Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has stated that the abrogation of Article 370 has spurred development and fostered a new mindset in Jammu & Kashmir. Addressing a training camp in Lakhanpur, the Minister highlighted the transformative changes occurring in the region under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Dr. Singh emphasized that the removal of Article 370 has not only brought about developmental progress but also instilled a sense of belonging among the people, fostering equality as Indian citizens. Information reaching TahirRihat.com suggests that this shift has boosted self-confidence and aspirations within the community.
According to Dr. Singh, young individuals in Jammu & Kashmir are now overcoming past anxieties and achieving success in various fields across the country. Reflecting on the legislative action concerning Article 370, Dr. Singh conveyed a sense of privilege in witnessing a pivotal moment that has initiated comprehensive change in the region. He characterized Article 370 as conflicting with democratic principles and serving as a tool for exploitation by vested interests.
Dr. Singh noted that while the practice of interviews for numerous government positions had been eliminated nationwide since 2016, this reform could not be implemented in Jammu & Kashmir due to Article 370. He also addressed historical regional disparities, emphasizing that positive changes are now evident.
The Minister highlighted the progress made since 2014, stating that the country has transitioned from an environment characterized by pessimism, negativity, and corruption to one of optimism, development, and nation-building. (Dr. Singh remarked that the past 12 years have significantly elevated India‘s value and standing.)
Remembering Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee’s contributions, Dr. Singh said that the Modi Government has ensured his recognition by naming the Chenani–Nashri Tunnel in Jammu & Kashmir after him, marking the first major project in the region to bear his name. He also mentioned that the government is working towards the completion of long-pending projects that had been neglected by previous administrations.
Outlining key development initiatives in Kathua and Jammu & Kashmir, Dr. Singh mentioned the upcoming Biotech Park in Kathua, which he anticipates will enable approximately 25 entrepreneurs to generate employment opportunities. He further noted that Kathua district is home to three of the 14 medical colleges established in Jammu & Kashmir.
Dr. Singh highlighted the establishment of two AIIMS institutions in the Union Territory, asserting that Prime Minister Modi has prioritized the region due to the neglect it experienced under previous administrations. He also discussed infrastructure development, stating that efforts are underway to develop an international stadium at Hiranagar on approximately 300 kanal of land, with ongoing discussions regarding land transfer with the J&K administration.
He commended the success of the Aroma Mission in Jammu & Kashmir, emphasizing its potential to create significant livelihood and entrepreneurship opportunities. Dr. Singh also shared that a 3000 MW power project is planned for Kishtwar, which is projected to become one of the country’s largest power plants. (Dr. Singh described the current governance phase as both an honor and a responsibility.)
Further, the Minister urged the public to leverage the opportunities created by effective governance and collaborate towards achieving the vision of a developed India, expressing confidence that future generations will acknowledge the accomplishments of this era with pride and gratitude. Details of the training camp where Dr. Singh made these statements were not provided.
The current political landscape in Jammu & Kashmir has seen significant shifts following the abrogation of Article 370. The region has been under central administration, and efforts are underway to integrate it more fully into the Indian mainstream. These discussions around development and governance carry weight as the region navigates its new status and future.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
Leave a Reply