Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Aug 23: Asserting that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have stood firmly against Pakistan and terrorism sponsored by it, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said that the fear of terrorists and their ecosystem has ended in the region.
Interacting with the members of Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), here, Lieutenant Governor said, “During the past five years, the people of Kashmir have stood firm against Pakistan and its disruptive agenda. Everyone has acknowledged this change, and J&K has now come at par with other regions of the country.”
Sinha said that train has connected Kashmir with Kanyakumari in spirit and development. “Days of fear are over and Jammu and Kashmir is marching on the path of peace, prosperity, and integration with the rest of the nation,” he added.
Highlighting the change in the ground situation, LG Sinha said that in the past, Pulwama was synonymous with violence, but today the district has more industries than Srinagar. “Hundreds of people from villages in Pulwama proudly joined the Tiranga Yatra this year, showing their faith in peace and progress,” he added.
Recalling the grim past when Pakistan-backed shutdowns paralysed Kashmir, the LG said, “There used to be 150 days of hartals in a year at the behest of Pakistan. Terrorists dictated terms, and after any encounter in which a terrorist used to get killed, schools, colleges, and markets across the Valley were shut forcibly. That dark chapter has ended.”
He said, “Now Lal Chowk remains open till late in the night, and there is a new vibrancy in Kashmir’s streets.”
Sinha also pointed out the major dip in terrorist recruitment, noting that only one local youth has joined terrorist ranks this year. “This is a clear sign that the youth of Kashmir have rejected Pakistan’s propaganda and embraced peace,” he said.
He praised the peaceful conduct of Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, which recorded the highest polling percentage in 35 years. “Politicians freely carried out their campaigns till late in the night, something unimaginable in the past,” the LG said.
The Lieutenant Governor said, “Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a remarkable transformation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the region is now emerging as one of the favourite investment destinations in the country.”
“Investments worth thousands of crore rupees have already arrived in J&K, with new industries and opportunities being created for the youth,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor appreciated the efforts of the Indian Chamber of Commerce to promote the interests of trade, commerce, and industry in Jammu Kashmir. He said the ICC’s members meeting at Srinagar will provide a platform for networking and collaboration for local businesses.
“India is one of the oldest civilizations in the world. For us, relationships are not transactional. It is based on compassion and brotherhood. Our unique cultural heritage and traditional values have made our economy resilient and established India as a great and powerful nation.
By organizing this meeting in Srinagar, Indian Chamber of Commerce has also assured the industrial ecosystem that no terrorist force can ever subdue India. This event in Srinagar is a huge statement against the enemies of our great nation and it will inspire Industries in J&K to aim for greater goals,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor spoke about the investment opportunities, prevailing peace and economic transformation taking place in Jammu Kashmir over the past few years.
“Under the leadership of PM Modi, Jammu Kashmir is witnessing the industrial revolution and UT of J&K has emerged as an attractive destination for investment. We have achieved historic milestones in road, air, and rail connectivity, successfully extending the reach of industrial investment to every corner of Jammu & Kashmir,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor also lauded the significant contribution of the Indian Chamber of Commerce in policy advocacy, partnership with the global business community and discharging its responsibility of connecting investors, regulation for a business-friendly environment and increasing India’s competitiveness in the global market.
He said the role of the Indian Chamber of Commerce, as one of the important pillars of our strong economy is extremely important in the historic and transformative journey of India towards Viksit Bharat in 2047.
The Lieutenant Governor also thanked all the business leaders and stakeholders who have contributed to attracting domestic and foreign investment and establishing India as a stable and strong economy.
He assured industry players and potential investors of all necessary support and handholding to explore profitable investments and economic opportunities in J&K.
Abhyuday Jindal, President, Indian Chamber of Commerce and Managing Director, Jindal Stainless Limited; Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary Industries & Commerce Department; Dr. Rajeev Singh, Director General Indian Chamber of Commerce; Rahul Sahai, Chairman, ICC Jammu Chapter; Khalid Wani, Chairman ICC Kashmir Chapter; business leaders, members of Indian Chamber of Commerce and senior officials were present.
