Asif Iqbal Naik
Jammu, October 16, 2025:
In a landmark decision symbolizing continuity and administrative heritage, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced the revival of the traditional bi-annual Darbar Move in Jammu and Kashmir, ending a hiatus of more than four years.
The decision was approved by the J&K Cabinet in its meeting held yesterday, marking the restoration of the century-old practice of rotating the Union Territory’s civil secretariat and key government offices between the twin capitals — Srinagar and Jammu — with the onset of summer and winter, respectively.
The Darbar Move, a legacy of the Dogra Maharajas dating back to the late 19th century, was suspended in 2021 following the administrative restructuring and digitization drive after the reorganization of J&K. At the time, the Lieutenant Governor had justified the halt, citing cost-cutting and digitalization as reasons. Critics, however, had expressed concern that stopping the Darbar Move undermined regional representation, disrupted local economies, and weakened the symbolic balance between Jammu and Kashmir.
Announcing the revival, CM Omar Abdullah said the move aims to restore administrative balance, regional representation, and public accessibility to governance in both regions. “The Darbar Move is not merely a tradition — it is a symbol of unity, inclusiveness, and equitable governance between Jammu and Kashmir. Reviving it is a reaffirmation of our shared identity and collective responsibility,” he stated.
The revival is also expected to bring substantial economic and business benefits to Jammu, which has historically witnessed a seasonal boom during the Secretariat’s winter functioning. The arrival of thousands of government employees, officials, and their families generates increased demand for hotels, transport, markets, rentals, and local services, offering a welcome boost to small traders, shopkeepers, and the hospitality sector.
Welcoming the move, Arun Gupta, President of the Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), said, “The return of the Darbar Move will revive Jammu’s traditional winter economy, which had suffered significantly over the past four years. This decision will rejuvenate local business activity and restore the vibrancy that the city experiences during the Secretariat’s winter session.”
Senior officials said that logistical and security preparations are already underway to facilitate the upcoming winter session of the Secretariat in Jammu, expected to begin in early November. Departments have been directed to ensure smooth transition and timely transportation of records and staff.
Political observers view the decision as a significant gesture of reconciliation and regional integration, reflecting the new government’s commitment to restoring institutions, traditions, and symbols that represent Jammu and Kashmir’s unique administrative and cultural ethos.
