KATHUA: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, and Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that abrogation of Article 370 led to revival of development with change of mindset in Jammu & Kashmir.
The Minister was addressing a training camp under the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay PrashikshanMahabhiyan–2026 at Lakhanpur on Sunday. Singh highlighted the transformative changes witnessed in Jammu & Kashmir under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Dr. Jitendra Singh said that the abrogation of Article 370 brought not only developmental transformation in Jammu & Kashmir but also a profound change in mindset, giving people the feeling of belonging as equal citizens of India. This, he said, resulted in renewed self-confidence, self-esteem and aspirational resurgence among the people. He observed that in recent years, young boys and girls from Jammu & Kashmir have overcome their fears and excelled in various fields across the country.
Recalling the passage of the legislation on Article 370, he said they had considered themselves fortunate to witness a historic moment that ushered in complete transformation in the region. He described Article 370 as contradictory to democratic values and a tool that enabled exploitation by vested interests. Singh pointed out that although interviews for several government posts had been abolished nationally from 2016, the reform could not be implemented in Jammu & Kashmir due to Article 370. He also referred to the issue of regional discrimination in earlier years, noting that people are now witnessing positive changes.
Highlighting the journey of governance since 2014, the Minister said the country had moved from an atmosphere of pessimism, negativity and corruption towards optimism, development and nation-building. He remarked that the last 12 years have significantly enhanced India’s value and standing.
Remembering the contribution of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, Dr. Jitendra Singh said the Modi Government ensured that he received due recognition by naming the Chenani–Nashri Tunnel in Jammu & Kashmir after him – the first major project in the region to bear his name.
Listing key development initiatives in Kathua and Jammu & Kashmir, Dr. Singh referred to the upcoming Biotech Park in Kathua, stating that it would enable around 25 entrepreneurs to generate employment opportunities. He noted that three out of the 14 medical colleges established in Jammu & Kashmir are located in Kathua district.
Dr Jitendra Singhhighlighted the establishment of two AIIMS institutions in the Union Territory and said Prime Minister Modi had accorded special priority to the region in view of the neglect it had suffered under earlier regimes.
Speaking about sports infrastructure, he said efforts are underway for the development of an international stadium at Hiranagar on around 300 kanal of land, with discussions being held with the J&K administration regarding land transfer.
He lauded the success of the Aroma Mission in Jammu & Kashmir, saying it is creating remarkable opportunities for livelihoods and entrepreneurship. He asserted that the present dispensation has completed several unfinished projects left pending by previous governments.
Dr. Jitendra Singh further informed that a 3000 MW power project is proposed in Kishtwar, which is expected to become one of the country’s largest power plants. Calling the present phase of governance both a matter of pride and a responsibility, Dr. Jitendra Singh urged people to maximise the opportunities created by good governance and work collectively towards realising the vision of Viksit Bharat. He expressed confidence that future generations would look back with pride and gratitude for the work accomplished during this period.
