Jammu Resumes Role as J&K’s Winter Capital as 154-Year-Old Darbar Move Returns

The Jammu Darbar Move resumed on Monday, November 2, as the Jammu and Kashmir administration began functioning from its winter capital after the seasonal transfer of government offices from Srinagar. The 154-year-old practice once again brings the Union Territory’s administrative machinery to Jammu for the winter months.

The Civil Secretariat, Lok Bhawan and other government offices reopened in Jammu two days after closing in Srinagar, the summer capital. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah received a ceremonial guard of honour upon arriving at the Civil Secretariat and later visited different offices to interact with officials.

Security Tightened Around Jammu Civil Secretariat

Security arrangements have been strengthened across Jammu, particularly around the Civil Secretariat and other important installations. Police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed at key locations, while additional security measures are in place along major roads and sensitive areas.

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The Civil Secretariat houses the offices of the Chief Minister, ministers, Chief Secretary and other senior government officials. The complex, along with other government buildings and residential facilities for employees, underwent renovation ahead of the reopening.

A 154-Year-Old Administrative Tradition

Introduced in 1872 by the Dogra rulers, the Darbar Move allowed the administration to shift to Jammu during the harsh winter months in the Kashmir Valley. The practice continued after Independence and became an important administrative and economic connection between the two regions.

The seasonal movement of government employees and their families traditionally supported Jammu’s local economy, particularly businesses, hotels and markets during winter.

Darbar Move Discontinued and Later Restored

The practice was discontinued in 2021 by the Lieutenant Governor-led administration, which cited the adoption of electronic office systems and the need to reduce government expenditure running into crores of rupees. The decision faced criticism, especially from Jammu’s business community, which considered the annual movement an important source of economic activity.

The Omar Abdullah-led government restored the Darbar Move in October 2025, fulfilling an electoral promise and bringing back the decades-old administrative arrangement.

With offices now operational in Jammu, the return of the Darbar Move marks another seasonal transition in Jammu and Kashmir’s administration while reviving a tradition with significant historical and economic importance.

Official Link: Jammu and Kashmir Government