Major Change in Terror Policy After Pahalgam Attack, But Kashmir Struggles On

Marking one year since the horrific Pahalgam terror strike in Jammu and Kashmir's Baisaran Valley – where gunmen targeted tourists based on faith, claiming 26 lives – economist Haseeb Drabu, ex-Finance Minister of the region, has dissected India's evolving stance on terrorism. In an interview, he described a 'doctrinal shift' where responses to attacks are now immediate and unyielding, ditching the old bureaucratic delays. Drabu pointed to a broader cultural pivot: mainstream cinema and public opinion now champion aggressive anti-terror tactics, signaling deep-rooted national solidarity. This marks a stark departure from past hesitations, fostering a united front against extremism. However, Kashmir's on-ground scenario lags. Security has tightened, but vulnerabilities persist, hampering full prevention of attacks. The tourism slump continued into this year, with the Tulip Season – a marquee event – underperforming badly. Local businesses reel, and the intangible loss of interpersonal bonds with mainland India looms large. While tourism's economic share is modest at under 8%, its role in weaving social fabrics is invaluable. Drabu critiqued the post-2019 era's unmet goals on growth and employment, exacerbated by international trade tensions hitting apple orchards hard. He called for a policy audit, enhanced community engagement, and targeted interventions to restore confidence and propel economic momentum in the valley.