Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Jul 10: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that the demand for indigenous defence equipment has seen a sharp rise following the successful ‘Operation Sindoor.’
Addressing ‘Bharat Sanrachna J&K 2025’ exhibition here, Lt Governor, emphasized the importance of innovation, self-reliance, and grassroots empowerment in building a “New India.”
Pointing to the exhibits at the event, Lt Governor lauded the participation of DRDO and praised the effectiveness of indigenous weapon systems showcased in the science exhibition. “Our homegrown weapons have hit the enemy hard. Operation Sindoor stands as proof of our strategic and technological might,” he said.
“For a long time, Bharat used to run on bhagya (destiny),” Lt Governor said. “But since 2014, the country has adopted a clear roadmap under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and is now moving towards becoming a global superpower.”
Highlighting the massive transformation Bharat has witnessed in the past 11 years, Sinha noted that every citizen today is actively engaged in discussions on governance and development, particularly the delivery of schemes that have impacted lives across all sections of society. “PM Modi has not only strengthened grassroots democracy in Jammu and Kashmir but also ensured that Kashmir is now connected to Kanyakumari through an integrated railway network,” he said.
Sinha said that the separatist-issued protest calendars that once disrupted life in J&K are a thing of the past. “In Naya Jammu and Kashmir, it is our universities and JKBOSE that issue academic calendars, and young innovators are now leading from the front,” he said, “People who can’t see what has changed in Naya Jammu and Kashmir need to open their eyes and wakeup from deep slumber.”
“Within 6 years, PM Modi has written a new history of J&K. It is new J&K where children have pens in their hands and not stones, schools and colleges remain open throughout the year, where calendars of international programmes are published instead of bandhs and strikes,” he added.
“It’s a new J&K where our youth is achieving new heights in innovation and research. It’s a new J&K where our youth is now focusing on startups and starting their own business ventures. Now in the new J&K, instead of slogans of separatism, the noise of factories, tourists and people’s laughter is being heard,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The LG also hailed the rise of women-led entrepreneurship in the region. “In J&K, 37% of startups are run by women. This is a testament to the talent and capability of our youth,” he said, adding that J&K will play a pivotal role in the realization of Viksit Bharat.
Citing historical context, Sinha reminded the audience that in the 11th century, India contributed 33% to the world GDP. “Due to foreign invasions and colonization, this dropped to just 4% after independence in 1947,” he said. “But today, due to the visionary leadership of PM Modi, India has become the 4th largest economy in the world, contributing 16% to the global GDP.”
He expressed hope and confidence that by 2047, when India celebrates 100 years of independence, the country will be at par with economic giants like the United States and Europe.
Looking to the future, LG Sinha voiced optimism that J&K will not just contribute to but also lead in key sectors. “I hope J&K will one day produce astronauts. India has already made its mark in space, and there’s no reason why our youth can’t be part of that journey,” he said.
LG Sinha urged the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to rise as job creators and innovators. “You are as talented as any youth in the country. The future of Viksit Bharat runs through your dreams and determination.” (KNO)
