‘J&K Experiencing Renewed Progress & Empowerment under PM Modi’

Post-abrogation era brought positive impact on common lives & paved way for a brighter future: LG Sinha

By Sarfaraz Ahmed

In an interview lately with DD News, J&K’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha brought attention to the profound changes that have swept through Jammu and Kashmir following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic decision to abrogate Article 370 on August 5, 2019. Over the span of four years, the region has experienced a multitude of significant advancements, leaving a positive imprint on the lives of its residents and setting the stage for a future filled with promise and potential. ‘J&K Experiencing Renewed Progress & Empowerment under PM Modi’

During the interview, the Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha highlighted one of the key changes–the cessation of state violence that used to be incited by certain elements in the region.

“Previously, these incidents had contributed to a sense of insecurity and fear among the people. However, with effective measures and strategic interventions, the government has successfully curtailed such incidents, resulting in a more peaceful and stable atmosphere in the valley”, LG said.

“Another remarkable change is the drastic reduction in strike calls by separatists, terrorists, or neighboring country Pakistan. In the past, these strikes disrupted normalcy in the region and affected various aspects of daily life”, LG said.

The decline in strike calls has allowed the people of Jammu and Kashmir to lead their lives without constant disruptions, enabling them to focus on their personal and professional pursuits, he added.

Highlighting measures aimed to uplift the lives of citizens and paving way for a brighter and more prosperous future in Jammu Kashmir, the LG said that previously, certain external forces had imposed restrictions on the way people lived and made decisions. However, under the new leadership and positive policy approach of PM Modi’s government, the people of Jammu and Kashmir are now enjoying the freedom to live according to their own will and preference.

“This newfound empowerment has brought a sense of dignity and autonomy to the citizens, fostering a positive environment for growth and development”, LG said.

With the objective of enhancing the accessibility of education and healthcare services, the LG said that the infrastructural development in the spheres of healthcare and education has been another crucial aspect of the region’s progress.

“Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed the establishment of two All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), two cancer institutes, medical colleges, as well as premier educational institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT), Indian Institutes of Management (IIM), and National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT).

These initiatives are set to improve the quality of education and healthcare services in the region, making them accessible to a broader segment of the population,” LG added.

To bolster the region’s connectivity and infrastructural capabilities, the government has undertaken ambitious projects, LG informed that a total of 150 lakh crore worth of highway and tunnel projects have been initiated, aimed at expanding the road network and enhancing accessibility within Jammu and Kashmir. These developments are expected to facilitate the movement of people and goods, thus driving economic growth and prosperity.

“The positive changes in Jammu and Kashmir have had a tangible impact on the daily lives of its citizens. Once plagued by fear from terrorist activities, the region now enjoys a much safer environment, allowing shops and businesses to remain open late into the night. The newfound safety has also contributed to the growth of tourism, with sightseeing on the banks of Jhelum attracting numerous visitors and providing a mesmerizing experience”, LG said.

Reiterating PM Modi’s leadership and government’s efforts to elevate living standards and instill hope, the LG stated that overall, the changes brought about by PM Modi’s leadership and the committed efforts of the government have instilled a renewed sense of hope and belonging among the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

“They now see the region as an integral part of India’s development journey, witnessing progress, and enjoying the benefits of a positive policy approach,” LG said.