J&K More Prosperous, Peaceful Than Ever Before: LG

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer)

• Says Surveillance Must Be Foolproof To Stop Drug Smuggling'

• 'Battlefield Tourism Will Create New Opportunities In Border Areas'

Srinagar- Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a new era of peace, prosperity and development, asserting that the Union Territory is moving forward“on all fronts” with renewed self-confidence among people.

The Lieutenant Governor made the remarks after inaugurating the 'Shaurya Gatha' Complex at SM Hill in Tangdhar area of Karnah in Kupwara district, a project aimed at promoting battlefield tourism, heritage preservation and border area development.

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“Jammu & Kashmir is moving forward with development on all fronts. There is a renewed sense of self-confidence, and the society is prosperous and peaceful than ever before,” Sinha said during the inaugural ceremony.

He said the 'Shaurya Gatha' Complex stands as a tribute to the courage and sacrifices of Indian soldiers who laid down their lives defending the country.

“The dedication of our forces and people is the true strength of the nation. The Shaurya Gatha Complex stands as a tribute to the valour and sacrifices of Indian soldiers,” he said.

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The Lieutenant Governor said the initiative would open new opportunities for border tourism, homestays, local crafts and youth entrepreneurship in the Tangdhar-Karnah region.

Highlighting what he described as the contrast between Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Sinha said while Jammu and Kashmir was witnessing development and prosperity, the areas under Pakistan's control continued to suffer from neglect and misgovernance.

“Jammu & Kashmir was, is and will always remain an integral part of India,” he said.

Sinha reiterated the administration's commitment towards the development of border areas and said initiatives such as battlefield tourism under the Bharat Rannbhoomi Darshan programme would help generate economic activity while showcasing the defence legacy and cultural heritage of the region.

He said seven villages in Tangdhar and Karnah had been included under the Vibrant Village Programme to improve infrastructure, livelihood opportunities and quality of life in remote border regions.

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The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted the significance of the proposed Sadhna Tunnel, saying it would improve all-weather connectivity and strengthen trade, education, healthcare and disaster response in the area.

“I urge citizens across the nation to visit Shaurya Gatha Complex and plan their holidays at the offbeat destinations of Kupwara,” he said.

Sinha also praised the Army for its contribution to the ongoing anti-drug campaign in Jammu and Kashmir.

Referring to Tangdhar as a strategically sensitive region, he said cross-border narco-smuggling attempts remained a serious concern and called for heightened vigilance by police and security agencies.

“Our surveillance must be foolproof to ensure that no illegal drugs enter our territory,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor also expressed gratitude to people, especially school students, for supporting the 'Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir' campaign.

'Sports Tournaments Transforming J&K'
At a separate event Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said sports activities in Jammu and Kashmir are playing a key role in youth empowerment and social transformation, asserting that every sporting event sends a strong message of youth participation in nation-building.

The LG made the remarks after inaugurating the South Kashmir Volleyball League-2026 at Shopian district in South Kashmir.

He also dedicated a Multipurpose Sports Indoor Hall at Arhama, constructed at a cost of Rs 4.94 crore, to the youth of the region.

Addressing the gathering, Sinha described the South Kashmir Volleyball League as a major platform for youth engagement and promotion of competitive sports culture in the Valley.

“Every serve and every spike on this volleyball court is a message that our youth are confronting challenges and moving forward as an integral part of the national mainstream,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He said the league, which began in 2021, has significantly contributed to strengthening volleyball activities across South Kashmir while supporting the 'Nasha Mukt J&K' campaign by encouraging youth participation in positive activities.

“South Kashmir Volleyball League is significantly contributing towards the campaign of 'Nasha Mukt J&K' by promoting sports as a positive avenue for youth participation and social transformation,” he said.

LG said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a strong foundation has been laid for youth to realise their sporting aspirations and showcase talent at national and international platforms.

He said the administration has been actively engaging youth in sports and national integration programmes across the Union Territory to channel their energy towards constructive and nation-building activities.

Highlighting the growth of sports infrastructure in Shopian, Sinha said nearly Rs 22 crore has been spent on sports facilities in the district over the last six years, while projects worth Rs 8.80 crore are currently under execution.

He said 20 Khelo India Centres are operational across South Kashmir, including five in Shopian district, where nearly 600 trainees are receiving sports training and equipment support.

Calling upon young athletes to become role models, the LG urged sportspersons to guide the younger generation towards a healthier and drug-free future.

The four-day South Kashmir Volleyball League is being organised by the Volleyball Association J&K in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council.

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