Srinagar, Feb 13: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said that the administration has been successful in ensuring that governance reaches even the most marginalized sections of society.
Speaking to gathering after inaugurating the “Jashn-e-Jammu Kashmir, a celebration of new hope in Naya J&K”, Sinha said that for the first time, citizens now believe they are being treated fairly, without discrimination or bias which shows the significant shift in the way governance is perceived across the UT.
Sinha said the last four to five years have marked a turning point for Jammu & Kashmir, particularly in governance and political stability.
He added that the recent Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections were conducted peacefully, without rigging or repolling.
He also said that contrary to past fears of violence, the elections passed without bloodshed, proving that J&K’s democratic system is stronger than ever.
He further said that campaigning continued till late hours in both urban and rural areas, showing a newfound political confidence among the people.
Sinha said that J&K is now competing with other states in various sectors and, in some areas, has surpassed national development benchmarks. Investment in industries is increasing, and the UT is moving towards a self-reliant economy.
He also said that the May 2023 G20 Summit in Kashmir showcased the UT’s modern infrastructure, cultural richness, and economic potential to the world.
Sinha said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Jammu & Kashmir is balancing development and heritage, ensuring that progress does not come at the cost of cultural identity.
He said that when J&K’s cultural ecosystem flourishes, economic growth follows naturally. He also said that Jammu & Kashmir’s infrastructure development is directly benefiting its citizens, bringing new opportunities and improving the quality of life.
Sinha said that J&K’s infrastructure growth over the past four to five years has been remarkable. He added that four years ago, only 9,000 to 10,000 projects were completed annually, but today, that number has skyrocketed to 90,000 to 100,000 projects per year.
He further said that this rapid development is proof that the J&K is on the right path. He said that every citizen now has a fair opportunity to progress, with social justice and equality forming the foundation of governance.
He also said that Jammu & Kashmir is no longer dependent on external aid but is taking charge of its own future. He added that this change is visible in various fields, from industry and technology to culture and tourism.
Sinha said that the goal of administration is to ensure that every person in Jammu & Kashmir feels secure, empowered, and treated equally under the law. He also said that discrimination has been eradicated, and governance is now based on fairness and justice.
He further said that this transformation is not just about statistics but about real change in people’s lives. He added that today, Jammu & Kashmir stands tall with self-respect, economic strength, and cultural pride.
Sinha said that with continued development, inclusive policies, and a commitment to peace, Jammu & Kashmir is set to become a model of progress for the rest of the country.