J&K a UT is a reality: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Oct 31: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Thursday said that Jammu and Kashmir being a Union Territory is a reality and that the legislators had taken an oath and affirmed their faith and allegiance to the constitution.

Addressing the J&K UT Foundation Day celebrations in Srinagar, “It is a reality that J&K is a UT today and members have taken an oath and affirmed their true faith and allegiance to the constitution. When it becomes a state, we will celebrate statehood day. The Prime Minister and Home Minister have assured that statehood will be given at an appropriate time.”

The LG congratulated and extended his felicitations to the people of J&K on the occasion.

He thanked every section of the society, Police, security forces, administrative apparatus, and all stakeholders for their contribution to J&K’s progress and for working tirelessly for a secure and prosperous Union Territory.

Sharing J&K’s exceptional journey towards peace, progress and prosperity, the LG said the achievements of the past 5 years of transformation was a report card of the commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the people of J&K.

“I am happy today J&K stands proudly on the national stage – tall, self-reliant, and full of self-confidence. A strong foundation has been laid for speedy development in all the sectors. Under the leadership of the PM, we have fulfilled the aspirations of the people,” he said.

The LG highlighted the progressive policies and reforms and the unprecedented growth registered across the sectors in J&K.

“Our economic fundamentals are strong. Peace, stability, rule of law and time-tested democratic values make J&K UT an attractive investment destination. The confidence of investors in Jammu Kashmir is reflected in the highest ever inflows of investment in the past 4 years,” he said.

The LG reiterated his commitment to the extension of the new industrial development scheme in J&K.

Speaking on the achievements registered in the banking sector, he said that the J&K Bank was one of the greatest turnaround success stories of the UT.

“In 2019-20, the bank has reported a loss of Rs 1139 crore. It reported a profit of Rs 1700 crore in the year 2023-24. In the current FY, J&K Bank clocked Rs 991 crore in profit,” the LG said.

On the occasion, he called upon the people to remain united and identify and isolate anti-national elements, and those disrupting the peace.

The LG also spoke on the important role and contribution of Panchayati Raj Institutions, ULBs, and elected representatives in J&K’s development.

He expressed hope that the Panchayati Raj elections would be held soon in J&K.

“My dream is to see that every family is prosperous. My dream is to see Faster development of the infrastructure, industries and fruits of growth reach the last person in the queue,” the LG said.

On the occasion, beneficiaries under different government schemes shared their success stories.

The event also featured impressive performances by the artists celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Jammu Kashmir.

Member of Parliament Ghulam Ali Khatana, Election Commissioner J&K B R Sharma, and Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo were also present on the occasion.