J&K India’s integral part: Lt Governor

Tangdhar, May 14: Reaffirming that Jammu & Kashmir was, and will always remain an integral part of India, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that peace and prosperity prevail on this side of the Line of Control, while Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) continues to grapple with neglect and misgovernance.
Speaking at the inaugural function of the ‘Shaurya Gatha’ Complex at SM Hill at Tangdhar, Karnah near LoC, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, highlighted the stark contrast between development on this side of the LoC and the conditions in illegally occupied PoJK. “Jammu & Kashmir is witnessing an era of peace, progress and prosperity, while PoJK continues to suffer from neglect and misgovernance.”
“Jammu & Kashmir was, is and will always remain an integral part of India,” he added.
Sinha said, “Jammu & Kashmir is moving forward with development on all fronts. There is a renewed sense of self-confidence, and the society is prosperous and peaceful than ever before.”
Sinha said that ‘Shaurya Gatha’ Complex at SM Hill marks a significant milestone in the promotion of battlefield tourism, heritage preservation and border area development.
The Lieutenant Governor applauded Northern Command, Chinar Corps, and all officers, soldiers, engineers, workforce and local residents for the completion of the prestigious project in a short span of time. He said our brave soldiers laid down their lives to defend the motherland, and their courage and sacrifice should be instilled in every Indian as a powerful source of pride and inspiration.
“The dedication of our forces and people is the true strength of the nation. The Shaurya Gatha Complex stands as a tribute to the valour and sacrifices of Indian soldiers. This initiative will create new opportunities for border area and battlefield tourism, homestays, local crafts and youth entrepreneurship,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He also reiterated that the administration is committed to the development of the border region. He observed that the initiative like promotion of valour site under Bharat Rannbhoomi Darshan initiative will usher economic growth and prosperity in Tangdhar-Karnah region, besides showcasing the rich defence legacy and culture of the region.
He said that seven villages of Tangdhar, Karnah have been included under the Vibrant Village Programme, ensuring improved infrastructure, livelihood opportunities and quality of life.
Highlighting the importance of the Sadhna Tunnel, the Lieutenant Governor stated that it will significantly enhance connectivity, security, and economic activity in the region by providing all-weather access and facilitating trade, education, healthcare and disaster response.
“I urge citizens across the nation to visit Shaurya Gatha Complex and plan their holidays at the offbeat destinations of Kupwara”, the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor also lauded the Army for their significant contribution to the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir campaign.
“Tangdhar remains a strategic location where our neighbour persistently attempt to escalate narco-smuggling activities. The development of an airport-like facility by the Army in the region will serve as a critical asset in our mission against drug smuggling,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also called upon the police department and security forces to maintain the highest level of alertness. Our surveillance must be foolproof to ensure that no illegal drugs enters our territory, he further said.
He also expressed his deepest gratitude to the people, especially the school students for their unwavering support to Nasha Mukt J&K campaign.
Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Northern Command; Lieutenant General Balbir Singh, GOC Chinar Corps; Javaid Ahmad Mirchal, Member of Legislative Assembly Karnah; Ashwani Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Power Development Department; Maj Gen Rakesh Nair; GOC 28 Infantry Division; Brig Dharmendra Yadav, Commander, Shakti Vijay Bde, senior officers from the Army, Civil Administration, Police and Security Forces attended the inaugural ceremony. (KNO)