AJK

Azad Jammu and Kashmir, commonly abbreviated as AJK, is a self-governing administrative division of Pakistan. It forms part of the larger Kashmir region, a territory whose final status has been the subject of a long-running dispute between India and Pakistan. The capital is Muzaffarabad. AJK is bordered by the Line of Control with Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, by the Pakistani province of Punjab to the south, and by other Pakistan-administered territories to the north and west. The region is mountainous and includes the Jhelum and Neelum river valleys.

The population is predominantly Muslim, with Kashmiri, Pahari, and Gujari communities. Common languages include Urdu (the official language), Kashmiri, Pahari, and Gujri. The economy relies on agriculture, livestock, forestry, and expanding hydroelectric and tourism sectors. Hydropower facilities such as the Mangla Dam and projects on the Neelum and Jhelum rivers contribute to Pakistan’s electricity supply. Tourism centers include Muzaffarabad and the Neelum Valley, known for scenery and trekking opportunities.

Azad Jammu and Kashmir has a constitutional framework with a parliamentary form of government. It maintains an elected Legislative Assembly and a Prime Minister who heads the government, while a President serves as the ceremonial head of state. Foreign affairs, defense, and certain reserved matters are managed by the federal government of Pakistan. The region’s political status is tied to the broader Kashmir conflict, and the final disposition remains unresolved between India and Pakistan, with Islamabad administering AJK as part of its federal structure.