Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh has said that the abrogation of Article 370 has brought about a significant transformation in the mindset of people in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly among the youth, leading to an unprecedented rise in aspirations and achievements.
In an interaction, Dr. Singh said that young people from even the smallest towns and remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir are now excelling in academics and competitive examinations, reflecting a new sense of confidence and opportunity.
“One of the most significant changes is in the mindset of the people. Today, children from small towns are topping examinations and performing exceptionally well in competitive tests. An aspirational surge has taken place among the youth,” he said.
The Minister observed that the removal of Article 370 strengthened the feeling of belongingness among the people of Jammu and Kashmir by integrating them fully with the rest of the country.
“Earlier, many people felt isolated and different. Today, they see themselves as equal citizens with equal opportunities and equal rights. This psychological transformation has played a crucial role in shaping the aspirations of the younger generation,” he remarked.
Highlighting social reforms that followed the constitutional changes of August 2019, Dr. Singh noted that several categories of citizens who were previously deprived of certain rights have now been brought into the mainstream.
The Union Minister said the changes have created an environment where talent and hard work are emerging as the key drivers of success, encouraging young people to pursue higher education, professional careers, entrepreneurship and public service.
PM Modi Capable of Resolving PoJK Issue: Jitendra Singh
Speaking on the issue of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), Dr. Singh reiterated the Government of India’s long-standing position that the region is an integral part of the country.
He referred to the unanimous Parliamentary Resolution adopted in 1994, which declared the entire territories of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh as integral parts of India. He noted that the Bharatiya Janata Party had strongly supported the resolution.
“There is no issue between India and Pakistan except the issue of PoJK and its eventual reintegration with the Indian Republic,” he said.
Dr. Singh further asserted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi possesses the leadership, conviction and determination required to address the outstanding issue of PoJK.
“If anyone has the courage, capacity and commitment to resolve the issue of PoJK, it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” he stated.
The Minister also alleged that the people living in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir have long faced discrimination and have been treated as second-class citizens by the Pakistani establishment.
A New Era of Confidence
Dr. Singh emphasized that the developments witnessed in Jammu and Kashmir over the past few years reflect a broader transformation in governance, opportunities and public participation. He said the emergence of young achievers from remote areas, coupled with growing educational and professional aspirations, demonstrates the positive impact of greater integration and expanded opportunities in the Union Territory.
According to the Minister, Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a new era marked by confidence, ambition and increasing participation of its youth in nation-building and competitive fields across the country.
