LG Sinha Calls for Unity and Brotherhood in Jammu & Kashmir’s 78th Independence Day Address
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today addressed the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the occasion of India’s 78th Independence Day, highlighting the significant strides made by the Union Territory in recent years across various sectors.
In his speech at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium, LG Sinha paid homage to the freedom fighters and martyrs who sacrificed for the nation’s independence. He emphasized the importance of upholding the values of justice, equality, and patriotism that guided India’s freedom struggle.
Economic Growth and Development
LG Sinha reported substantial economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir, with the GDP doubling from Rs. 1.17 lakh crore in 2017 to Rs. 2.45 lakh crore in 2023-24. He projected further growth to Rs. 2.63 lakh crore in 2024-25. The J&K Bank has also shown a remarkable turnaround, reporting a profit of Rs. 1,700 crore in 2023-24 compared to a loss of Rs. 1,139 crore in 2019-20.
Industrial Development and Investment
The UT has received 6,934 investment proposals worth ₹1.26 lakh crores, with a potential to generate 4.74 lakh jobs. Industrial units with an investment of Rs 6,600 crore have already started production. LG Sinha assured that the New Industrial Scheme, set to end in September, would be extended for at least another year.
Agriculture and Allied Sectors
Through initiatives like the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP) and J&K Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture & Allied Sectors (JKCIP), with a combined budget of ₹6,813 crore, the administration aims to revolutionize agriculture over the next 5 years. These programs are expected to benefit 13 lakh farmer families and create 2.87 lakh jobs.
Infrastructure Development
Significant progress has been made in road connectivity, with 17,839 kilometers of road constructed under PMGSY-I and II. Thirty-five projects have been completed under PMDP, and work on projects worth ₹1.5 lakh crore is underway. The LG also mentioned the ongoing construction of two AIIMS, two State Cancer Institutes, and two Bone and Joint Hospitals.
Power Sector Reforms
The power sector has seen considerable improvements, with a 42% increase in transmission capacity and a 30% increase in distribution capacity compared to 2019. Several hydroelectric projects are under construction or at advanced stages of planning, which will significantly boost the region’s power generation capacity.
Education and Skill Development
LG Sinha highlighted the implementation of the National Education Policy and initiatives like “Design Your Degree” and “College on Wheels.” He reported that 46,000 out-of-school children have been brought back to schools. The administration is also focusing on bridging the digital infrastructure gap in education.
Tourism Boom
The tourism sector has witnessed unprecedented growth, with over 2.11 crore tourist visits recorded in 2023. This year, up to June 30, 2024, 10,869,535 tourist visits have been recorded. The new Jammu and Kashmir Film Policy 2024 is expected to boost the local film industry and attract national and international filmmakers.
Healthcare Advancements
The implementation of Universal Health Insurance Coverage, AB-PMJAY SEHAT, has revolutionized healthcare in the region. So far, 85.50 lakh golden cards have been issued, and 251 hospitals have been empanelled, providing treatments worth Rs. 2,334 crores.
Empowerment of Marginalized Communities
LG Sinha emphasized the administration’s commitment to uplift marginalized communities. He mentioned the provision of reservation to OBCs, inclusion of several communities in the Scheduled Tribes category, and various initiatives for the education and empowerment of tribal students.
Sports and Youth Development
World-class sports infrastructure has been developed, including multi-purpose indoor sports halls in all districts and 92 small Khelo India centers. Last year, 8 million children and youth were provided opportunities in various sports disciplines, a significant increase from 2-3 lakh before 2019. In conclusion, LG Sinha called upon the citizens to work together towards building a strong and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir. He urged everyone to uphold the ideals of unity and brotherhood, pledging to make the region a beacon of hope and progress. As Jammu and Kashmir celebrates its 78th Independence Day, the Lieutenant Governor’s address painted a picture of a region on the cusp of transformative change, with significant progress across multiple sectors and a renewed focus on inclusive growth and development.
