India State Story | Jammu and Kashmir & Ladakh | A2 size poster

• Visual story of the evolution of each state (or combination of states/ UTs for joint posters) pre and post Independence , along with key figures involved 
• Map of district evolution for large states and UTs
• Interesting features on name changes and district splits
• Alluvial chart tracing the changes in districts from 1951 onwards
• Interesting, did you know.

Visual Story of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh’s Evolution

This poster chronicles the complex and often turbulent journey of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh—from a princely state with deep historical roots to its reorganization as two Union Territories in 2019. Initially ruled by Dogras under Maharaja Gulab Singh post the Treaty of Amritsar in 1846, the region came under Indian sovereignty when Maharaja Hari Singh signed the Instrument of Accession in 1947 amidst tribal invasions from Pakistan. The subsequent incorporation of Article 370 granted Jammu & Kashmir special constitutional status, reflecting its unique circumstances. Over the decades, political upheavals, wars with Pakistan, and rising regional nationalism shaped the state's trajectory, culminating in the abrogation of Article 370 and bifurcation into Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh—marking a new chapter in its integration with the Indian Union.

Spatial Dynamics and District Evolution

The poster maps the administrative evolution of the region through its many phases—princely rule, post-accession political restructuring, and eventual Union Territory formation. District reorganization reflects both governance needs and political responses, with key changes such as the creation of Kargil from Ladakh Wazarat, and later, the carving out of districts like Ganderbal, Kulgam, and Ramban. The 2024 announcement of five new districts in Ladakh further signifies a push for decentralized administration. “Did You Know?” features explore the region’s dual constitution under Article 370, Ladakh’s historical neglect and recent empowerment through Autonomous Hill Development Councils, and the strategic importance of Siachen and Kargil in India’s defense narrative. Together, these layers present a visual narrative of a region deeply shaped by geography, geopolitics, and governance reforms