NEW DELHI, June 20: Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, has said that the abrogation of Article 370 has brought about a significant transformation in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to a new sense of aspiration, confidence, and inclusion among its people.
Speaking in an interview, the senior BJP leader highlighted what he described as a major shift in public mindset since the constitutional provisions were revoked in August 2019. According to him, the change has particularly benefited young people, who are increasingly competing and succeeding at national levels in education and professional fields.
The Union Minister observed that students from smaller towns and remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir are now performing exceptionally well in various academic and competitive examinations. He attributed this trend to growing confidence among the youth and a stronger sense of integration with the rest of the country.
“One of the most important changes has been in the mindset of the people. Young students from small towns are now emerging as toppers and achieving success in highly competitive examinations. There is a growing belief that opportunities are available to everyone, regardless of where they come from,” Singh said.
He noted that the region has witnessed what he termed an “aspirational surge,” with increasing numbers of young people aiming for careers in science, technology, administration, entrepreneurship, and other professional sectors.
According to Singh, the constitutional changes helped remove psychological barriers that had previously created a sense of separation between Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of India. He argued that many residents now feel more connected to national institutions and development initiatives.
The Minister further stated that several groups who previously faced legal and social disadvantages have benefited from the extension of constitutional rights and protections after the removal of Article 370.
He pointed to issues such as property rights for women and voting rights for certain communities that had remained unresolved for decades. Singh said the implementation of uniform constitutional provisions has strengthened the principle of equal citizenship and expanded access to opportunities for all sections of society.
The BJP-led Central Government revoked Article 370 on August 5, 2019, ending the special constitutional status of the former state of Jammu and Kashmir. Simultaneously, the region was reorganized into two Union Territories Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.
Since then, the government has consistently maintained that the move has accelerated development, improved governance, strengthened transparency, and enhanced the delivery of welfare schemes in the region.
During the interview, Singh also spoke about the issue of Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), reiterating the government’s position that the territory remains an integral part of India.
Referring to the unanimous parliamentary resolution adopted in 1994, he emphasized that Parliament had clearly stated that the entire region of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh forms an inseparable part of the Indian Republic.
The Minister highlighted that the Bharatiya Janata Party had supported the resolution and continues to stand by its principles. He said the resolution remains an important reference point in India’s policy regarding territories under Pakistan’s control.
Singh further claimed that residents living in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir have not received equal opportunities and have faced prolonged neglect under Islamabad’s administration.
Commenting on the future of the region, the Minister expressed confidence in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, saying he possesses the determination and political will required to address long-standing national issues.
According to Singh, the government’s approach towards Jammu and Kashmir has been guided by the objectives of national integration, equal rights, and inclusive development. He maintained that recent years have witnessed visible progress in infrastructure, education, healthcare, investment, and public services across the Union Territory.
The Minister also highlighted the increasing participation of youth in innovation, start-up initiatives, and national development programs. He said that greater exposure to opportunities has encouraged young people to pursue ambitious goals and contribute actively to the region’s growth.
As Jammu and Kashmir continues its developmental journey, Singh asserted that the changes introduced after the abrogation of Article 370 have laid the foundation for a more inclusive and opportunity driven future.
He concluded by saying that the emerging confidence among the youth and the broader population reflects a new chapter in the region’s progress, marked by aspirations, empowerment, and deeper integration with the national mainstream.