The Darbar Move is one of the most unique and historic traditions of Jammu and Kashmir. It refers to the biannual shifting of the government offices between the two capitals — Srinagar and Jammu — every six months.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
How It Works
Under this system, the Civil Secretariat and many other government departments work from Srinagar during the summer months and from Jammu during the winter. The move covers a distance of around 300 kilometres, as thousands of officials, files, and records are transported between the two cities each year.
This process usually takes several weeks and involves the relocation of both employees and their families. Despite the effort and cost, it has been a symbol of administrative balance and regional unity in the state.
Historical Background
The Darbar Move began in 1872 during the rule of Maharaja Ranbir Singh, the Dogra ruler of Jammu and Kashmir. At that time, the decision was mainly due to climate conditions.
- Srinagar’s winters were too harsh for officials to work comfortably.
- Jammu’s summers were extremely hot.
By moving the offices twice a year, the Maharaja ensured smooth governance in both regions and also kept equal importance for Jammu and Kashmir.
Symbol of Unity
Beyond its practical reasons, the Darbar Move has always carried a deep symbolic meaning. It represents the connection between the two regions, showing that neither Jammu nor Kashmir is left out of power and attention. The movement of the administration brings a sense of inclusion to people in both cities.
For many, the practice also reflects the heritage and shared identity of Jammu and Kashmir — blending the warmth of Jammu with the beauty of Kashmir under one administration.
Costs and Challenges
The Darbar Move is not an easy task. It requires huge expenses every year for transport, accommodation, and logistics. Files, furniture, and other materials are carried in long convoys, while security arrangements are made throughout the journey.
Critics often describe it as time-consuming and expensive, but supporters see it as a necessary bond that holds the two regions together.
An Enduring Legacy
Even with changing times and modern systems, the Darbar Move remains an important part of Jammu and Kashmir’s history. It reminds people of the days when rulers valued both sides of the state equally and tried to bring them together through a single administration.
For over a century, the Darbar Move has stood as a living tradition of balance, unity, and continuity — linking the people of Jammu and Kashmir beyond the seasons and across generations.
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