Jammu, Jan 26 (KNO): Asserting that 'Naya Savera' (new dawn) has broken out in Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday reiterated the government's commitment to establish peace and make region prosperous.
Addressing the main Republic Day function in Jammu, LG Sinha, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) paid rich tributes to martyrs and victims of terrorism, natural calamities, and tragic incidents.
He said a “Naya Savera” (new dawn) has broken out in Jammu and Kashmir, with strong measures taken to eliminate terrorism and provide comprehensive support to families affected by terror-related violence.
He announced that all pending terrorism-related killing cases will be re-examined to ensure justice.
Saluting the courage and bravery of security forces, LG Sinha said, " Operation Sindoor sent a clear message to the world that terrorism will not be tolerated under any circumstances."
He praised the armed forces for eliminating Pakistani terrorists involved in the Pahalgam terror attack and paid homage to its victims, as well as those who lost their lives in the unfortunate Nowgam blast.
PAYS TRIBUTES TO FREEDOM FIGHTERS, MARTYRS
He said, “This is a day to remember with gratitude the countless freedom fighters whose dedication, struggle, and sacrifices paved the way for our independence and the birth of our Republic. This sacred festival reminds us of the enduring values enshrined in the Indian Constitution, which form the very foundation of our democracy. It is a moment to renew our collective commitment to the democratic ideals.”
He said, “Let us bow with deep respect before the freedom fighters and martyrs who laid down their lives so that the nation might live with honour and pride. I pay heartfelt tribute to the valiant soldiers of the Indian Army, the paramilitary forces, and the Jammu and Kashmir Police, whose unwavering commitment and supreme sacrifices stand guard over our unity, integrity, and security. Their indomitable courage and spirit of service ignite our collective resolve to build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous India.”
THANKS ARMED FORCES, POLICE, PARAMILITARY, CIVIL ADMINISTRATION FOR UPHOLDING NATION’S PRIDE
LG Sinha said, “I express my sincere gratitude to all members of the armed forces, police, paramilitary units, and civil administration who upheld the nation’s pride through their duty, dedication, and bravery during Operation Sindoor.”
He said, “Following the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Operation Sindoor emerged as a defining moment in India’s national security doctrine. India made it unequivocally clear that any terrorist attack on its soil would be treated as an act of war.”
LG Sinha said, “Operation Sindoor was not merely a military action; it was a declaration of India’s strategic resolve. We struck at the heart of the enemy, dismantled their terror infrastructure, exposed the hollowness of nuclear threats, and reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to protecting national sovereignty. Through this operation, India conveyed to the world that every act of terrorism and every attempt to support it will be met with a decisive response.”
INDIA HAS FIRMLY DRAWN A NEW RED LINE
LG Sinha said, “India has firmly drawn a new red line. The success of Operation Sindoor has instilled renewed confidence among citizens that our brave soldiers remain vigilant and fully committed to their protection. At the same time, it has sent a clear signal to the international community that India’s actions are rational, restrained, and rooted in its legitimate right to self-defence. Whether terrorist networks operate across the border or within it, they will be completely neutralized.”
OPERATION SINDOOR CONTINUES
LG Sinha said, “Operation Sindoor continues, with every hostile move being closely monitored. As part of non-kinetic measures, India has terminated the Indus Water Treaty, delivering a strong message that bloodshed and cooperation cannot coexist. India’s water resources will now be utilized for India’s development.”
COMMENDS SECURITY FORCES FOR ELIMINATING PAHALGAM ATTACK PERPETRATORS
He said, “I pay my heartfelt tributes to all civilians who lost their lives in the Pahalgam terrorist attack. I also commend the personnel of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, and the Indian Army who, through Operation Mahadev, eliminated the three Pakistani terrorists involved in the attack and delivered justice for the dignity of our mothers and sisters.”
LG Sinha said, “I further appreciate the Jammu and Kashmir Police for uncovering a nationwide terror network last November and preventing several attacks in time. They are India’s true heroes, and I am proud of them.”
“With deep respect and gratitude, I honour the martyrs of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, paramilitary forces, and the Army. The entire nation remains indebted to them and their families, and their sacrifices will never be forgotten. I also offer my heartfelt condolences to the police and civil administration personnel who lost their lives in the unfortunate accidental explosion in Nowgam. The debt owed to those who secured peace and progress in Jammu and Kashmir with their blood can never be repaid.”
“On this solemn occasion, we must pledge to remember their sacrifice and fulfil their dream of a peaceful, fearless, and developed Jammu & Kashmir,” he added.
NEW DAWN HAS ARRIVED
LG Sinha said, “New dawn has arrived in Jammu and Kashmir. Employment is being provided not to those associated with terrorism, but to families who have suffered because of it.”
He said, “Decades of suppressed pain and tears are finally receiving dignity and justice. I assure the people of Jammu and Kashmir that every case linked to terrorism will be thoroughly examined, fresh investigations will be conducted, and the guilty will face the strictest punishment.”
PAYS TRIBUTES TO VICTIMS OF NATURAL CALAMITIES
The Lieutenant Governor said, “I also pay tribute to the citizens who lost their lives in last year’s unfortunate natural disaster. Along with government assistance, corporate entitites and voluntary organizations from across the country extended support to ensure swift relief to affected families.”
He said, “Under the leadership of PM Modi the Government of India is fully committed to their complete rehabilitation.”
J&K ECONOMY SET TO REGISTER 11% GROWTH RATE
He said, “Jammu and Kashmir’s economy is estimated to register a growth rate of 11 percent at current prices, driven by sustained government initiatives and strategic policy interventions. The Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of the Union Territory is estimated at ₹2,62,458 crore for 2024–25, up from ₹2,36,059 crore in 2023–24. This positive trajectory underscores the effectiveness of ongoing economic development strategies, infrastructure expansion, and business-friendly policies.”
J&K RECORDS 1.61 CRORE TOURIST VISITS
“The tourism sector occupies a pivotal position in the economy of Jammu and Kashmir and was granted the status of an industry in 2020 to attract greater investment. Known as the Paradise on Earth, J&K recorded 1.61 crore tourist visits in 2025 (up to November). While this figure is lower than last year’s 2.36 crore visits, considering the adverse impact of the Pahalgam incident in April 2025 and subsequent floods, the sustained and focused efforts of the Government have yielded encouraging and resilient outcomes,” LG Sinha said.
“The Government is making sustained efforts to develop world-class tourist destinations, with financial support from the Ministry of Tourism and external funding agencies. With a vision to explore and unlock new tourism potential, nine new tourist destinations have been identified, and projects are being prepared to develop these sites in accordance with international standards,” he said.
KASHMIR MARATHON FLAGSHIP INITIATIVE
He said, “The Kashmir Marathon is being developed as a flagship initiative for sports tourism and destination branding, projecting Kashmir as a global hub for sports and wellness tourism. The participation of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah further reinforced confidence, unity, and projected Kashmir’s image as a safe, open, and welcoming destination. The maiden edition of the
Jammu Marathon has been formally launched and is scheduled for March 2026.”
150TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS OF VANDE MATARAM
He said, “The 150th anniversary of the national song Vande Mataram has grown beyond a mere celebration and transformed into a people’s movement, rekindling in every heart a renewed spirit of love, sacrifice, service, and devotion to the motherland. In the very first phase, achieving the top national distinction, we have created a new chapter in history. Places that once echoed with voices of division are today alive with the colours of the Tricolour, as homes proudly display the flag and citizens march together in Tiranga yatras. With unwavering commitment to the nation-building, every citizen is now actively engaged in strengthening the values enshrined in our Constitution.”
MISSION YUVA EMPOWERING YOUTH
He said, “Through Mission YUVA we are empowering the aspirations of our youth by providing skill development, comprehensive mentorship, and financial support to promote entrepreneurship. This flagship initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to harnessing the immense potential of young minds as a catalyst for economic growth, social stability, and nation-building in the Union Territory.”
LG Sinha said, “The Mission YUVA adopts a holistic approach, encompassing capacity building, credit enablement, career counselling, robust job matching portal, and market linkages through the ONDC buyer app. Under its capacity-building component, a hybrid entrepreneurship development course has been introduced, through which over 5,000 youth have successfully completed training, strengthening the foundation for sustainable self-employment and enterprise creation.”
He said, “The Mission YUVA aims to provide comprehensive career guidance, industry-relevant skilling, and effective job placement for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. Under the mission, 1.35 lakh entrepreneurial units are targeted to be created, and 4.5 lakh youth are envisaged to be provided employment. Within its very first year of implementation, over 1.51 lakh youth have registered on the platform. Of these, 61,941 youth have applied under various credit-linked schemes, and more than 12,000 cases have already been sanctioned by banks, involving loans exceeding ₹800 crore. This encouraging response reflects the growing entrepreneurial spirit of our youth and the Government’s commitment to creating sustainable livelihoods across Jammu and Kashmir.”
MERIT-BASED RECRUITMENT
LG Sinha said, “Merit-based recruitment has been ensured for 7,650 Government positions during 2025, while the recruitment process for an additional 23,800 posts is currently underway, reinforcing transparency and fairness in public employment.”
He said, “During 2025, 910 compassionate appointments have been provided, enabling families to lead dignified lives following the untimely loss of primary breadwinners. This includes 464 cases of Next of Kins (NoKs) of terror-affected families, including victims of the Kathua incident, Operation Sindoor, and the Nowgam incident, ensuring timely relief and employment support to families affected by violence and tragedy.”
KASHMIR CONNECTED WITH REST OF INDIA THROUGH TRAIN
He said, “Kashmir has now been connected with the rest of India through train services, fulfilling a long-cherished dream. A full fledged Railway Division for Jammu has also been sanctioned. Expansion and modernization of Jammu Tawi Railway Station and Jammu Airport are progressing steadily, significantly strengthening regional connectivity.”
“The first-ever Food Corporation of India (FCI) food-grain freight train connecting Kashmir with the national freight network has been operationalized, realizing another long-standing aspiration. Freight train movement will benefit citizens, businesses, and infrastructure projects by ensuring year-round logistics unaffected by adverse weather, reducing pressure on NH-44, and accelerating economic growth in Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.
ROAD NETWORK WITNESSED SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT
He said, “The road network has witnessed substantial improvement through the execution of various programmes and schemes. With an overall investment of ₹61,528 crore, construction and upgradation of one Expressway (Delhi–Amritsar–Katra), five National Highways, and two Ring Roads for Jammu and Srinagar cities are in progress. Three tunnels, including the Sonamarg Tunnel, have been completed, while eight tunnels, including the Zojila Tunnel, are at advanced stages of completion. These initiatives have significantly enhanced connectivity and reduced travel time, particularly on the Srinagar–Jammu corridor. The Narbal–Shopian–Surankote road with a spur to Magam–Gulmarg (196.50 km), has recently been declared a National Highway.”
He said, “To further strengthen connectivity, the Government of India has sanctioned 19 new National Highway projects during 2025–26, at an estimated cost of ₹10,637 crore. These include key projects such as the Pir Ki Gali Tunnel, Sadhna Tunnel, four-lane flyover from Lal Chowk to Parimpora Junction, and the four-lane Magam Flyover on the Narbal–Gulmarg section.”
Thanks GoI for connecting left-out habitations under PMGSY
LG Sinha said, “On this occasion, I express my gratitude to the Government of India for resolving the long-pending issue of connecting left-out habitations under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). With the launch of PMGSYIV, 2,400 unconnected rural habitations in Jammu and Kashmir will now be connected. In Phase-I, 316 projects, with an estimated cost of ₹4,224 crore, have been sanctioned for construction and up-gradation of 1,781 km of road length. Given the strategic and geographical importance of Jammu and Kashmir, this initiative will provide vital connectivity to thousands of families.”
He said, “To address connectivity needs in strategic and farflung areas, 152 road projects, covering 1,148 km at a cost exceeding ₹2,600 crore, have been submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, for approval.
POWER SECTOR BECOMING STRONG
He said, “Our focused efforts in the power sector are yielding unprecedented results. Four major hydropower projects—Pakal Dul, Ratle, Kiru, and Kwar with a combined capacity of 3,014 MW, are under rapid execution. The long-stalled 1,856
MW Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project has also been revived after years of stagnation. Over the past five years, a record 5,708 MVA has been added to the distribution sector and 4,239 MVA to the transmission sector. Installation of smart prepaid meters is underway in mission mode, with 10.44 lakh meters already installed, and 100% coverage targeted by 2026–27. As a result, losses have been reduced by 9%, while revenue has increased by 16%.”
He said, “The PM Surya Ghar – Muft Bijli Yojana is being implemented across the Union Territory with the objective of solarising households and government buildings. Till date, 6,716 government buildings have been solarised, creating a cumulative installed capacity of 64.61 MW, while 16,816 rooftop solar systems have been installed in individual households. This initiative has resulted in a substantial reduction in recurring electricity expenditure, enhanced reliability of power supply, and reduced dependence on conventional energy sources. I urge all citizens to actively support the administration in the solarisation of households and in minimising their electricity expenses.”
15.62 LAKH RURAL HOUSEHOLDS PROVIDED WATER CONNECTIONS
“In fulfilment of the commitment to provide clean tap water to every household, under the Jal Jeevan Mission, more than 15.62 lakh rural households (81 percent) have been successfully provided with piped water connections. Additionally, Har Ghar Jal (HGJ) certification has been achieved in 867 villages, marking significant progress towards universal water coverage,” he added.
SHAHPUR KANDI DAM PROJECT HAS MADE SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS
“The Shahpur Kandi Dam Project has made significant progress. Since 22nd September 2025, regulated gravity flow of water has commenced, with the canal presently conveying approximately 150 cusecs. Trial operations of the project are ongoing, along with the implementation of necessary mitigation measures,” he added.
AGRICULTURE, ALLIED SECTORS HAVE UNDERGONE SIGNIFICANT STRUCTURAL TRANSFORMATION
LG Sinha said, “Over the past few years, the agriculture and allied sectors have undergone a significant structural transformation, driven by targeted policy interventions under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and allied initiatives. The focus has shifted from subsistence-oriented practices to a diversified, market-linked, and income-centric agricultural economy, resulting in measurable gains across crops, livestock, horticulture, and allied activities.”
He said, “Crop diversification has gained strong momentum across the Union Territory. The cultivated area has expanded by 6.22 percent, increasing from 12.71 lakh hectares to 13.50 lakh hectares. Simultaneously, a major thrust on strengthening the seed ecosystem has led to an improvement in the Seed Replacement Rate (SRR) from 12 percent to 22 percent, enhancing productivity and crop resilience.”
YELLOW REVOLUTION NEW SOURCE OF INCOME
He said, “The Yellow Revolution has emerged as a significant new source of income for farmers in Kashmir. Under this initiative, the area under 15 oilseeds has expanded substantially from 1.4 lakh hectares to 2.1 lakh hectares, resulting in a doubling of oilseed production. Honey production has also witnessed remarkable growth, increasing from 2,200 MT to over 3,895 MT over the last three years, positioning Jammu & Kashmir among the leading honey-producing regions in the country.”
PRADHAN MANTRI FASAL BIMA YOJANA IMPLEMENTED
LG Sinha said, “The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana has been implemented across all 20 districts, with 2.01 lakh farmers registered during Kharif 2025, ensuring effective crop risk mitigation. The process of extending coverage to horticulture crops has also been initiated. For Rabi 2025–26, the Government plans to cover approximately 40,000 hectares, supported by extensive awareness and enrolment drives to ensure continuity of risk coverage against climatic and other uncertainties.”
KISSAN KHIDMAT GHARS EMPOWERING FARMERS
He said, “The Kissan Khidmat Ghars (KKGs) are empowering farmers by enhancing productivity and laying a strong foundation for sustainable agricultural growth. More than 7 lakh farmers are now part of this ecosystem, benefiting from access to government services, welfare schemes, and expert advisories.
CONTROLLED ATMOSPHERE STORAGE CAPACITY ENHANCED
LG Sinha said, “Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage capacity has been enhanced to 2.92 lakh MT, supported by substantial investment, with an additional 15,000 MT of capacity being added during the current year, taking the total to 3.07 lakh MT. To ensure remunerative prices for farm produce, 17 mandis have been integrated with the e-NAM platform, strengthening market access and price discovery. A total of 55,355 farmers, traders, FPOs, and other stakeholders have been registered. Trade worth ₹1,680.34 crore, involving 28.26 lakh quintals of agriculture and horticulture produce, has been conducted through e-NAM to date.”
GI TAGS SECURED FOR 7 AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS
He said, “In order to preserve and promote the region’s rich agricultural heritage, GI tags have been secured for seven agricultural products—Kashmir Saffron, Jammu Basmati, Bhaderwah Rajma, Sulai Honey (Ramban), Kalari (Ramnagar), Anardana (Ramban), and Mushkbudji rice, while 20 additional products are at various stages of approval. Further strengthening conservation efforts, SKUAST, Jammu has established a stateof-the-art Ex-Situ Gene Bank, becoming the third institution in India with such a facility, dedicated to conserve valuable genetic resources such as seeds and plant tissues.”
DAIRY AND LIVESTOCK SECTOR RECORDED ROBUST, SUSTAINED GROWTH
LG Sinha said, “The dairy and livestock sector in Jammu & Kashmir has recorded robust and sustained growth. Annual milk production has reached 28.75 lakh metric tonnes, driven by systematic breed improvement, expanded artificial insemination coverage, and improved animal management practices. Mutton production increased from 318.64 lakh kilograms in 2020–21 to 376.06 lakh kilograms in 2024–25, reflecting a growth of nearly 18 percent over five years. Wool production also rose from 68.45 lakh kilograms to 79.90 lakh kilograms during the same period, registering growth of over 16 percent.”
PRIMARY AGRICULTURAL CREDIT SOCIETIES LINKED
He said, “With the objective of digitally linking Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) with District Central Cooperative Banks, and to enhance transparency in agricultural credit delivery, 537 PACS have been successfully onboarded onto a digital platform. This marks a major transition from manual record-keeping to efficient and seamless digital operations.”
INDUSTRIAL TRANSFORMATION UNDERWAY
He said, “An industrial transformation is underway in Jammu & Kashmir. Since 2020, 2,227 industrial units in the organised sector, involving an investment of ₹15,940 crore and generating employment for 73,827 persons, have commenced production. Additionally, 1,028 units with a proposed investment of ₹27,613 crore have initiated groundwork, of which 396 units, with an investment of ₹9,949 crore, are expected to commence production by March 2026. Claims worth ₹805 crore have been approved under the New Central Sector Scheme. Further, 1,316 J&K-based startups have been registered on the DPIIT (Startup India) portal, including 471 women-led startups, reflecting growing entrepreneurial momentum and national recognition.”
6,050 SELF-EMPLOYMENT ENTERPRISES ESTABLISHED IN 2025-26
He said, “During 2025–26, a total of 6,050 self-employment enterprises has been established, with margin money assistance of ₹125.24 crore disbursed up to November 2025, thereby significantly strengthening livelihood opportunities.”
He said, “To provide a distinct global identity to the handicraft products of Jammu & Kashmir, GI tagging has been approved for 18 crafts, while the registration process for 17 additional products is underway. Simultaneously, sustained efforts to reduce compliance burdens for businesses and citizens have yielded positive outcomes, with Jammu & Kashmir securing the 5th rank among all States and UTs under the Business Reform Action Plan (BRAP).”
ARTISANS, WEAVERS BEING ACTIVELY ENCOURAGED
LG Sinha said, “Artisans and weavers are being actively encouraged to leverage the Weavers Mudra Scheme to strengthen livelihoods and preserve the cultural heritage of the region. Over the past two years, more than 1,600 cooperatives have benefited under the Financial Support for Artisan and Weaver Cooperatives Scheme, reinforcing institutional support for traditional crafts.” Je said, “The Handloom and Handicrafts sector provides direct and indirect employment to nearly 4.45 lakh individuals, primarily from economically weaker sections. About 7,000 cooperative societies have been registered in Jammu & Kashmir. During 2025–26, 188 cooperatives have availed financial assistance amounting to ₹0.70 crore.”
He said, “Under the MUDRA Scheme, credit of ₹1.32 crore has been disbursed to 91 weavers up to November, 2025.”
4 J&K ARTISANS RECEIVED NATIONAL HONOURS
LG Sinha said, “Four artisans from Jammu & Kashmir received National Honours, including the Shilp Guru Award and National Awards for Handicrafts, instituted by the Ministry of Textiles, Government 20 of India. The awards were conferred on 9th of December, 2025 at New Delhi in the august presence of the Hon’ble President of India. Among these, two artisans received National Awards—one for mastery in Sozni embroidery and another for outstanding contribution to handmade carpets.”
PATH-BREAKING REFORMS UNDERTAKEN IN EDUCATION SECTOR
LG Sinha said, “Path-breaking reforms have been undertaken in the education sector to ensure effective, efficient, and comprehensive implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP). These collective efforts are expected to lay a strong foundation for a knowledge-driven economy. The younger generation is being equipped with next-generation skills through initiatives such as College on Wheels, entrepreneurship programmes, promotion of startup culture, and engineering kitchens.”
He said, “More than 15,550 schools have introduced pre-primary education. To inculcate scientific temper and skill orientation, 1.41 lakh students from Classes IX to XII have been enrolled in vocational courses. Under the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) Yojana, approval has been accorded for the upgradation of 21 schools in the first phase. The Vidya Samiksha Kendra (VSK) has been established and made operational to enable data-driven decision making and improve learning outcomes. The Government is also planning to launch JK ePathshala, a dedicated TV channel to broadcast free, curriculum-based educational content in local languages, accessible to students across the UT.”—(KNO)