Jammu and Kashmir and PoJK Show Divergent Economic Paths

Seven years after the 2019 abrogation of Article 370, the regions of Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) have developed contrasting economic and political trajectories. The Government of India manages the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, which has seen steady growth according to a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General. The region's Gross State Domestic Product rose from Rs 1.68 lakh crore in 2020-21 to Rs 2.62 lakh crore in 2024-25, with per capita income reaching Rs 1.55 lakh.

In contrast, PoJK is experiencing severe economic distress and political unrest. Official data shows an 11 percent unemployment rate, with youth unemployment reaching 27 percent. This instability has triggered widespread public discontent and civil disobedience campaigns led by the Joint Awami Action Committee. Protesters in the region are demanding a fair share of local hydropower resources and subsidized wheat flour amid reported human rights violations.