As I reflect on the journey of my village, Uri in Baramulla district, and the UT of Jammu and Kashmir, my heart swells with pride and hope. The abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, marked a turning point in our history, ending an era of darkness and ushering in a new era of enlightenment.
For decades, our village and state were shackled by political instability and exploitation. Regional parties plundered our resources, leaving us in a state of utter neglect. The provision had become a tool for political manipulation, perpetuating a cycle of corruption and misgovernance. We were denied basic amenities, development, and opportunities, while the political elite prospered.
But on August 5, 2019, our lives changed forever. The abolition of Article 370 brought us out of the abyss and into the light. It connected us to the rest of the country, bridging the gap between our state and the national mainstream. We are now part of the fabric of India, with equal opportunities and benefits.
Today, I see a new Jammu and Kashmir rising from the ashes. I see development, progress, and unity. I see a future filled with promise and prosperity. The government’s initiatives have brought development to our doorstep, and we are experiencing a new era of growth.
As I look around, I see the faces of my fellow citizens, filled with hope and determination. I see the smile of a child, the sparkle in a mother’s eyes, and the pride in a father’s heart. I see a nation united, a nation strong, and a nation proud.
The transformation of Jammu and Kashmir is a testament to the power of courage and leadership. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope. And it is a tribute to the resilience of our people, who have faced adversity with courage and determination.
I am proud to call Jammu and Kashmir my home, and I am proud to be a part of this great nation. The story of our transformation is a beacon of hope for the entire country, a reminder that together, we can overcome any challenge, and achieve greatness.
In this new era, I am heartened to see the youth of Jammu and Kashmir taking an active interest in politics. They are engaging in political discussions, joining political parties, and even contesting elections. The recent Lok Sabha election in J&K marked a significant triumph for independent candidates, reflecting the involvement of youth in politics. I personally urge the youth to come forward and join politics. Your participation is crucial in shaping the future of our state and our nation.
Furthermore, I am thrilled to see the growth of entrepreneurship and innovation in our UT. Young minds are coming up with innovative ideas, and startups are flourishing. This is a testament to the talent and potential of our youth. We need to encourage and support them, to create a vibrant ecosystem that fosters growth and development.
I am pleased to see the focus on education and healthcare in our UT. New schools and hospitals are being built, and existing ones are being upgraded. This will ensure that our children have access to quality education and healthcare, and are equipped to compete with the best in the world.
Let us march forward together, with hope in our hearts and prosperity in our sights. Let us build a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and our nation. Let us make Jammu and Kashmir a shining example of progress and development, a testament to the power of unity and determination.
The transformation of Jammu and Kashmir is a story of hope and resilience. It is a reminder that with courage and determination, we can overcome any challenge, and achieve greatness. Let us continue to march forward together, with hope in our hearts and prosperity in our sights.
(Author is a practicing lawyer at J&K High Court, Srinagar and can be reached at [email protected])
