Lone Khalid CNI

Srinagar, July 8: Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, on Tuesday said that Jammu and Kashmir is progressing steadily despite repeated attempts by Pakistan to create unrest. He stated that the Centre is fully committed to bringing new development initiatives to the region, with the support of strong and capable security forces.

Speaking at an event held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar, LG Sinha said that the last 4-5 years have brought a major transformation to Jammu and Kashmir. He pointed out that after 2019, the region has seen positive changes that are now being recognised by people across the country.

One of the key achievements, according to the LG, is the boost in tourism. He said that by 2024, over 2.4 crore tourists had visited Jammu and Kashmir — a figure far higher than the numbers recorded before August 5, 2019. The administration has also revived old tourist destinations and introduced new ones such as adventure and border tourism. He said that technology is helping tourists connect easily with Jammu and Kashmir through digital platforms run by the Ministry of Tourism.

Sinha mentioned that hosting the G20 Tourism Working Group meetings in Kashmir was a proud moment for the region and helped project Jammu and Kashmir on the global stage.

He also highlighted the central government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and tourism facilities in the Union Territory. These steps, he said, are part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s larger vision to make Jammu and Kashmir a top destination.

LG Sinha praised the people of Jammu and Kashmir for their patience and resilience in the face of challenges, including repeated efforts by Pakistan to disturb peace. Referring to the public response after the Pahalgam terror attack, he said that widespread condemnation and peaceful protests reflected the people’s deep commitment to unity and harmony.

“Despite losing innocent lives in the past, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have stood strong. They are determined to move forward, and the bond between Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of India remains strong and unbreakable,” LG Sinha said.