Instead of shifting the administration between Jammu and Srinagar twice a year, why not maintain fully functional administrative establishments in both cities throughout the year? Here are eight reasons why this alternative deserves serious consideration.
- Technology Has Made Physical Relocation Unnecessary
With e-office, digital signatures, video conferencing and online public services, government files no longer need to accompany officials across the mountains. An integrated digital administration can connect Jammu and Srinagar continuously. Administrative efficiency should depend on the speed of decision-making, not the physical location of bureaucrats.
- Save Hundreds of Crores in Recurring Expenditure
When the Darbar Move was discontinued in 2021, projected annual savings of approximately ₹200 crore were cited. The restored practice involves expenditure on transportation, allowances, accommodation, security and logistical arrangements. Maintaining permanent administrative establishments could reduce recurring relocation costs, although actual net savings would require an independent assessment. Public money deserves to be spent where it produces measurable benefits.
- Ensure Government Accessibility Throughout the Year
Why should citizens depend on the seasonal arrival of ministers and senior officials? Permanent administrative establishments in Jammu and Srinagar, equipped with authorised decision-makers, could ensure uninterrupted access to government. People should not have to determine which city currently houses a department before seeking official intervention.
- Strengthen Jammu’s Economy Beyond Seasonal Spending
Jammu needs permanent employment, industrial investment, business expansion and year-round economic opportunities. The seasonal arrival of government employees benefits hotels, landlords, restaurants and traders, but cannot substitute for sustained economic development. A permanent administrative presence, accompanied by meaningful investment policies, could support economic activity throughout the year.
- End the Disruption of Government Work
Every administrative relocation requires planning, packing, travel, accommodation arrangements and the reorganisation of offices. Even with digitised files, moving employees can create logistical burdens and interruptions. Permanent offices could provide greater continuity, allowing departments to concentrate on public service rather than repeatedly preparing for relocation.
- Reduce the Burden on Government Employees and Their Families
The Darbar Move can impose personal difficulties on employees required to relocate, particularly those with school-going children, elderly dependants or family responsibilities. Repeated journeys, temporary accommodation and disruption of domestic routines deserve consideration. Permanent staffing arrangements, with essential travel undertaken when required, could reduce these burdens without diminishing administrative effectiveness.
- Improve Governance in Remote Districts
Whether the Secretariat sits in Jammu or Srinagar makes little difference to a resident of Kishtwar, Poonch, Rajouri, Doda or Kupwara if essential services remain inaccessible. Savings and administrative resources could instead strengthen district offices, decentralise decision-making and improve digital service delivery. Government should move closer to citizens through empowered local institutions rather than merely alternating between two capitals.
- Preserve Regional Unity Without Moving the Government
The Darbar Move carries historical significance and symbolises the administrative relationship between Jammu and Kashmir. But regional unity need not depend on physically relocating the government. Permanently functioning secretariats in both cities, supported by digital connectivity, regular ministerial visits and equitable allocation of resources, could maintain regional balance. Unity should be reflected in development, opportunity and responsive governance, not simply the seasonal movement of official machinery.
The fundamental question is simple: If Jammu and Srinagar can both be served by permanently functioning, digitally connected administrations, why must the government continue to move twice a year?
