The quality of public policy determines the pace and direction of socio-economic development. In an increasingly complex and data-driven world, governments require policies that are informed by rigorous research, empirical evidence and stakeholder engagement. Jammu and Kashmir, with its unique geographical, socio-economic and strategic significance, is no exception. As India advances towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, strengthening institutions that promote evidence-based governance has become both a regional and national imperative.

Over the past seven decades, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed several landmark policy interventions aimed at improving the socio-economic well-being of its people. Beginning with transformative land reforms in the 1950s, successive governments have introduced important legislative and developmental initiatives in agriculture, rural governance, industrial development, public service delivery, transparency and social welfare. These initiatives have contributed significantly to the region’s development while simultaneously highlighting the need for continuously improving policy design, implementation and evaluation.

Contemporary governance increasingly demands that policy decisions be supported by robust empirical evidence, multidisciplinary expertise and meaningful stakeholder participation. Across the world, governments are strengthening collaborations with universities, research institutions and policy think tanks to ensure that public policies are responsive to emerging challenges and grounded in reliable evidence. Jammu and Kashmir is well positioned to benefit from a........

© Greater Kashmir