Jammu, 25-02-2025: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha emphasized that there is no scope for confrontation between Raj Bhawan and the Union Territory Government if both remain committed to the goals of development and peace. He reiterated that the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is a firm commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
In an interview with a national Hindi news channel, Sinha asserted that all top commanders of terrorist outfits have been eliminated and that local recruitment has reached its lowest levels. This development, he said, has unsettled Pakistan, which is now attempting to push infiltrators across the border. Addressing a question about the relationship between Raj Bhawan and the Chief Minister’s office, Sinha stressed that conflicts in governance only hinder public welfare and developmental progress. He maintained that when the goal is development and peace, there is no reason for confrontation, as any rift ultimately results in delays that impact the people.
On the issue of statehood, Sinha recalled that Amit Shah had assured Parliament that it would be restored, while Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed the commitment on International Yoga Day in Srinagar. He pointed out that while Kashmir had long remained a hotspot for terrorism, Jammu had largely been peaceful, prompting a reduction in the presence of security forces in the region. However, Pakistan, seeking to disrupt the situation, attempted to infiltrate terrorists into Jammu. He noted that whenever Pakistan faces internal challenges or witnesses peaceful elections in India, it tries to create disturbances in Jammu. In response, security forces in the region have been significantly bolstered to counter these threats.
Sinha acknowledged that the winter operations against terrorists in Jammu did not yield as many successes as expected. However, he reaffirmed that efforts are ongoing to establish lasting peace, adding that the people of Jammu are known for their nationalism and will not tolerate any attempts to disrupt harmony. He declared that the fight against terrorism extends beyond eliminating militants and that security forces are systematically dismantling the entire terror ecosystem. He emphasized that while the one who pulls the trigger is a terrorist, the real battle against terrorism will not be won until its entire support network is dismantled. As part of these efforts, the government has dismissed 76 employees with proven terror links.
Sinha highlighted the transformation in Kashmir’s socio-political landscape, stating that bandh calls, stone-pelting, and strikes orchestrated by separatist elements have become a thing of the past. He noted that shutdowns were once enforced at the behest of Pakistan, but today, the administration issues academic and business calendars with the full support and cooperation of the people. Reflecting on the smooth conduct of elections in Jammu and Kashmir, Sinha emphasized that Lok Sabha and Assembly elections were held without any incidents of violence or the need for repolling. He stated that, for the first time, candidates could campaign late into the night without security concerns, and no political party raised allegations of rigging.
The return of cinema and Bollywood to Jammu and Kashmir, he said, was another sign of the region’s changing landscape. Cinema halls have reopened after 32 years, and Bollywood film shoots have resumed in the region. Following the successful G20 Summit, foreign tourist arrivals have also increased significantly, further boosting the local economy. On the industrial front, Sinha highlighted the massive rise in investment proposals following the launch of the New Industrial Development Scheme in 2021. He pointed out that from Independence until 2021, J&K had received only ₹14,000 crore in industrial investments, but after the introduction of the new policy, investment proposals worth ₹1.65 lakh crore have been received.
The incentives offered under this scheme, which ended on September 30, 2024, were unparalleled in comparison to other states. Of the total investment proposals, projects worth ₹33,000 crore are already on the ground, and production has commenced for investments worth ₹10,000 crore. Sinha acknowledged that land availability was a major challenge, but the administration took proactive steps to expand the land bank and accommodate new industries. He further noted that Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a record-breaking tourist influx of 2.36 crore visitors last year, contributing to the region’s economic revival.
On the economic front, Sinha highlighted significant improvements in revenue generation and growth. He stated that tax and non-tax revenues have increased by 45% over the past four years, with Jammu and Kashmir’s economy expanding from ₹1.64 lakh crore in 2018-19 to ₹2.63 lakh crore at present. He noted that the Union Territory’s economy is currently growing at a rate of 9.5%. To ensure financial stability, the administration has undertaken austerity measures, reducing unnecessary expenditures to allocate more resources for development projects. He also assured that all recruitment processes are being conducted in a completely transparent manner.
Sinha concluded by emphasizing that Jammu and Kashmir is on a steady path toward stability and progress. With strengthened security measures, increased investments, economic growth, and the restoration of democratic processes, the region is moving toward a brighter future. He expressed confidence in the resilience and determination of the people, stating that with continued efforts in governance and development, J&K is well-positioned for long-term peace and prosperity.