SRINAGAR: Jammu Kashmir has witnessed unprecedented economic growth and infrastructure development since 2019, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Friday.
Speaking at the valedictory function of the first phase of celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of the national song Vande Mataram at MA Stadium, Jammu, Sinha noted that more than 20,000 students and citizens participated in the mass singing event. He announced that Jammu Kashmir secured first place nationally for overall participation in the week-long celebrations, reflecting a surge in national pride across the UT.
“The going has never been as good for Jammu Kashmir in the past as it has been since 2019,” the Lieutenant Governor said. “Our effort for industrialisation is showing impressive growth. We have taken bold decisions to take Jammu Kashmir into a brighter future, ensuring far greater prosperity for our people.”
Sinha paid tribute to Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, emphasising his role in India’s freedom struggle and the enduring inspiration of Vande Mataram in uniting citizens. He urged all sections of society to uphold the ideals of Chattopadhyay and contribute to nation-building, stressing courage, wisdom, and collective responsibility.
Addressing security concerns, Sinha warned that elements attempting to radicalise youth remain active and must be isolated. “We must root out such elements from society and deny them vital support systems. Collective action of society will prove to be the last nail in the coffin of terrorism,” he said.
The valedictory event saw the participation of MPs Gulam Ali Khatana and Sat Sharma, District Development Council Chairman Bharat Bhushan, legislators, senior officials, and thousands of students and citizens.
The second phase of the 150th-year celebrations is scheduled to begin on January 9, 2026.
