Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha ji, my cabinet colleague Shri Prataprao Jadhav ji, other dignitaries, and my young friends from across Jammu and Kashmir, as well as all other brothers and sisters!
Friends,
This morning, as I prepared to travel from Delhi to Srinagar, I was filled with immense enthusiasm. I wondered why I felt so excited today, and I identified two primary reasons. However, there is a third reason as well. Having worked here for a long time, I know many from this place and have formed deep connections with various areas. Naturally, this brings back many memories. But my primary focus remained on two reasons: today's event concerning the development of Jammu and Kashmir and this being my first meeting with the people of Kashmir since the Lok Sabha elections.
Friends,
I have just returned from the G-7 Summit held in Italy last week. As Manoj Ji mentioned, forming a government three times in a row has a significant global impact. It changes how the world views our country. Other nations are prioritising and strengthening their relations with Bharat. We are very fortunate today. The aspirations of the Indian people are at an all-time high, and these high aspirations are the country's greatest strength. With such aspirations, public expectations of the government also increase substantially. After evaluating us on these parameters, the people have chosen our government for the third time. An aspirational society does not grant second chances easily. It judges solely on performance—what you have achieved during your tenure. This performance is evident to them; it does not rely on social media or speeches. After assessing the performance, the nation has given our government the opportunity to serve you all for the third time. The public has faith in us and believes that only our government can fulfil their aspirations. This confidence in our intentions and policies has been affirmed. This aspirational society demands continuous, swift performance and results. It no longer tolerates delays. The attitude of 'it will happen, we will see' is no longer acceptable. People now demand immediate answers. This is the current mood. In response to public expectations, our government delivers performance and results. It is on this basis of performance that, after 60 years—six decades—our country has elected a government for the third time. The results of this election and the formation of a government for the third time have sent a significant message to the entire world.
Friends,
The public mandate received in the Lok Sabha elections is a significant message of stability. Twenty years ago, the country experienced a prolonged period of unstable governments, during the last decade of the 20th century. Many of you are young or were not born during that time. You may be surprised to learn that such a large country held five elections in ten years. This constant state of elections meant that the country could not focus on anything else. Due to this instability and uncertainty, Bharat remained grounded when it was time for it to take off, resulting in significant losses for the country. Leaving that period behind, Bharat has now entered a new era of stable government, further strengthening our democracy. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have played a crucial role in this democratic strengthening. The vision of 'Insaniyat' (humanity), 'Jamhuriyat' (democracy), and 'Kashmiriyat' (composite culture) that Atal Ji envisioned is now becoming a reality.
In this election, you have championed democracy, breaking records of the past 35-40 years, demonstrating the youth's strong faith in democracy. I am here today to thank my Kashmiri brothers and sisters in person. Your enthusiastic participation in this election has upheld the flag of democracy. This marks the beginning of a new chapter on the path laid by Bharat's democracy and constitution. I would have been happier if our opposition had also praised my Kashmiri brothers and sisters, encouraged them, and celebrated the enthusiastic participation in Kashmir's democracy. The large voter turnout and the atmosphere of excitement are truly commendable. It would have pleased me greatly if the opposition had recognised and boosted the morale of my Kashmiri brothers and sisters. Unfortunately, the opposition has disappointed the country even in this positive development.
Friends,
The transformation in Jammu and Kashmir is the result of our government's efforts over the past ten years. After independence, our daughters and people from other weaker sections of society here were deprived of their rights. Our government has granted rights and opportunities to everyone, following the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.' For the first time, refugees from Pakistan, our Valmiki community, and families of sanitation workers have received the right to vote in local body elections. The long-standing demand of the Valmiki community to receive benefits under the SC category has been fulfilled. Seats have been reserved in the Assembly for the ST community for the first time. Communities such as the 'Paddari tribe,' 'Pahari ethnic group,' 'Gadda Brahmin,' and 'Koli' have all been given ST status. OBC reservation has been implemented for the first time in Panchayat, Nagar Palika, and Municipal Corporation elections. This demonstrates our dedication to the Constitution and its greatness in both letter and spirit. The Constitution offers an opportunity to change the lives of 140 crore Indians, granting them rights and making them partners.
However, for many years after independence, this great asset of the Constitution was denied by the rulers in Delhi. Today, I am glad that we are living the Constitution and finding new ways to improve life in Kashmir through it. The Indian Constitution has now been truly implemented in Jammu and Kashmir. Those who failed to implement the Constitution until now are guilty; they have wronged the youth, the daughters, and the people of Kashmir. Friends, all this good work has been possible because the divisive wall of Article 370 has now fallen.
Brothers & Sisters,
The world is witnessing the transformations taking place in the Kashmir Valley. Delegates from the G-20 group who visited here were particularly impressed, frequently praising Kashmir and its hospitality. The hosting of an international event like the G-20 in Srinagar fills every Kashmiri heart with pride. When our children play and laugh late into the evening at Lal Chowk, it brings joy to every Indian. The bustling cinema halls and markets light up everyone's faces. I recall the recent spectacle of sports cars showcased along the banks of Dal Lake, which captured global attention. This is a testament to how far Kashmir has progressed. Discussions about record-breaking tourism are now commonplace here, and tomorrow's International Yoga Day will also attract tourists. Last year, as Manoj Ji mentioned, more than 2 crore tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir, setting a new record. This influx boosts local employment, accelerates income growth, and expands businesses.
Friends,
I work tirelessly day and night for my country and my fellow citizens. Everything I do, I do with good intentions. I am working with utmost sincerity and dedication to alleviate the suffering endured by previous generations in Kashmir. We are making every effort to bridge all gaps, whether they are emotional or geographical, ensuring that every region and family in Kashmir benefits from democracy and progresses together. Funds from the central government were provided even in the past, but today, every penny is spent on your welfare. We ensure that the money is used for its intended purposes and that the results are visible. There is nothing better than the people of Jammu and Kashmir electing their representatives at the local level and finding solutions to problems through them. Therefore, preparations for the assembly elections have begun. It won't be long before you elect a new government for Jammu and Kashmir with your vote. The day is approaching when Jammu and Kashmir will once again shape its future as a state.
Friends,
Just a short while ago, projects worth over Rs 1500 crores for the development of Jammu and Kashmir have been launched. Additionally, projects worth Rs 1800 crores for agriculture and related sectors have commenced. I extend my congratulations to the people of Jammu and Kashmir for these initiatives. I also commend the state administration for their swift recruitment in government jobs, with approximately 40,000 government positions filled in the last five years. During this event itself, about 2000 youngsters have received employment letters. The substantial investment of lakhs of crores of rupees in Kashmir is generating thousands of new jobs for the local youth.
Brothers and Sisters,
Significant work is being done across various sectors in Jammu and Kashmir, including road and rail connectivity, education, healthcare infrastructure, electricity, and water. Thousands of kilometers of new roads have been constructed under the PM Gramin Sadak Yojana. New national highways and expressways are being developed in Jammu and Kashmir, and the Kashmir Valley is now connected by rail. Every Indian feels proud upon seeing the world's tallest railway bridge built over the Chenab river. For the first time, the Gurez valley in North Kashmir has been connected to the electricity grid. Opportunities are being created in agriculture, horticulture, the handloom industry, sports, and startups in Kashmir. I recently met the young entrepreneurs involved in the startup ecosystem. I was delayed in arriving here because I wanted to listen to them extensively as they had a lot to share; their confidence was incredibly inspiring. Many have left promising studies and careers to dive into startups and have made significant achievements. Some began their ventures two or three years ago and have already established their names. They have startups in various fields, including Ayurveda, food, information technology, cyber security, fashion design, and homestays that will boost tourism. This means that there can be startups in so many areas within Jammu and Kashmir. It was a joyous moment for me, friends, to see the youth of Jammu and Kashmir making their mark in the world of startups. I congratulate all these young entrepreneurs.
Friends,
Today, Jammu and Kashmir is emerging as a major hub for start-ups, skill development, and sports. I believe the sports talent in Jammu and Kashmir is exceptional. With the infrastructure we are developing, the arrangements we are making, and the promotion of new sports, I am confident that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir will excel in the international sports arena. The children of Jammu and Kashmir will bring glory to our country, and I can see this happening before my eyes.
Friends,
I was informed that around 70 start-ups have been established in the agriculture sector here. This signifies a revolution in agriculture. The new generation's vision to modernize agriculture and their global market perspective is truly inspiring. Over 50 degree colleges have been established here in recent years. This is no small feat. Comparing the progress of the last 50-60 years since independence with the achievements of the past decade reveals a stark difference. Increased seats in polytechnics have provided local youth with opportunities to acquire new skills. Today, Jammu and Kashmir boasts an IIT, and an IIM. Moreover, AIIMS is under construction, and several new medical colleges have been established here. Skills are also being developed at the local level in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Online courses for tourist guides and the establishment of youth tourism clubs in schools, colleges, and universities are all happening extensively in Kashmir today.
Friends,
The daughters of Kashmir are significantly benefitting from the development work in Jammu and Kashmir. The government is running campaigns to provide training in tourism, IT, and other skills to women associated with self-help groups. The 'Krishi Sakhi' program was launched just two days ago, and today, more than 1200 women in Jammu and Kashmir are working as 'Krishi Sakhis'. Additionally, the daughters of Jammu and Kashmir are receiving training under the Namo Drone Didi Yojana, becoming pilots. When I launched this scheme in Delhi a few months ago, the Drone Didis of Jammu and Kashmir had also participated. These initiatives are increasing the income of women in Kashmir and providing them with new employment opportunities. Our government is rapidly moving towards the goal of making 3 crore women across the country 'Lakhpati Didis'.
Brothers & Sisters,
Bharat is progressing towards becoming a major global power in tourism and sports, and Jammu and Kashmir holds tremendous potential in both these sectors. Today, excellent sports infrastructure is being developed in every district of Jammu and Kashmir. Around 100 Khelo India centres are being established, training approximately 4,500 youngsters for national and international competitions, which is a significant number. In terms of winter sports, Jammu and Kashmir is becoming the winter sports capital of India. At the fourth Khelo India Winter Games held here in February, over 800 players from across the country participated. Such events will pave the way for future international sports events in the region.
Friends,
Heartiest congratulations to you all for this fresh zeal and enthusiasm! However, those against peace and humanity are displeased with the progress of Jammu and Kashmir. They are making a last-ditch effort to halt development and disrupt peace. The government takes the recent incidents of terror very seriously. The Home Minister has reviewed all arrangements in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir administration. I assure you that no stone will remain unturned in dealing with the enemies of Jammu and Kashmir. The new generation of Jammu and Kashmir will enjoy lasting peace. We will continue to strengthen the path of progress that Jammu and Kashmir has chosen. Once again, I thank you all for these various new projects. Tomorrow, the message of International Yoga Day will be sent out to the entire world from the land of Srinagar. What could be a more beautiful occasion than this? My Srinagar will once again shine on the global arena. My best wishes to all of you. Thank you very much!
