Give wings to their dreams

A stark reality that is haunting Jammu and Kashmir is that 60% of youth are unemployed.
These youngsters sitting idle are not just an economic challenge but also portray a growing disillusionment among the generation next.

The J&K’s youth, brimming with potential, are sitting at home with aspirations limited to recruitment in paramilitary and police forces. This is a far cry from what the idea of "Naya Kashmir" should truly represent—a thriving hub of entrepreneurship, education, industry, and economic prosperity.

Yet, the question remains: why is India's soft power—a symbol of its economic might and cultural influence—to cross the Banihal Tunnel?

The responsibility for creating Naya Kashmir does not solely lie with its people or the security forces. It is a collective national responsibility—one that demands robust policy reforms, dismantling of systemic hurdles, and fostering an ecosystem that promotes development, employment, and prosperity. Unfortunately, what we witness today is an unhealthy narrative propagated by mischievous elements, both within and outside the system, that positions development as antagonistic to Kashmiri culture and sentiments.

A dangerous and misleading narrative has been allowed to fester—that economic progress and integration with the larger Indian economy somehow erode Kashmir’s identity.

This is not just false but deeply damaging to the aspirations of the Valley's people. Kashmir’s integration with India’s economic power would only serve to empower its citizens, providing them opportunities for growth, education, and self-reliance. Yet, this integration is being sabotaged by vested interests, who seek to perpetuate conflict and stagnation.

The truth is that India's economic strength—its soft power—has the potential to transform Kashmir into a thriving economic zone. Tourism, handicrafts, agriculture, information technology, and education are all sectors where the Valley could emerge as a leader.
The government’s machinery should be enabling these industries, not creating roadblocks that stifle entrepreneurial dreams.

India’s soft power is its greatest strength—its vast economy, cultural influence, and technological advancements are admired worldwide. Yet, when it comes to Kashmir, this soft power appears to have been deliberately restrained. Why is India’s economic might—which has lifted millions out of poverty across the country—barred from crossing the Banihal Tunnel? Why is it that Kashmir, with its immense economic potential, is denied its rightful share of development?

The soft power of a nation includes its ability to inspire hope, foster innovation, and create opportunities. It is the power of Indian industries, universities, start-ups, and cultural institutions that can reshape the Valley. Kashmir has to turn into a region where youth should not be seen waiting for jobs in security forces but working in state-of-the-art technology parks, hospitality centers, or green energy hubs.

Kashmir has to become a place where start-ups and local artisans are given a global platform to showcase their talent.This is not a far-fetched dream; it is entirely achievable. However, this vision is being sabotaged by elements who refuse to see beyond conflict. These adversaries of progress ensure that Kashmir remains dependent on security forces rather than economic growth. Their motives are clear: a prosperous Kashmir does not align with their agenda of discord and instability.

The parallels with Afghanistan are a cautionary tale. For decades, the United States and NATO poured resources into military strength while neglecting economic development and social infrastructure. The result was predictable—an eventual withdrawal that left the country vulnerable to extremist forces.

New Delhi must learn from this failed model. While security is undoubtedly essential in a region like Kashmir, it cannot be the sole focus. Investing only in military might while ignoring economic development would be a grave mistake. True, security comes from stability, and stability comes from economic empowerment, education, and opportunity.

The forces that propagate this sick narrative—that development is against Kashmiri sentiments—must be identified and held accountable. These adversaries work within the system to ensure that Kashmir remains a land of missed opportunities. They create hurdles, spread misinformation, and sabotage initiatives that could bring prosperity to the Valley.

It is the duty of the government to address these elements with urgency. The rule book must not be weaponised against national interests.

Policies and regulations should serve the people, not impede their aspirations. When businesses, entrepreneurs, and investors face roadblocks, it is not just their dreams that suffer but the entire region's future.

Kashmir deserves to be a part of India’s growth story. Its youth deserve opportunities, not limitations. The soft power of India—its economic strength, technological advancements, and cultural influence—must be allowed to flourish in Kashmir. The hurdles created by systemic inefficiencies and adversarial elements must be removed with urgency.

Naya Kashmir cannot be built by focusing solely on security forces. It will be built when the government, private sector, and citizens come together to foster economic growth, social stability, and cultural pride. The time has come to rewrite the narrative—a narrative of hope, opportunity, and progress—and ensure that Kashmir becomes a shining example of India’s development and resilience. The adversaries of progress must be taken to task, and the dreams of Kashmir’s youth must be given wings.

Sheikh Khalid Jehangir writes on Politics, Defence & Strategic affairs and is presently heading International Centre for Peace Studies, New Delhi.