Winning of ‘Hearts and Minds’ in terrorism-affected areas is an essential step in restoring the trust of the population. Discuss the measures adopted by the Government in this respect as part of the conflict resolution in Jammu and Kashmir.

i) Proxy wars by Pakistan to maintain militants

ii) Extremist ideologies followed by some groups

iii) Poor connectivity and development

iv) Increased overground workers

v) Jobless youth and unemployment

The Government of India has taken various initiatives in addressing the root causes of J&K militancy →

i) Increased funding to aid the infrastructure deficits

ii) FDI allowed in properties in J&K

iii) Education and employment eg - Nayi Chetna

iv) Tourism activities eg - G20 meets at J&K

However, the militancy still persists due to →

i) the overgroundworkers giving fuel to extremist ideologies

ii) Unemployment is on rise.

• around 60% of population is youth

iii) The hybrids are a source of safe havens

iv) Pakistan continues to engage youth in proxy wars

v) Rise in educated youth towards militancy

eg) J&K police records showed increased youth participation between 2013-2015

vi) Technology used as a means to employ and propagate militancy

Further there are needs of REFORMS →

1. Involve local participation using autonomous bodies

2. Political engagement - cooperative federalism

3. Citizen led development model - empowering Gram panchayats.