The Darbar Move: Capital Shifts: J&K’s Biannual Migration

The concept of the seasonal change of capitals started when Shimla (then Simla) in British India was made the summer capital from the year 1864. It led to major colonial architecture and infrastructure development. The underlying reason was the pleasant cool climate and relief from the scorching heat of the plains during the summers. In addition, the proximity of Shimla to the British Army’s northern command centre and its accessibility made it an ideal location. This shifting of capitals of India continued till the independence of India in August 1947 when Delhi was designated as the permanent capital.

The same practice was initiated by the Dogra ruler, Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1876 to escape the extreme weather conditions (harsh winters in Srinagar and unbearably hot weather in Jammu) and to ensure the administration was accessible to both regions of his princely state. This move was traditionally called the Darbar move which became a historic administrative practice that played a significant role in the political, social and economic landscape of the region. This tradition involves the shifting of the state’s administrative headquarters between two cities: Srinagar in summers and Jammu in winters. The Darbar Move continued uninterrupted through the rule of the Maharajas, the British colonial period, and after the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to India in 1947, serving as a symbol of regional unity and administrative link. The move would be from May to October (Jammu to Srinagar) and from Srinagar to Jammu (November to April) till it was suspended in 2021.

It meant that tens of thousands of government employees and their families moved with the offices, significantly increasing demand for food, retail, and local services in the host city (especially Jammu in winter). Government employees required housing in both summer and winter months, leading to high rental income for property owners in both Srinagar and Jammu. The biannual exercise was a major source of revenue for transporters and logistics companies (like the JKRTC) responsible for shifting thousands of employees, files, and equipment. Critics cited a recurring cost of around ₹200 crore annually for transportation, temporary accommodation, security etc.

The practice was, however, seen as a vital symbol of administrative unity between the Kashmir Valley and the Jammu region. The physical relocation of the seat of power forced cultural and linguistic interaction, promoting a sense of shared governance and mutual understanding between the people and government employees from both regions.

It ensured that the government machinery was physically present in each region for six months, making the top bureaucracy and political leadership directly accessible to the people of the respective capital and surrounding districts, especially crucial before the full adoption of e-governance. For many, the Darbar Move is a cherished part of the region’s historical identity, a legacy of the Dogra rulers. The restoration is viewed by supporters as a powerful symbol of continuity and a commitment to preserving the region’s unique past, reinforcing the connection between the government and public sentiment.

A significant negative impact, however, was the weeks of the administrative slowdown and disruption that occurred twice a year, as thousands of files and personnel were in transit. Critics also pointed to the risk of wear and tear or loss of physical records during the journey (though this is mitigated now with e-office digitization). Critics also argue that the move is an outdated practice that leads to wastage of resources and hampers overall administrative efficiency. The recurrent expenses, logistical complications, and inconvenience to civil servants are seen as significant negatives, especially in today’s context of modern governance.

Why has it been re-introduced?

Recognizing the challenges and criticisms, there have been discussions and attempts to phase out or modify the Darbar Move. However, recent political developments and the desire to preserve cultural heritage and tradition have led to renewed debates about its reintroduction. Some state officials advocate for maintaining the move as a cultural emblem, while others push for administrative reforms to eliminate the need for relocation. However, most feel the move was a means of bonding the two regions which are culturally, socially and politically divergent. Jammu area and its people with its proximity to Punjab and Himachal Pradesh would feel alienated with Srinagar being the capital. The local economies, particularly in Jammu’s business sectors (traders, shopkeepers), suffered a sharp decline due to the sudden loss of the six-month spending cycle. The centrally administered government’s suspension of the move in 2021 after abrogation of the statehood was primarily justified by the administration as a way to save this large public expenditure of around ₹200 crore.

The Durbar Move of Jammu and Kashmir embodies a blend of tradition, practicality, and controversy. While it reflects the historical and climatic realities of the region, modernization and administrative efficiency are prompting reconsideration. The future of this practice depends on balancing cultural heritage with the demands of contemporary governance, with ongoing debates about its relevance and impact. However, for the present it is restored and is taken as a victory of the sentiments of the people of the union territory led by the National Conference, the ruling party.

Prof Upendra Kaul, Founder Director Gauri Kaul Foundation