, security and development remain their foremost priorities.
Seven years after the abrogation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir stands transformed. The aspirations of its people are no longer defined by conflict, but by education, employment, entrepreneurship, tourism, sports and democratic participation. The greatest achievement of this transformation is a generation of young Kashmiris who have chosen hope over fear, opportunity over violence and peace over uncertainty.
The story of Jammu and Kashmir today is increasingly becoming a story of peace, democracy, brotherhood and development—a New Jammu and Kashmir moving confidently towards a brighter future.
The Union Government has reiterated its commitment to restoring full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir at an appropriate time. However, many people believe that the present security framework under the Union Government has been instrumental in maintaining peace and defeating the ecosystem of terrorism, separatism and Pakistan-sponsored propaganda that plagued the region for decades.
Article 370 was projected as a symbol of identity, but in reality, it became a political tool used by regional dynastic and family-run parties to retain power. It failed to empower ordinary citizens and allowed separatist narratives to flourish for nearly seven decades. Pakistan exploited the prevailing political circumstances to fuel terrorism and radicalization in Jammu and Kashmir.
The historic decision of August 5, 2019, changed Jammu and Kashmir forever. Today, the youth of Kashmir have rejected the politics of graveyards and embraced the politics of growth, peace and opportunity. The slogan of stone-pelting has been replaced by the dreams of becoming doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, sportspersons and civil servants.
The transformation is visible across every sector. Educational institutions remain open and functional throughout the year. Students no longer fear prolonged shutdowns and disruptions to their academic careers. International-standard universities, colleges and medical colleges are producing talented young professionals who are contributing to nation-building. The youth of Jammu and Kashmir are today competing and excelling at national and international platforms.
Sports infrastructure has witnessed revolutionary growth. International-standard stadiums and sports facilities have been developed across districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Thousands of young boys and girls are actively participating in sporting activities. Kashmiri youth are proudly representing India at national championships and international sporting events, including competitions at the Olympic level, reflecting the immense talent of the region.
Tourism has reached record levels, bringing prosperity to thousands of families associated with the hospitality and tourism sectors. Roads, tunnels and connectivity projects have transformed travel and boosted economic opportunities across Jammu and Kashmir. Healthcare infrastructure has improved significantly, with new medical institutions and enhanced health services benefiting people in both urban and rural areas.
Women empowerment has emerged as one of the greatest success stories of the post-Article 370 era. Women are benefiting from numerous Central Government schemes related to education, entrepreneurship, healthcare, financial inclusion and self-employment. Their participation in social, economic and public life has increased substantially.
Perhaps one of the most significant changes has been the people's growing faith in democracy. After the abrogation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed historic voter participation in democratic processes, with more than 70 percent voter turnout in elections in several constituencies and regions. This reflects the people's trust in democratic institutions and their desire to shape a peaceful and prosperous future.
The social fabric of Jammu and Kashmir has also strengthened. Hindu-Muslim brotherhood, cultural traditions and religious harmony continue to flourish. The people of Jammu and Kashmir are proudly celebrating their rich cultural heritage while embracing modern opportunities. Festivals, cultural events and religious practices are being observed peacefully, contributing to an atmosphere of communal harmony and mutual respect.
Today, the people of Jammu and Kashmir are enjoying peace, development and the benefits of various Central Government welfare schemes. Youth are pursuing careers instead of conflict. Educational institutions are thriving. Sports are empowering the younger generation. Tourism is creating livelihoods. Democracy is strengthening. Women are becoming equal partners in development.
While the people are focused on peace and progress, many observers believe that certain regional dynastic political parties are eagerly awaiting the restoration of statehood primarily to regain political power and administrative control. The people, however, have clearly demonstrated that peace, security and development remain their foremost priorities.
Seven years after the abrogation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir stands transformed. The aspirations of its people are no longer defined by conflict, but by education, employment, entrepreneurship, tourism, sports and democratic participation. The greatest achievement of this transformation is a generation of young Kashmiris who have chosen hope over fear, opportunity over violence and peace over uncertainty.
The story of Jammu and Kashmir today is increasingly becoming a story of peace, democracy, brotherhood and development—a New Jammu and Kashmir moving confidently towards a brighter future.
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"Trial of Pakistani Christian Nation" By Nazir S Bhatti
On demand of our readers, I have decided to release E-Book version of "Trial of Pakistani Christian Nation" on website of PCP which can also be viewed on website of Pakistan Christian Congress www.pakistanchristiancongress.org . You can read chapter wise by clicking tab on left handside of PDF format of E-Book.