What is the Significance of J&K’s ‘Darbar Move’ as Government Offices Resume in Jammu?
Synopsis
The historic ‘Darbar Move’ tradition has resumed in Jammu after four years, with 86 key government offices reopening. This significant cultural practice, initiated by the Dogra Maharajas, symbolizes the seasonal migration of governance between Jammu and Srinagar, aiming for regional equality. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah calls it a Diwali gift for the people, sparking celebrations.
Key Takeaways
Historic tradition of the ‘Darbar Move’ resumed.
86 government offices reopened in Jammu.
Initiated by the Dogra Maharajas for climatic reasons.
Signifies a return to cultural heritage .
Omar Abdullah calls it a Diwali gift for the people.
Jammu, Nov 3 (NationPress) The ‘Darbar Move’ offices have officially reopened here on Monday after a four-year hiatus, as 86 prominent offices of the Jammu and Kashmir Government commenced operations from the winter capital Jammu.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah arrived at the civil secretariat from his official residence located in the Wazarat Road area of the city, where he was warmly welcomed by the public with flowers and celebrations marking the return of a tradition that dates back over 150 years, involving the biannual relocation of the civil secretariat between Srinagar and Jammu.
This royal custom was initiated by the Dogra Maharajas of Jammu and Kashmir, who shifted their governance base between Jammu and Srinagar due to weather concerns.
As the Valley experienced cold weather towards the end of October each year, the ‘Darbar’ (Royal Court) would transition to the milder climate of Jammu, and as the temperatures soared in Jammu by late April, the royal court would return to the serene atmosphere of Srinagar.
This practice persisted post-Independence in 1947, establishing Jammu as the winter capital and Kashmir as the summer capital, which was viewed as a means to promote regional equality between the two areas.
However, this custom was halted by the Lt Governor in 2021, as the digitalization of official records and the advent of e-governance rendered the transport of extensive files and documents between Srinagar and Jammu cumbersome and unnecessary.
Businessmen and traders have expressed their support for the decision made by the Omar Abdullah administration in J&K. Omar Abdullah referred to the revival of the Darbar Move as a Diwali gift for the people of Jammu.
The chief minister received a ceremonial guard of honor at the civil secretariat, but the customary press briefing that typically follows the reopening of offices in Jammu was canceled due to the model code of conduct (MCC) in the Nagrota Assembly constituency, where a by-election is set for November 11.
Point of View
The revival of the ‘Darbar Move’ is a significant step towards restoring cultural heritage and regional balance in Jammu and Kashmir. While modernization and e-governance are essential, the return to this age-old practice underscores the importance of tradition in governance.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ‘Darbar Move’?
The ‘Darbar Move’ is a historical practice where the civil secretariat of Jammu and Kashmir alternates between Jammu and Srinagar biannually, initiated by the Dogra Maharajas for climatic reasons.
Why was the ‘Darbar Move’ halted in 2021?
The practice was halted due to the digitalization of official records and the implementation of e-governance, which made the physical relocation of documents unnecessary.
What does the reopening of the ‘Darbar Move’ signify?
The reopening signifies a revival of tradition and cultural heritage, aiming to promote regional equality and unity between Jammu and Kashmir.
Who announced the resumption of the ‘Darbar Move’?
The decision to resume the ‘Darbar Move’ was made by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who described it as a Diwali gift to the people.
What was the public reaction to the reopening?
The public reception was overwhelmingly positive, with celebrations and flower greetings welcoming the Chief Minister at the civil secretariat.
