Time is always a big factor, and the once constantly under-fire border residents of Jammu and Kashmir are now enjoying the fruits of peace and development. We cannot choose or change our neighbours, and as such, a troublesome neighbour like Pakistan has always been a nemesis for the residents of border areas in Jammu and Kashmir. Three full-fledged wars and another one in the shape of the Kargil War had been enforced upon us, and the countless firing and shelling episodes had become the routine of the daily lives of the people residing in border villages. They suffered a lot, from not being able to till their fertile land to childrens missing school for months, no development works being undertaken due to firing and shelling, and extensive damages to the households as such. Life in temporary shelters for months, together with limited basic amenities, cannot be described in words here. Only true sufferers can feel the pain and suffering of these people. Despite a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan in 2003, repeated ceasefire violations by Pakistan have been routine, with over five thousand violations in 2020 alone. But the tough stand taken by the GoI since 2014 has changed the scenario. A simple policy of bullet for bullet, no succumbing to these blackmailing tactics, and an eye for an eye policy have produced unprecedented results: a total silence of Pakistani guns and shelling. With the resultant peace, GoI and the LG administration introduced massive border infrastructural projects: upgradation of roads, hospitals, and schools; special schemes for farmers; and loans for youth to enable them to live a normal life now. Special recruitment drives have also been undertaken for the youth of the border. There are still areas that require the administration’s immediate attention, as three years of peace are insufficient to fill the development void. But the local administration is well aware of the facts, and efforts are on to bridge the gap at the earliest. Residents are happy to live a normal life now, and one hopes there are no more ceasefire violations in the future.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
