Q. 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.
Question from UPSC Mains 2023 GS3 Paper
Model Answer:
The “Winning Hearts and Minds” (WHAM) strategy counters terrorist narratives by shifting focus from purely kinetic military operations to psychological, democratic, and socio-economic integration.
Measures Adopted for Conflict Resolution in J&K
- Civic Action Programmes:
- Operation Sadbhavana: Spearheaded by the Indian Army, providing localized infrastructure, medical camps, and quality education (Army Goodwill Schools).
- Macro-Economic Empowerment:
- PM Development Package (PMDP): Accelerating socio-economic growth via massive infrastructure projects (AIIMS, highways, hydro-power).
- Youth & Livelihood Engagement:
- Targeted Schemes: Focus on skill development and employment through Himayat (placement-linked training), Umeed (women empowerment), and Mumkin (Mission Youth).
- Democratic Decentralization:
- Grassroots Governance: The Back to Village (B2V) programme and successful DDC/BDC elections ensure community outreach and direct grievance redressal.
- Soft Power Mainstreaming:
- Cultural Normalcy: Engaging youth through sports (Khelo India Centres) and reviving the tourism ecosystem to rebuild economic trust.
Sustaining these multifaceted WHAM initiatives alongside a zero-tolerance counter-terrorism policy is pivotal for curbing radicalization and realizing a peaceful, integrated Naya Kashmir.
