In a ground-breaking moment for journalists hailing from Jammu and Kashmir, Danish Manzoor Bhat, a distinguished Kashmiri origin journalist and Newsweek magazine’s Editorial Director and Senior Vice President in Asia, secured an exclusive 90-minute interview with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This marks a significant milestone as perhaps the only Kashmiri journalist to have conducted such a lengthy and profound discussion with India’s head of government. Published on the cover page of the iconic Newsweek magazine in the U.S, this interview sheds light on a range of pivotal issues, with a special focus on the transformative developments in Jammu and Kashmir under PM Modi’s leadership.
Key Insights from the Interview:
Revitalizing Jammu and Kashmir: PM Modi shared his observations from a recent visit to Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the region’s transformative journey towards peace, prosperity, and development. The Prime Minister’s recount of the palpable new hope among the people of Jammu and Kashmir stands as a testament to the significant strides made in governance, development, and empowerment in the region.
Promoting Peace and Prosperity: The interview detailed the notable achievements in Jammu and Kashmir, including the attraction of over 21 million tourists in 2023 alone. This surge in tourism is a clear indicator of the peace dividend that the region is currently enjoying. Additionally, a substantial decrease in terror incidents and the eradication of disruptions such as organized protests and stone pelting underscore the success of the government’s policies in ensuring stability and peace.
Empowerment of Kashmiri Women: A highlight of the discussion was the emphasis on the empowerment of women in Jammu and Kashmir. PM Modi pointed out the significant legal and social advancements that now enable Kashmiri women to enjoy the same rights as men in terms of property inheritance and transfer, marking a historic shift towards gender equality in the region.
This exclusive interview not only serves as a platform for PM Modi to articulate his vision and achievements in Jammu and Kashmir but also showcases Danish Manzoor Bhat’s exceptional skill in bringing forth the nuances of such critical and sensitive issues. As a Kashmiri journalist engaging with the Prime Minister of India, Bhat’s unique perspective and probing questions have illuminated the intricacies of governance, development, and peace-building efforts in Jammu and Kashmir.
