Irfan Yattoo / Umar Raina
Srinagar, Aug14:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said that conflict persisting in Kashmir for the past three decades has been utilized as a means of profit by certain individuals. He pointed out that these individuals have prioritized their personal financial gains, leading to the suffering of the common people across various aspects of life.
Addressing the gathering at Golden Glory Eco Park at Sonmarg, LG Sinha underscored the paradoxical nature of the conflict’s presence in Kashmir, which has, over the years, transformed into a lucrative “business opportunity” for a faction of individuals. These actors have primarily pursued their enrichment while the general population continues to bear the brunt of suffering on numerous fronts.
He swiftly underscored the committed engagement of the security forces in the active dismantling of the terrorist infrastructure and network. This unswerving endeavour aims to establish enduring tranquility in the region, he stated.
LG Sinha noted that at present, the security forces are entirely focused on eradicating terrorism with a view to ensuring a sustained atmosphere of peace in the Jammu and Kashmir region.
He conveyed that a comprehensive deconstruction of the terrorism eco-system is currently in progress, aimed at creating an environment of perpetual peace. He said that residents of Jammu and Kashmir possess the rightful entitlement to live lives that are unburdened and self-determined.
“While some individuals may seek to instigate street turmoil to regain their influence, the era of imposing external directives on lives has passed, and such attempts will be resolutely thwarted,” said LG Sinha.
Regarding allocation of land to the landless, LG expressed perplexity over the opposition to such a move. He cited the example of the Prime Minister AwasYojana (PMAY), disclosing that 2,711 individuals have already been granted land in its initial phase.
LG Sinha underscored that a home represents not just a dwelling for the impoverished but also marks the inception of their aspirations. He indicated that an additional 8,000 individuals, predominantly belonging to the Bakerwal community, are eligible for land under this scheme.
“If certain individuals find themselves in discomfort due to these developments, they will need to come to terms with that discomfort,” he said.
LG Sinha further said during this year, Sonmarg and Ganderbal have welcomed a substantial number of tourists, with approximately one million visitors.
He highlighted that the district boasts 130 available home stays, which present a valuable income-generating avenue for the local population.
LG further acknowledged the remarkable hospitality extended by the people of Ganderbal to hundreds of thousands of AmarnathYatris, asserting that each pilgrim departed with a profound message of unity, serenity, and cooperation.
“Ganderbal’s continuous progress in terms of development and the establishment of peace, expressing that the district is reaching unprecedented heights in these aspects,” he added.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Monday inaugurated a ‘Golden Glory Eco Park’ to add to the major tourist attraction in Sonamarg area of Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.
He also paid tributes to the freedom fighters and martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the motherland.
Lieutenant Governor recalled the contribution of the prominent personalities of Jammu Kashmir in building a progressive and prosperous society.
‘MeriMaatiMeraDesh’ is also a grand occasion for the society to pay tribute to its sons and daughters, who have succeeded in reaching the pinnacle in diverse fields and played a significant role in nation building, the Lt Governor said.
The Lt Governor shared the efforts of the Administration to maintain peace and accelerate economic and development activities across UT.
“We are fully committed to create business, investment and economic climate in J&K. State-of-the-art highways, rural roads and village-level women-led industries have registered a marked rise over the last few years,” the Lt Governor said.
He said, the decisive steps taken for adequate investment in infrastructure is rebuilding tourism for the future and Ganderbal has immense tourism potential to stimulate socio-economic growth.
Earlier, the Lt Governor administered the PanchPran pledge to the people and called for united efforts in taking the nation and the UT forward on the path of peace and development.
“We must set certain goals to transform our young generation’s enthusiasm, courage, and aspirations into actions,” he added.
On the occasion, the Lt Governor e-inaugurated Universal NCD Screening under comprehensive Primary healthcare through Ayush Bharat Health and wellness Centres in Ganderbal. He also launched GanderbalChronicles magazine and distributed Kits among Sakhi Club members.
NuzhatIshfaq, DDC Chairperson, Ganderbal; ShSujit Kumar DIG; ShShyambir, Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal and senior officers of civil, police administration and security forces, prominent citizens and youth were present in large numbers.
