AJK Leading Pakistan and IIOJK in Growth, Development, and Quality of Life

Some segments of Indian media, the Indian establishment, and anti-state elements in Pakistan claim that governance in IIOJK exceeds that of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). They promote the misleading notion that residents of IIOJK have better facilities and greater happiness than those in AJK. However, an unbiased comparison of governance and developmental achievements in both regions reveals significant disparities, with AJK demonstrating strong governance, while IIOJK faces numerous challenges.

AJK has prospered under a stable political environment marked by smooth power transitions and a functional democratic framework. This stability has allowed the government to prioritize development initiatives and welfare programs. AJK’s economy has steadily grown, driven by investments in hydroelectric power, infrastructure, tourism, and agriculture. The region has made substantial progress in healthcare, education, and social services, leading to higher human development indicators, including life expectancy, literacy rates, and per capita income, compared to IIOJK. In contrast, IIOJK has been plagued by political instability, frequent administrative changes, and strained relations with the Indian central government. The region has endured widespread human rights violations, including restrictions on freedom of expression, assembly, and movement, especially following the abrogation of Article 370. The situation has worsened with escalating violence by Indian authorities and armed forces against civilians. The economy of IIOJK has suffered from a lack of investment, limited job opportunities, and a decline in tourism, while social unrest persists, marked by frequent protests and harsh tactics by security forces.

Additionally, claims about the affordability of basic necessities like electricity and flour in IIOJK compared to AJK are completely false. For instance, in AJK, the cost of 40 kg of flour is 2000 PKR, whereas in IIOJK, the same quantity costs 4670 Rupees. Electricity tariffs also reflect this disparity: residential rates in AJK are 3 PKR, compared to 18 Rupee in IIOJK, while commercial rates are 10 PKR in AJK and 49 Rupee in IIOJK. These differences underscore the contrasting approaches taken by the respective governments. AJK prioritizes development, stability, and the well-being of its residents, while IIOJK struggles with political instability, human rights violations, and economic stagnation.

The federal government of Pakistan has also initiated the Danish schools in AJK, which are expected to revolutionize the education sector. The student-teacher ratio in AJK is significantly better than in both Pakistan and IIOJK, where 1 teacher is responsible for 31,000 students across 1330 schools. Meanwhile, in IIOJK, Indian troops have committed numerous atrocities since 1989, with the infamous Gaw Kadal massacre in 1990, where over 50 civilians were killed. Over the past 36 years, 96,388 Kashmiris have been killed by Indian forces in IIOJK. In stark contrast, the people of AJK enjoy their lives with freedoms and liberties.

In IIOJK, media is heavily restricted, while in AJK, the media is free. Forced disappearances are routine in IIOJK, with estimates from the Association of Parents of Disappeared Persons (APDP) indicating that 8,000 to 10,000 Kashmiris have gone missing since 1989. On key indicators, AJK clearly outpaces IIOJK and even Pakistan in several areas, providing a stark contrast between the two regions. AJK, with a population of 4.45 million and a population density of 300/km², showcases effective planning and demographic stability, in contrast to IIOJK, which has a lower density of 245/km² and a growth rate of just 2.63%. AJK’s road network covers 8,865 km, with a density of 0.66 km/km², surpassing IIOJK’s 0.52 km/km² and Pakistan’s national average of 0.32 km/km². The 13th Amendment (2018) granted AJK greater legislative and financial autonomy, enhancing its self-governance. With a literacy rate of 76.8%, AJK outperforms Pakistan (62.3%) and IIOJK (67%). Meanwhile, 800 schools in IIOJK report zero enrollment, highlighting significant administrative shortcomings. AJK benefits from initiatives such as the Rs. 750 million AJ&K Education Endowment Fund and a 2% higher education quota in Pakistan, which enhance educational opportunities. The region’s healthcare system is supported by a doctor-to-patient ratio of 1:2315, which is better than IIOJK’s 1:2660. AJK also has eight hospitals, 275 Basic Health Units, and 12,542 medical professionals. The poverty rate in AJK is 22%, significantly lower than IIOJK’s 49%, and 30% of AJK’s population holds government jobs, compared to only 3.8% in IIOJK. AJK enjoys 100% telecom coverage and over 90% satisfaction with 3G/4G services, ensuring strong connectivity and fostering economic growth. Rich in natural resources like rubies, sapphires, marble, and graphite, AJK has significant untapped potential, unlike IIOJK, where political instability has hampered resource utilization. AJK operates under democratic governance that guarantees freedoms of speech, assembly, and religion, in stark contrast to the repression in IIOJK following the 2019 revocation of autonomy. Since 2019, 859 Kashmiris have been killed, and Genocide Watch has warned of potential atrocities in IIOJK, where media freedoms remain severely restricted.

AJK’s achievements reflect Pakistan’s commitment to inclusive governance and sustainable development, offering a clear contrast to the challenges faced by IIOJK under Indian policies. This comparison highlights that Pakistan, with the support of its Army and the AJK government, is fulfilling its responsibilities far more effectively than India is in IIOJK. The people of AJK must also acknowledge and fulfill their responsibilities. While AJK lacks significant industries or agricultural output and relies on Pakistan for resources, it is important to recognize the contributions of provinces like Punjab and Sindh, which have thriving industries and agricultural sectors, significantly contributing to government revenue without seeking subsidies. AJK’s contribution to tax generation and revenue is minimal. When it comes to utilities such as electricity, it is essential to consider the complexities involved in providing them, including the costs of equipment, manpower, maintenance, and operation. Similarly, commodity pricing, such as flour, must factor in all associated costs. It is vital to approach demands with a realistic and logical mindset, considering all aspects of the situation. The state is diligently fulfilling its duties, and now it is up to the people to do the same. Rather than focusing on personal gains, individuals should adopt a positive outlook and actively contribute to the welfare and progress of the entire country and state.

The people of AJK are well aware of the facts and strongly reject the propaganda spread by enemies and anti-state elements to foster hate against Pakistan and its military. Kashmiris have deep love for Pakistan and its Army, and no force can break the bond of love between Pakistan and Kashmir.