J&K Advancing Towards Peace and Prosperity: L-G Manoj Sinha

Fast Summary

• Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha highlighted rapid progress in peace and prosperity under PM Narendra Modi’s leadership sence the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
• The region’s economy has more than doubled over the past five years, with increased railway connectivity and tourism. Over 5,000 new hotels were constructed in Kashmir valley alone.
• Key development indicators include J&K Bank recording a ₹1,700-crore profit after a previous loss of ₹1,300 crore. New startups and premier educational institutions are emerging in the Union Territory.
• Assembly elections were conducted without disputes; Panchayati Raj was successfully implemented across J&K.
• incidents of youth radicalization by terror outfits dropped considerably – from an average of 150 annually before Article 370 abrogation to just six last year and one this year. No stone pelting cases have been reported recently.
• Despite ongoing threats like the Pahalgam terror attack allegedly orchestrated by Pakistan, local protests demonstrated resistance against communal unrest. Operation Sindoor showcased India’s defence response capabilities using indigenous systems.

Indian Opinion Analysis

Jammu and Kashmir’s developmental conversion post the abrogation of Article 370 signals meaningful progress for India both economically and politically. The surge in infrastructure projects, startup growth, hotel construction to support tourism influxes, profit reversal for J&K Bank, alongside enhanced rail connectivity point to tangible improvements as reforms began.

The data suggesting reduced youth radicalization is promising as it may indicate increasing integration and pro-development sentiments among locals who have historically endured conflict-laden conditions. Successful elections further bolster democratic governance within J&K.

However, concerns regarding terrorism persist as highlighted by assertions about cross-border involvement from Pakistan. Strengthened military responses combined with international collaboration on counterterrorism may remain key for protecting these positive achievements.

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