(Written by: Abdul Basit Alvi)
Some anti-state elements propagate misleading information suggesting that AJK lags behind both Pakistan and IIOJK in several key indicators, which is completely inaccurate. The data clearly demonstrates that the conditions and statistics for AJK are significantly better than those for IIOJK and Pakistan. With a population of 241.49 million in Pakistan, AJK’s population stands at approximately 4.45 million, accounting for 1.8% of the total, and 2.45 million, or 1.01%, when excluding the diaspora.
A population growth rate indicates a more favorable economic and educational profile, although it also places additional pressure on the economy, job market, and housing. The existing road network spans 8,865 km, giving AJK a road density that is double that of Pakistan and superior to that of IIOJK. The 13th Amendment (2018) transferred financial and legislative powers from the AJK Council to the AJK Legislative Assembly, enhancing autonomy in alignment with other provinces.
While the population of AJK is smaller than that of District Rawalpindi, its administrative structure and civilian government are comparable to those of a province. AJK has a road density of 0.66, compared to 0.32 in Pakistan and 0.52 in IIOJK. The literacy rate in AJK is 76.8%, in contrast to 62.3% in Pakistan and 67% in IIOJK. The school-to-pupil ratio in AJK is 1:49, while it is 1:16 in both Pakistan and IIOJK. The teacher-to-student ratio stands at 1:7 in AJK compared to 1:44 in Pakistan and 1:20 in IIOJK.
It is noteworthy that 800 government schools in IIOJK have zero enrollment. In line with the population, a 2% quota is reserved for AJK higher education in Pakistan, with 125 seats allocated across 22 universities. The Government of Punjab has allocated Rs 750 million for the KEEF (AJ&K Education Endowment Fund). Additionally, 36 seats are reserved in medical colleges in Punjab for students from AJ&K. AJK boasts the best literacy rate, indicating a strong desire for education and adequate resources. Considering the actual resident population (2.45 million), the doctor-patient ratio in AJK is better than in IIOJK.
Approximately 1,180,000 patients are treated at Army medical facilities annually. Furthermore, all AJ&K residents are entitled to free medical treatment at military health facilities, which significantly share the healthcare load in AJK. The doctor-patient ratio is 1:2315 in AJK, 1:2405 in Pakistan, and 1:2660 in IIOJK.
The tax-to-GDP ratio in AJK is 7.77%, compared to 10.4% in Pakistan. The poverty/unemployment rate is 22% in AJK, 23.1% in IIOJK, and 43% in Pakistan. AJK has a 7% employment quota in the army. The price of 40 kg of wheat flour is Rs 2000 in AJK, Rs 4680 in IIOJK, and also much lower than in Pakistan. Approximately 3.24% of the population is employed in the Army/CAFs.
Thirty percent of the population holds government jobs, which accounts for a significant portion of the annual budget. The per-unit electricity tariff is Rs 3-6 in AJK, compared to Rs 3.95-42.70 in IIOJK and Pakistan. AJK and GB are the only regions with 100% telecom density. Independent quality of service surveys show that over 90% of residents have confidence in 3G/4G signal strength in AJK, with SCO and Zong providing the best webpage loading times.
AJK has a significantly higher number of telecom towers compared to IIOJK and Pakistan. Although AJK’s population is smaller than that of District Rawalpindi, its administrative structure is equivalent to a province, constraining financial resources for priority sectors. Approximately 35.24% of the population is employed in the Army, Civil Armed Forces, Federal, and AJK Government, demonstrating the state’s commitment to its people.
Modern-day AJK was liberated by local Kashmiris rebelling against the Maharaja’s exploitative and cruel governance, primarily targeting Muslims. The relationship with Pakistan has always been vital, with Kashmiris deeply committed to unification with Pakistan. The narrative of an ‘Independent Kashmir’ is not supported by facts.
The stark contrast between Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Indian-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) is a testament to the stark differences in governance, human rights, and overall quality of life. While AJK, under Pakistani administration, has made significant strides in development and democracy, IIOJK continues to grapple with oppression, human rights violations, and a stifling atmosphere.
Azad Jammu and Kashmir, stands as a beacon of hope for the Kashmiri people. The region has made considerable progress in various sectors. AJK enjoys a democratic system with elected representatives, ensuring people’s participation in decision-making. The region upholds fundamental human rights, allowing freedom of speech, assembly, and religion. Significant investments have been made in education and healthcare, leading to improved literacy rates and healthcare access. AJK has witnessed substantial infrastructure development, with improved roads, communication networks, and public facilities.
The region’s economy has shown steady growth, creating employment opportunities and improving living standards. In stark contrast, IIOJK remains under the iron grip of Indian occupation. The region has been subjected to Human Rights Violations including Mass killings, enforced disappearances, torture, and arbitrary detentions are rampant. Frequent curfews and lockdowns stifle basic freedoms and hinder economic activities. Internet shutdowns and restrictions on media coverage are used to suppress dissent. Kashmiri political leaders are often incarcerated or exiled, denying the people their right to representation. The region’s economy has been crippled by conflict and Indian policies, leading to high unemployment and poverty rates.
The disparity between AJK and IIOJK clearly highlights the impact of India’s oppressive policies in the region. The international community must pressure India to respect human rights, end the occupation, and allow the Kashmiri people to determine their own future. The superior development indicators in AJK demonstrate Pakistan’s prioritization of AJK’s development and progress over other parts of the country. The Kashmiris, particularly those in AJK, recognize and appreciate Pakistan’s significant contributions and reject all propaganda and misinformation intended to sow hate and despair among the people.
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