Hartals a thing of past in JK: Lt Guv
Says UT now known as hotspot for tourism, development
Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir used to be a hotspot of terrorists, but now it is known as a hub of tourism and development activities as shutdowns are a thing of the past and every day is normal now, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said here on Friday.
“Jammu and Kashmir used to be the hotspot of terrorists, but now it is known as a hotspot of tourism and developmental activities. The schools and colleges used to remain shut on the strikes called by the neighbouring country and the students did not get an opportunity to study. But, now those days are over,” Sinha said addressing a function here.
He said Kashmir would witness shutdowns for almost half of the year, and ‘hartal calendars’ would be issued, but now those days are a thing of past and life was normal throughout the year.
“Everyone knows that there used to be 150 days of hartals a year. Every year, on January 1, a hartal calendar used to be issued. But, now, life is normal all 365 days. We have tried, and have been successful in keeping the businesses, schools, colleges, and universities functioning normally here,” he added.
The LG said the youth, who are the future of Union Territory and the country, should get education in a good environment so that they lead the country in the future.
“But, peace and calm is important for that. Everyone should keep this in mind that without peace, development and progress is not possible in J&K,” he said.
Referring to the increase in the influx of tourists in Jammu and Kashmir, Sinha said while 1.88 crore tourists visited the Union Territory last year, the number will cross the two-crore mark this year.
The Lt Governor who attended the valedictory function of CBC, Ministry of I&B’s Multimedia Exhibition in Srinagar, said that in past 9 years under the leadership of PM Shri Narendra Modi, the country has transformed into economic powerhouse and a model of inclusive development for the world.
India has emerged as a key driver of global growth and the countries from both North and South are looking at us with admiration and hope, he said.
He aid that the country is witnessing fastest development of infrastructure, empowerment of marginalized and emergence of a self-reliant and aspirational society.
The Lt Guv said that benefits of development are reaching to all sections of society and they are fully participating in the progress of the nation.
“Jammu Kashmir stands proudly on development parameters tall and full of self-confidence. Benefits of development are reaching to all sections of society and they are fully participating in the progress of the nation,” the Lt Governor said.
The Lt Governor said: “The strength of youth, women & farmers and aspiration of the society are taking J&K to new heights. Together,we have to create viksit Jammu Kashmir in Amrit Kaal and it should be our collective responsibility to ensure every city & village aims higher and realizes their aspirations”.
“Women and Youth are the architects of J&K’s strong and glorious future. The recent reforms and initiatives have brought new momentum to schemes aimed at their empowerment and abundant opportunities for entrepreneurship for a new socio-economic revolution,” the Lt Governor added.
Addressing the youth, the Lt Governor said the revolutionary National Education Policy, under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister has the potential to change the future of the country.
He also shared the progress achieved in various sectors and the saturation of centrally sponsored and UT sector schemes.
Due to the strenuous efforts of Prime Minister, we will be able to achieve success in providing tap water to every household under ‘Har Ghar Nal Se Jal’ by the end of this financial year, he added.
On the occasion, the Lt Governor also visited the stalls installed by various departments highlighting the numerous initiatives and welfare programs of the government.
Rajinder Choudhry, Additional Director General PIB, Chandigarh; senior officers of Civil Administration, Police and Central Bureau of Communication, teachers, students and youth in large numbers were present.
