Addressing the Path to Peace in Jammu and Kashmir
During a recent seminar titled “J&K’s March Towards Peace,” held as part of a lecture series organized by Gandhi Smriti in New Delhi, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha delivered an insightful address. The event also saw the inauguration of a newly developed Gandhi Smriti Art Gallery, with former Union Minister and Vice-Chairman of Gandhi Smriti, Vijay Goel, in attendance.
A Deep Connection Between Gandhi and Jammu and Kashmir
In his keynote speech, the Lieutenant Governor emphasized the enduring connection between Mahatma Gandhi and the state of Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted how Gandhi’s philosophy continues to inspire the Union Territory and its education system, which is actively instilling values such as truth, non-violence, and compassion among the youth.
Gandhiji viewed Jammu and Kashmir as a place of hope and envisioned peace and progress for the region. The Hon’ble Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has been working to fulfill this dream by building a fear-free and terror-free Jammu and Kashmir. This effort aims to position the region among the developed states and UTs as a symbol of peace.
Commitment to Establishing Lasting Peace
The Government of India, along with the police and security forces, remains committed to eradicating the entire terror ecosystem and establishing lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir. The policy is driven by the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, emphasizing the establishment of true peace rather than temporary solutions.
India has successfully established its authority in Jammu and Kashmir, and the common citizens have come to understand that their future lies with India. The youth are being guided towards creating a more prosperous future for the region, and their increasing involvement plays a crucial role in this transformation.
Combating Terrorism and Ensuring Stability
Local terrorist recruitment has reached an all-time low, thanks to decisive actions against terrorism and those facilitating it. Thorough investigations into individuals attempting to radicalize the youth have ensured that peace prevails in the region.
Every year, a month-long peace march is organized in the Kashmir valley to commemorate Pujya Bapu’s birth anniversary. Events such as Gandhi Jayanti, Teachers Day, Har Ghar Tiranga, Independence Day celebrations, and numerous national integration programs across the UT reflect Jammu and Kashmir’s reclamation of its legacy as a land of peace.
Youth are now aware that Jammu and Kashmir, as envisioned by Bapu, is a state of unity and peace. This shift has unsettled the terrorist nation of Pakistan, which constantly tries to undermine the soul of India and its cultural-spiritual fabric. The aim of the Pahalgam terrorist attack was to halt the economic progress of the UT, but the region continues to move forward with renewed strength.
Confronting the Threat from Pakistan
Terrorism is deeply embedded in the DNA of Pakistan, and they continue to spread it. The global community must unite against this terrorist country. The Government of India is determined to completely eliminate terrorism and the remnants of the terror ecosystem. Strict action will be taken against anyone who speaks the language of terror outfits. Those behind the Pahalgam terror attack have been identified, and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is conducting an investigation, ensuring that the perpetrators meet the same fate as other top terror commanders.
Transformation Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Leadership
The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted the significant transformation across various sectors in Jammu and Kashmir under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He described the era following the abrogation of Article 370 as a defining moment in the history of the region. The Union Territory has achieved remarkable milestones in recent years, setting new paradigms for inclusive development. The economy has doubled in the last five years, marking a significant step forward in the region’s growth and prosperity.