Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), also known as Azad Kashmir, is a region located in the northern part of Pakistan. The region is bordered by the Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir to the east, the Pakistani province of Punjab to the south, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province to the west, and Gilgit-Baltistan to the north. Azad Kashmir covers an area of around 13,297 square kilometers and has a population of around 4 million people.
Azad Jammu and Kashmir has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Neolithic era. The region has been ruled by various empires and kingdoms over the centuries, including the Mauryan Empire, the Mughal Empire, and the Sikh Empire. In the 19th century, the region came under the control of the British Empire, which ruled it as part of British India.
After the partition of India in 1947, the region became a disputed territory, with both India and Pakistan claiming sovereignty over it. A war between the two countries broke out in 1947, which resulted in the division of the region into two parts - Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan-administered Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The term "Azad" means "free" in Urdu, and the region is called "Azad Jammu and Kashmir" to emphasize its status as a self-governing territory. The region is governed by a president and a prime minister, who are elected by the local legislative assembly. The legislative assembly is composed of 49 members, who are elected through a system of proportional representation.
Azad Jammu and Kashmir is a mountainous region, with the Himalayas to the north and the Pir Panjal Range to the south. The region is home to several rivers, including the Jhelum, Neelum, and Poonch rivers, which are important sources of water for irrigation and hydropower generation. The region has a diverse range of flora and fauna, with several protected areas, including the Neelum Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, the Pir Chinasi Wildlife Park, and the Haji Pir Wildlife Sanctuary.
The region's economy is primarily agricultural, with crops such as wheat, maize, and rice being the main sources of income for the local population. The region is also known for its production of fruits and vegetables, including apples, apricots, and peaches. In recent years, the region has also seen a growth in tourism, with visitors coming to explore its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Azad Jammu and Kashmir is the Neelum Valley, which is located in the northern part of the region. The valley is known for its stunning natural beauty, with snow-capped peaks, gushing waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes. Visitors to the valley can also explore its cultural heritage, including the ancient ruins of Sharda, a historic Hindu temple that dates back to the 8th century.
Another popular tourist destination in Azad Jammu and Kashmir is the Muzaffarabad, the region's capital city. The city is situated on the banks of the Jhelum River and is surrounded by the Himalayas. Muzaffarabad is home to several historical and cultural landmarks, including the Red Fort, a 16th-century fort built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar, and the Pir Chinasi hill station, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Despite its many attractions, Azad Jammu and Kashmir also faces several challenges related to infrastructure development and natural resource management. The region's roads and transportation infrastructure are often inadequate to meet the needs of its growing population, leading to issues such
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