Srinagar, Aug 15: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha declared on Thursday that the Union Territory (UT) administration and security forces are committed to preventing any resurgence of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at the 78th Independence Day celebration at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, the LG emphasized the need for public support in eradicating terrorism from the region.
Addressing the gathering, Sinha stated, “Efforts are underway by a neighboring country to revive terrorism in J&K. We will never allow these terror designs to succeed. The people of Jammu have always opposed terrorism, and I urge them to remain united with the security forces to eliminate terrorism from our region.” He reaffirmed the determination of the security forces to dismantle terrorist networks in Jammu and Kashmir.
The LG’s comments come in the wake of a recent spate of terror attacks in the Jammu region, including an encounter at Assar, Doda, where an army captain and a foreign terrorist were killed on Wednesday. The counter-terror operation in the area is ongoing.
Sinha praised the J&K police for their bravery, noting the numerous gallantry medals awarded to officers. He also highlighted the administration’s efforts over the past five years to advance development in the UT. “For decades, certain sections of society were deprived of their rights. Today, SC, ST, OBC, Valmikis, and PoJK-WPRs are living with dignity and full voting rights,” he said.
The LG reported a significant boost in tourism following the G-20 meeting in Srinagar in May 2023. “Last year, 2.11 crore tourists visited J&K. By June 30 this year, over 1 crore tourists have already come. I am optimistic that we will see record tourist arrivals by the end of the year,” he added.
Sinha also highlighted recent infrastructure achievements, including connecting the Amarnath cave shrine and Gurez to the power grid. He mentioned plans to renew the J&K Industrial policy by the year’s end, aiming to make it more industry-friendly. “We have requested the Government of India to enhance the new policy with additional features,” he noted.
Finally, Sinha remarked on the turnaround of J&K Bank, which, after facing losses in 2019, is now a profitable institution. “The bank is no longer limited to a select few but is now a people’s bank,” he concluded.