On Monday, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha declared that large portions of India have been liberated from terrorism. He noted that, apart from a few areas, much of the northeast now enjoys a peaceful state, and local recruitment into terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir has nearly reached zero.
Sinha made these remarks while addressing the Strategic Management Forum (SMF) Conference at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Jammu, where attendees discussed policies for achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047. He highlighted that the menace of left-wing extremism and Naxalism has dwindled significantly.
“Most of the northeast has become terrorism-free. Where there was previously a persistent threat of left-wing extremism, only a few districts remain affected,” Sinha stated, reflecting on the substantial progress in India’s internal security.
Focusing on Jammu and Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor shared positive news regarding the region’s security. “None of the top commanders of terrorist organisations currently operating in Jammu and Kashmir are alive,” he asserted.
He pointed out a marked decline in local recruitment into terrorist ranks. “Our figures show that hardly one or two youths join terrorist groups these days,” Sinha reported, emphasizing the effectiveness of ongoing security strategies.
However, he warned that external threats linger, with Pakistan persistently attempting to infiltrate terrorists into Indian territory. “Terrorists crossing the border find refuge in dense forests and mountainous regions, but I assure you, they will soon be eliminated,” he stated confidently.
Highlighting the evolving nature of terrorism, Sinha noted the involvement of educated individuals in these groups. He called for a more collaborative approach to combating terrorism, stating, “The solution must include society’s involvement and support from certain sections of the administration, alongside security forces.”
In the context of fostering a united effort against terrorism, Sinha urged the end of the divisive “insider-outsider” narrative. He argued that this mentality hampers developmental efforts across various regions. “Such thinking creates unnecessary barriers,” he emphasized.
Turning to India’s broader development efforts, Sinha elucidated a vision for achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047. “Policymakers and industry leaders play vital roles in steering through challenges in this rapidly evolving landscape,” he stated.
He stressed the importance of ensuring macroeconomic stability, boosting investments in education and healthcare, and fostering participatory governance. “India’s rapid growth story under Prime Minister Narendra Modi is remarkable,” Sinha remarked, acknowledging the renewed confidence among industrialists.
On the economic potential of Jammu and Kashmir, Sinha illuminated the significance of tapping underutilized resources. “J&K is rich in minerals like limestone, sapphire, and lithium. With the right strategic planning, we can generate an additional annual revenue between Rs 15,000 crore to Rs 20,000 crore over the next five to seven years,” he asserted.
He also advocated maximizing the region’s hydropower capabilities and suggested necessary amendments to the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) to adapt to changing economic demands.
During the event, he highlighted Jammu’s cultural heritage with the launch of the Basohli Painting Exhibition. He praised Basohli Painting, calling it a priceless artistic legacy for present and future generations. “The appreciation for our cultural heritage is essential in promoting social cohesion and economic development,” he affirmed.
The event gathered a notable assembly of dignitaries, including Prof B.S. Sahay, Director of IIM Jammu; R.K. Chaudhary, Chairman JERC J&K; Subash Chandra Meena, Economic Advisor, NITI Aayog; and various academicians, politicians, industry leaders, and artists.
