The recent attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, has shocked the nation. On [insert date if available], armed militants opened fire, leading to tragic casualties. Officials say this attack is a sign of the militants’ growing desperation as peace returns to the region after years of unrest.
Security experts and government sources report that militant groups in and outside Kashmir are facing increasing challenges. Their hopes for a large uprising following the removal of Article 370 in August 2019 have not come true. Instead, life in Kashmir has seen major improvements, both economically and socially, over the past few years.
Kashmir’s Transition After Article 370
When Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, was revoked, some groups expected massive protests and renewed violence. However, the first few months saw only limited unrest. Government measures, increased security presence, and development projects helped maintain calm.
Today, Kashmir is experiencing one of its most peaceful periods in recent history. Tourism, the backbone of the local economy, has made a strong comeback. Popular tourist spots like Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Srinagar are once again seeing thousands of visitors from across India and abroad.
According to the Jammu and Kashmir Economic Survey 2024-25, the state’s economy grew by 7.06% in the fiscal year, outpacing the national average of 6.4%. This growth has led to more jobs, better infrastructure, and new opportunities for local businesses.
How Economic Growth Is Changing Lives
The revival of tourism has been a game-changer. Hotels, handicraft shops, transport services, and restaurants are seeing good business. Many families who once depended on unstable sources of income are now earning steady wages.
Investment in infrastructure has also picked up. New roads, better healthcare facilities, and modern educational institutions have been built across the region. These changes have shifted public attention away from separatist ideas toward a future focused on stability and prosperity.
Experts believe that these positive developments have weakened the narrative that Kashmiris are alienated or desperate for separation. Instead, there is a growing sense of belonging and hope among the youth.
Militants Struggle to Stay Relevant
Militant groups that thrived during periods of unrest are now finding it hard to survive. With fewer recruits and less public support, their activities have declined sharply. According to official sources, the number of active militants in Jammu and Kashmir has dropped by over 50% since 2019.
Unable to stir large-scale violence, these groups are now resorting to isolated attacks to stay in the headlines. The Pahalgam incident is seen as an example of this trend, a tragic but desperate attempt to show strength in a changing environment.
Tourism and Normal Life Under Threat
Despite the attack, officials and local leaders are confident that peace will hold. Security has been tightened across tourist hotspots, and special measures are being taken to protect visitors and residents.
Local businesses have condemned the violence and called for unity. Many community leaders say that after years of suffering, Kashmiris want to protect the peace and focus on building a better future.
The government continues to encourage investment in Jammu and Kashmir to build on the current momentum. Several new initiatives focusing on youth employment, women’s empowerment, and cultural tourism are already underway.
A Setback, Not a Step Back
The Pahalgam attack is a tragic event that reminds everyone of the challenges that remain. However, experts agree that it is unlikely to reverse the positive changes seen in the region.
Authorities are urging citizens to stay alert but also to continue supporting efforts for peace and development. As the people of Kashmir look forward to a better future, incidents like these highlight the need for continued vigilance and resilience.
