Statehood restoration must happen without delay: Satish Sharma

Srinagar, Dec 7: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs in Jammu and Kashmir, Satish Sharma on Saturday called for the restoration of the region’s statehood and the rights, stating that the need for the central government is to prioritize the well-being of the people of Jammu and Kashmir by providing the facilities and opportunities they rightfully deserve.
Speaking on the sidelines of a function, Sharma appealed for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. “We need to regain the rights taken from us and restore our statehood as soon as possible. Over the past 30 years, particularly in the last six, we have witnessed immense challenges. Instead of being supported, we have often been hindered.”
He called on the central government to prioritize the region’s welfare. “The Central Government must ensure that the people of Jammu and Kashmir receive the facilities and opportunities they deserve,” he concluded.
Sharma claimed that significant efforts are underway to streamline the functioning of key departments, particularly the Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution (CAPD) and transport sectors. “We are making progress. Just yesterday, I reviewed the CAPD and transport departments. Although there are challenges, we have only had about 40–50 days. Fixing decades of mismanagement will take time. It may take 11 months to set things right, and we need your support,” Sharma said.
He invited public participation in identifying areas of concern. “If there are shortcomings, point them out—we consider you as ministers, too,” he said.
Furthermore, Sharma highlighted that a recent review meeting with officials, including directors and assistant directors, had resulted in directives to address critical issues with urgency. “Who knows what might happen tomorrow or when a crisis arises? We must stay prepared. I believe our capable officers will address any shortcomings,” he added.
The Minister also claimed that the tourism potential of the erstwhile state is immense to transform Jammu and Kashmir’s economy. “Sustainable tourism is a crucial topic. I am optimistic—one day, we’ll see such a massive influx of tourists that it will feel like a windfall gain for the region. But we must be prepared—cleanliness, sanitation, and environmental care are essential,” he said.
“Tourists are our guests, and to us, they are akin to God. We must provide them with all facilities and protect them from any misguidance by disruptive elements.”
The minister added that there is a dire need to preserve nature for future generations. “What kind of legacy are we leaving for our children if we pollute our air and water? Clean air, water, and an unpolluted environment are non-negotiable,” he said.
He lauded the efforts of the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, describing him as a “dynamic leader” committed to the state’s progress. “With his leadership, we can make tourism a cornerstone of economic prosperity, providing employment opportunities for our youth while improving ourselves as individuals,” he said.
Sharma termed peace as the cornerstone of development. “Peace is the foundation of all progress. Unfortunately, our neighbors—near and far—don’t want to see us prosper. If we want to give the next generation a better future, we must offer them peace, prosperity, and sustainable development,” he said.