Says UT witnessing era of peace, progress while PoK suffers neglect, misgovernance
Inaugurates Shaurya Gatha Complex at Tangdhar to promote battlefield tourism
RK News Service
Tangdhar, May 14: Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing an era of peace, progress and prosperity while Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) continues to suffer from neglect and misgovernance, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Thursday as he reaffirmed that J&K was, is, and will always remain an integral part of India.
The LG was speaking after inaugurating the ‘Shaurya Gatha’ Complex at SM Hill in Tangdhar, Kupwara district, a project aimed at promoting battlefield tourism and border area development.
“J&K is moving forward with development on all fronts. There is a renewed sense of self-confidence, and society is more prosperous and peaceful than ever before,” the LG said.
He applauded the Northern Command, Chinar Corps, and all officers, soldiers, engineers, workforce, and local residents for completing the prestigious project in a short span of time.
“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,” Sinha said.
He reiterated that the administration is committed to the development of the border region, observing that initiatives like the promotion of valour sites under the Bharat Rannbhoomi Darshan initiative will usher in economic growth and prosperity in the Tangdhar-Karnah region, besides showcasing the rich defence legacy and culture.
Seven villages of Tangdhar and 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 LG stated it will significantly enhance connectivity, security, and economic activity 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 LG said.
The Lieutenant Governor lauded the Army for their significant contribution to the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir campaign, noting that Tangdhar remains a strategic location where the neighbour persistently attempts to escalate narco-smuggling activities. He called upon the police and security forces to maintain the highest level of alertness and ensure foolproof surveillance so that no illegal drugs enter Indian territory.
He expressed deepest gratitude to the people, especially school students, for their unwavering support of the Nasha Mukt J&K campaign.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, GOC-in-C Northern Command; Lieutenant General Balbir Singh, GOC Chinar Corps; MLA Karnah Javaid Ahmad Mirchal; Additional Chief Secretary Power Development Ashwani Kumar; senior officers from the army, civil administration, police, and security forces.