Jammu and Kashmir’s Transformation Rooted in Sacrifice, Peace and Progress: LG Manoj Sinha
Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday delivered the keynote address at the two-day International Symposium on “Peace, People and Possibilities in Jammu & Kashmir Union Territory” organised by Vishwagram — a non-profit organisation promoting education, compassion, art and service across India.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said that the last five years have witnessed “immense sacrifices” to make Jammu and Kashmir peaceful, progressive and prosperous. He outlined a new vision of a rising Jammu and Kashmir — one that is peaceful, fear-free, prosperous, united, and where every citizen is empowered and benefits from India’s rapid progress.
“The peace visible in Jammu and Kashmir today has given everyone the opportunity to flourish with mutual respect and to live a dignified life. One can clearly see the impact of peace, the efforts of the people for a better tomorrow, and the immense possibilities that lie ahead — free from discrimination,” the Lt Governor said.
Highlighting the government’s commitment under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, LG Sinha said the administration has followed the principles of people-first governance, social justice, and equality, which have transformed both the lives of citizens and this crown jewel of the nation.
Reaffirming the administration’s resolve to dismantle the terror ecosystem, the Lt Governor said the government remains steadfast in maintaining peace, justice and equity.
“We are determined to strengthen socio-economic development and turn the dreams of our youth into reality,” he added.
Reflecting on the transformation of the Union Territory, LG Sinha noted that the sound of music and enthusiasm has replaced bullets and grenades, and that schools now echo with laughter, learning and creativity instead of the clash of stones.
“Towns like Pulwama, Shopian and Kulgam, once shrouded in silence, have become vibrant cultural and literary centres for the youth. Markets like Lal Chowk and Polo View are glowing with renewed vitality. New aspirations now float on the waves of the Vitasta,” he said.
Calling the people of Jammu and Kashmir the heartbeat of peace, the Lt Governor urged all sections of society to unite against those attempting to disturb harmony and to collectively counter the challenges of drug abuse and youth radicalization.
He further emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law to ensure sustained peace, progress and prosperity in the region.
The event was attended by Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi, Chairperson, J&K Waqf Board; Swami Jitendranand Saraswatiji; Prof. Nilofer Khan, Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir; Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir; Prof. (Dr.) Geeta Singh, National President, Vishwagram; along with heads of educational institutions, senior civil and police officers, academicians, thinkers, and a large gathering of youth.
