Srinagar, Jan 26: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary on Monday said Jammu and Kashmir was marching towards peace and development.
Addressing the main function of the 77th Republic Day at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, where he unfurled the tricolour and took the ceremonial salute, the Deputy CM paid rich tributes to J&K Police, Army, and other security forces, saying their sacrifices had ensured peace and development, allowing citizens to live without fear.
He expressed hope that J&Kís statehood would be restored in the near future, reaffirming the commitment made by the Prime Minister.
Chaudhary said he was optimistic that J&K would regain its former status, as envisioned by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah.
Speaking on J&Kís development journey, he said, ìSheikh Muhammad Abdullah laid a strong foundation for unity, brotherhood and progress in the region. Former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah carried forward this legacy, and under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, J&K has reached new heights of development.î
The Deputy CM said that the morale of the countryís armed forces remains high despite evolving challenges, asserting that their role had expanded beyond security to include combating the growing drug menace and safeguarding the future of the youth.
He said the responsibility of the forces had increased in recent years, particularly in protecting young people from the dangers of drug addiction.
Referring to Pakistan, Choudhary said the neighbouring country had inflicted ìimmense sufferingî on Jammu and Kashmir and had repeatedly attempted to destabilise the region and undermine its tourism sector.
ìPakistan tried to damage Kashmir and its tourism. Our people and armed forces will never allow these attempts to succeed,î he said, asserting that such designs had failed in the face of public resilience and security preparedness.
The Deputy CM recalled the difficult phases J&K had endured due to decades of conflict, but said J&K had now moved decisively on the path of peace and development.
Highlighting the prevailing peaceful situation, he extended an open invitation to tourists from across the country and abroad.
ìThe valleys of Kashmir are ready to welcome tourists. Visitors will find a home-like environment here,î Choudhary said. Underlining the historical significance of January 26, he said that the Constitution of India came into force on this day in 1950, declaring India a sovereign, socialist, secular and democratic republic.
The Deputy CM also referred to the freedom struggle and the 1930 resolution for complete independence, saying Republic Day symbolises the aspirations, sacrifices, and unity of the nation.
Stressing the role of youth in nation-building, he expressed concern over the growing incidence of drug addiction among sections of young people.
Choudhary said the government was addressing the issue through a multi-pronged approach, including awareness, rehabilitation, and employment-oriented initiatives.
He cited flagship programmes like Mission Youth, digital empowerment platforms, skill development courses, and entrepreneurship support systems, including online learning tools and e-courses.
The Deputy CM said that the government aims to transform J&K into a major skill hub of north India by 2030.
On the economic front, he said efforts were underway to strengthen industrial development, with new industrial estates and factories being established in several districts.
Choudhary said that the government was working on a local employment policy to ensure greater job opportunities for the youth of the region.
Highlighting progress in the healthcare sector, he said medical infrastructure was being expanded with the establishment of new hospitals, medical colleges and specialised facilities across J&K.
The Deputy CM also spoke about initiatives in the education sector, including schemes to improve access to schooling in remote areas and to encourage girlsí education.
ìDevelopment, peace and youth participation will remain the core priorities of the government,î he said.
Choudhary said the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah-led government was focusing on digital governance to enhance transparency and efficiency across departments.
He said that several bridges, which had remained incomplete for decades, had now been completed, significantly improving road connectivity.
Referring to financial constraints following the transition from statehood to Union Territory status, the Deputy CM said he hoped the Centre would provide additional funds, keeping in view Jammu and Kashmirís unique geographical and developmental needs.
He also underscored the importance of traditional crafts such as Basoli paintings, Kani shawls and other handicrafts, describing them as vital for the local economy as well as cultural preservation.
Choudhary said that steps were also being taken to provide clean drinking water through specialised machinery and that a new waste management plant would be set up in south Kashmir to improve rural sanitation.
Expressing optimism about the forthcoming budget, he said it would prioritise public welfare and reaffirmed the governmentís commitment to women’s empowerment.
Former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, several legislators, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, IGP Kashmir, Administrative Secretaries, and Deputy Commissioner Srinagar were also present on the occasion. Earlier, the Deputy CM also paid floral tributes at Balidan Stambh.
