Highlights peace, progress, people-first governance as J&K turns a corner from conflict to stability
KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, July 21: In a comprehensive reflection on Jammu and Kashmir’s transformation since 2020, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has said that the people and history will ultimately judge the change that has unfolded over the last five years. Speaking to a national television channel, Sinha described the journey of J&K as one of revival and resolve—marked by peace, development, and the restoration of public trust.
Taking charge on August 7, 2020, at a time of political and security turbulence, Sinha said his administration focused on three pillars: peace, prosperity, and people-centric governance. “Stone pelting and hartals are now history,” he remarked, highlighting the visible shift in public life. “Today, schools and colleges run without interruptions, markets thrive, and even nightlife has returned to the Valley—something once unimaginable.”
He emphasized that the region’s economy has seen significant improvement, stating, “The economy of J&K has nearly doubled in the last five years.” Sinha, however, acknowledged that development is a continuous process and added, “People and history will be the best judges of what has changed compared to what used to happen earlier.”
Sinha also touched upon the government’s emotional outreach to families affected by terrorism. Recalling one such encounter with a grieving family where a father of three was killed and only one child was offered a job, he said, “It moved me deeply. We’ve taken corrective steps since then—reopening old massacre cases, filing FIRs, and restoring properties seized by militants. Our aim is comprehensive rehabilitation.”
On the issue of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah not being invited to security review meetings, LG Sinha clarified, “The State Reorganization Act defines everyone’s jurisdiction. I respect that framework. I share cordial ties with the Chief Minister and whenever there are differences, we resolve them through dialogue.”
Reflecting on the most difficult aspect of his tenure, Sinha said, “Ensuring the complete integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the Indian Union and establishing full sovereignty were our biggest priorities. Under Prime Minister Modi’s guidance, we’ve achieved those milestones.”
Turning to tourism, LG Sinha noted that the initial impact of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack was severe. “Tourist arrivals slowed down, but we have rebounded. Over two lakh pilgrims have already joined the 38-day Amarnath Yatra. Hotels in Sonamarg and Pahalgam are packed, and occupancy in Srinagar is around 40%,” he added, while lauding the warmth and hospitality shown by local Kashmiris.
He also defended the decision to suspend helicopter services for the yatra, citing national security and prior aviation mishaps. “There was a credible drone threat this year. Safety came first,” he said.
Speaking on cross-border security and propaganda from Pakistan, LG Sinha underlined India’s assertiveness. “Operation Sindoor exposed Pakistan’s false narratives. Our indigenous military strength and modern defense infrastructure have become strong deterrents.”
When asked about future plans, Sinha reiterated his commitment to honest governance. “My mission remains the same—serve with sincerity and integrity. The leadership of Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah has been historic for Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
He concluded by recognizing the rising participation of women in public life and leadership roles. “J&K’s progress will be incomplete without women-led development. Their involvement across all sectors is a sign of our social evolution,” the LG said.
With significant milestones achieved and critical challenges addressed, LG Sinha’s message was clear: Jammu and Kashmir is on a path that blends security with opportunity, guided by the belief that a brighter future is no longer a distant dream, but a living reality.
