First Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir is a state located in northern India. It was initially under the rule of Maharaja Hari Singh, who signed the Instrument of Accession with India on 26 October 1947. After this, the state was governed by a Prime Minister instead of a Chief Minister. The first Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir was Sheikh Abdullah.
Who was Sheikh Abdullah?
Sheikh Abdullah was a prominent political leader from Jammu and Kashmir. He was born on 5 December 1905 in Soura, Srinagar. He was educated at the Mission School in Srinagar and later at the Aligarh Muslim University. Abdullah was a key figure in the Indian independence movement and the Kashmiri nationalist movement. He founded the All Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Conference in 1932 and later founded the National Conference in 1939.
Sheikh Abdullah as the Prime Minister
After the signing of the Instrument of Accession, Sheikh Abdullah became the Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir on 15 October 1947. He continued to hold the position until 9 August 1953, when he was dismissed by the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Karan Singh. Abdullah was arrested and imprisoned for 11 years on charges of sedition.
Accomplishments as the Prime Minister
During his tenure as the Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Sheikh Abdullah implemented several reforms and policies that aimed to modernize the state and improve the lives of its people. Some of his accomplishments include:
- Introduction of land reforms that abolished feudalism and allowed tenants to own land.
- Establishment of the Jammu and Kashmir University in 1948.
- Introduction of free education for girls.
- Creation of a state-controlled electricity board.
- Establishment of the Jammu and Kashmir Bank in 1938.
Conclusion
Sheikh Abdullah was a visionary leader who worked tirelessly for the betterment of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. His contributions to the state are remembered to this day and continue to inspire generations of Kashmiris.