Jammu and Kashmir Revives 150-Year-Old Darbar Transfer After Four-Year Hiatus

• The Darbar Transfer — the seasonal shift of government offices between Srinagar (summer capital) and Jammu (winter capital) — has been revived this winter after a four-year suspension . The tradition, paused in 2021 due to financial concerns, dates back to 1872 under Maharaja Ranbir Singh .

Administrative Details:

• Srinagar offices , including the Civil Secretariat, will close on October 31 and reopen in Jammu on November 3 .

• 38 key departments , including Revenue, Forest, Transport, and Technical Education, will relocate fully.

• 47 departments will operate from temporary camps in Jammu during the winter.

Historical Context:

• Introduced to ensure effective governance across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh , facilitating administrative access despite harsh weather and connectivity challenges.

• Originally involved moving official records via horses and mules .

Cost and Controversy:

• Annual expense estimated at ₹200 crore .

• Criticised for lacking legal or constitutional basis, though locals see it as a symbolic link between regions and a boost to Jammu’s winter economy.

Related GK Facts:

• Similar dual-capital systems exist in Maharashtra (Mumbai–Nagpur) and Himachal Pradesh (Shimla–Dharamshala).

• Distance between Jammu and Srinagar is approximately 270 km via national highway .

Significance:
The revival of the Darbar Move maintains regional administrative balance, supports Jammu’s economy, and preserves a unique heritage governance practice .