Darbar move to resume in J&K; signals cultural and administrative unity
Marking the completion of the first year in office, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Thursday announced the revival of the bi-annual Darbar Move, the century-old practice of shifting the administrative secretariat between Jammu and Srinagar, after a hiatus of over four years.
The decision, approved by the cabinet and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, marks the restoration of a tradition that symbolizes the region’s administrative and cultural unity.
Addressing a press conference in Jammu, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed that the cabinet had recommended the resumption of the Darbar Move. “The file was sent to the Lieutenant Governor and has been approved. The government is reviving the practice soon,” he stated, signaling an imminent return to the practice of relocating the secretariat and key government offices between Jammu in winter and Srinagar in summer.
This practice of shifting the ‘Darbar’ from one office to another has been ongoing since the pre-independence years and reportedly began in the 19th century by the Dogra ruler, Maharaja Ranbir Singh.
The practice, which fosters administrative accessibility and economic activity in both regions, was halted in 2021 by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, citing cost savings and advancements in e-governance.
The suspension sparked debates, with many arguing it undermined the historical and cultural significance of the tradition. The restoration of the Darbar Move is expected to boost local economies in Jammu and Srinagar, particularly in hospitality and small businesses, while reinforcing the administrative connection between the two regions. However, logistical and financial challenges, including the estimated Rs.200 crore annual cost, will require careful management.
The government is expected to issue a formal notification outlining the timeline and logistics for the resumption. The decision has been welcomed by regional stakeholders, though some may question the financial implications in the era of digital governance.
Background of the Durbar Move practice
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had declared on June 20, 2021, that the Jammu and Kashmir Administration has completely transitioned to e-office, thereby ending the practice of Bi-annual ‘Darbar Move’.
“Now, both the Jammu and Srinagar Secretariats can function normally for 12 months. This will save the government’s Rs.200 crore per year in move exercise besides rent worth hundreds of crores, which will be used for the welfare of the deprived sections,” he had said.
The Govt order No. 113-Est of 2021, dated 29-06-2021, issued by Commissioner/ Secretary, Estates Department, said ” The sanction has been accorded to the cancellation of allotment of residential accommodation of Govt officers and officials in Srinagar and Jammu.”
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