‘J&K moved from stones to startups; economy doubled, separatism fading’
SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday issued a stern warning to divisive elements peddling narratives that mirror the ideology of terror outfit TRF, stating that such propaganda has previously led to tragic loss of innocent lives in Jammu and Kashmir.
Inaugurating the ‘Bharat Sanrachna J&K 2025’ exhibition and public outreach initiative in Srinagar, the Lieutenant Governor said it was deeply concerning that certain individuals were irresponsibly alleging cultural erosion, demographic changes, and the spread of alcoholism in the Union Territory.
He called these remarks false, dangerous, and reminiscent of terror-driven narratives.
“Some people are giving irresponsible statements by saying that guests are spoiling the culture of J&K. They are stating there is a demographic invasion and alcoholism is spreading. This is the similar narrative as of terror outfit TRF. I appeal to those making such statements to stop peddling such narrative. We have already lost many innocent lives due to similar statements in the past,” LG Sinha said.
Reaffirming his commitment to the real victims of terror, the Lieutenant Governor said that justice will be delivered to affected families, and that those who manipulated the SRO-43 scheme in the past will be held accountable.
He revealed that instead of deserving families, those with no entitlement — even perpetrators in some cases — were granted jobs under the scheme.
“SRO-43 was compromised in the past. Instead of those who are entitled for jobs, the killers were granted jobs. Whoever misused the SRO-43, will face the action,” he said.
He announced that jobs will be provided at the doorsteps of terror victim families, and said job letters will soon be handed over personally.
“We are honouring and delivering justice to real terror victims of Kashmir valley. I recently met such families in Anantnag. I will be handing over job letters to them in a few days,” he added.
LG also highlighted the rapid transformation of Jammu and Kashmir in recent years, crediting the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for ushering in a new era of peace, development and aspirations.
“Since 2014, our great nation is rapidly moving towards becoming a global superpower with new resolve, new thinking and a new roadmap. Within six years, the Hon’ble Prime Minister has written a new history of J&K,” LG Sinha said.
He said the new Jammu and Kashmir is defined by open schools, peaceful streets and entrepreneurial energy.
“Children today carry pens, not stones. Calendars of international programmes are being published, not calendars of bandhs and strikes. Instead of separatist slogans, the noise of factories, tourists and people’s laughter is being heard,” he said.
He added that the youth of J&K are no longer trapped in conflict but are leading in startups, research and innovation.
“It’s a new J&K where our youth are starting business ventures and achieving excellence. Under the leadership of the PM, central schemes and innovations will shape our youth’s dreams into reality. I look forward to the day when youth from J&K will join the space sector and become astronauts exploring new frontiers,” he said.
LG pointed out that in the last five to six years, the economy of J&K has doubled, and investor confidence has grown. “J&K has become a favourite investment destination. J&K Bank, which once suffered a loss of ₹1300 crore, is now making a profit of ₹1700 crore. More BPOs are also coming up in the UT,” he said.
He said the government is ensuring equal opportunities for farmers, women, deprived classes and the youth. “J&K is writing stories of its golden era. What was once impossible is now a reality,” he added. He further stated that the next 22 years could prove to be a golden phase for Jammu and Kashmir in the journey of Amrit Kaal, provided the younger generation is given the space to lead.
Praising the ‘Bharat Sanrachna J&K 2025’ exhibition, the LG said the initiative will build a bridge between people and governance by raising awareness about government schemes, welfare programmes and innovation-led development. He said the exhibition will engage students, youth, farmers and entrepreneurs, and offer real-time exposure to public services and opportunities.
LG noted the participation of key central ministries, research institutions and national agencies in the exhibition, describing it as a strong step towards inclusive development. He encouraged schools and colleges to visit the event in large numbers and inspire young minds to join J&K’s development journey.
The event was attended by Rajya Sabha MP Er. Gulam Ali Khatana, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, Director Tarmeh Events Tarun Jain, officials from the Central and UT administrations, innovators, entrepreneurs, students and prominent citizens.
