Srinagar, April 9 -- Srinagar streets display visible prosperity at every turn. Tile-covered mansions line localities, their gates gleaming, cars parked outside like trophies. Gold glitters at weddings, smartphones fill every pocket, and designer clothes mark every occasion. But behind these polished doors, another reality sits at dinner tables.

Parents count cash for school fees while youth worry about jobs and tomorrow. Families fear one medical emergency, one closed road, one bad season that stops the cash.

Houses look rich, but hearts feel heavy with tiredness and tension. This contradiction defines the modern Kashmiri financial condition.

Many families own property worth crores, plus land, gold, perhaps a small shop. Relatives pra...