Srinagar, July 16: The Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Wednesday said that peace, progress, prosperity and people first is the main focus and policy of the government. He said confronting terrorism directly, bolstering tourism, supporting victims, and building infrastructure has been the hallmark of the government efforts towards making a prosperous Jammu and Kashmir.
In a wide-ranging interview, Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha spoke candidly about the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, the government’s response under “Operation Sindoor,” tourism revival, and a clarion call for development and unity.
Zero tolerance, decisive action
Recalling the April 22 tragedy in Baisaran, which claimed 26 lives, Manoj Sinha adopted a resolute tone: “We have a zero‑tolerance policy toward terrorism in J&K.” He emphasized that Operation Sindoor targeted terror camps and leadership sending a strong message that the region would not be held hostage by fear. Security has been strictly reinforced at all tourist hotspots, he added, affirming that “this is the first time in decades… the people of Kashmir have stood up united against Pakistan‑sponsored terrorism.”
Tourism: resilience and recovery
Amid the shadow cast by the Baisaran attack, Sinha highlighted an astounding resurgence. Despite initial fears, the Amarnath Yatra recorded record numbers this year. He credited resilient local tourism operators and strengthened security, underscoring that economic continuity was vital to both livelihoods and regional morale.
Cultural identity and infrastructure
On changes post-2019, Sinha reiterated that Jammu & Kashmir remains rooted in its cultural essence, even as it embraces modern infrastructure projects. He spoke at length about large‑scale developments including riverfronts, higher educational institutions like IITs, IIMs, AIIMS, and new medical colleges emphasizing planned growth rather than cultural dilution.
Statehood and strengthening of democracy
When asked about the restoration of statehood and the balance of power between the Raj Bhavan and local elected representatives, Sinha reassured that statehood would return at the appropriate time. He said J&K witnessed record voter turnout in Lok Sabha polls and recent Assembly elections. He said that governance has shifted from conflict driven politics to mainstream democratic engagement.
Support for terror victims
Perhaps most poignant was Sinha’s pledge to terror-hit families in J&K. He said government will provide every possible help and assistance in terms of prompt compensation, secure government jobs, and entrepreneurial training to the victims and affirmed that their grief would be met with tangible support, not rhetoric.
