Samba, June 15, 2025: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha laid the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art auditorium and upgradation work at Government Higher Secondary School in Gurha Slathia, Samba, marking a significant step toward enhancing educational infrastructure and fostering inclusive development in the region. The projects are funded through charity, following demands raised by local representatives and youth during the Lieutenant Governor’s visit to Gurha Slathia in February 2025.
Key Highlights of the Initiative
- Auditorium and School Upgradation: The new 500-seat auditorium and technological advancements for the Government Higher Secondary School aim to provide modern facilities for students and the community. The projects, fully financed through charitable contributions, address the aspirations of the local youth.
- Sports Facility Announcement: Lieutenant Governor Sinha also announced a new sports facility for Gurha Slathia, to be funded through charity, further promoting holistic development.
- Commitment to Education: Emphasizing the transformative power of education, Sinha stated, “Education shapes a region’s destiny and drives inclusive development and stability.” He highlighted the need for robust educational infrastructure to fuel economic growth and entrepreneurial ventures.
- NEP 2020 Implementation: The Lieutenant Governor underscored the revolutionary changes in Jammu and Kashmir’s education sector, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, ensuring equitable access to quality education in rural areas and reintegrating thousands of out-of-school students into classrooms.
Fulfilling a Promise
During his February 2025 visit, local youth requested a large-capacity auditorium. Initially, Sinha proposed a 50-50 funding split with the local MLA but faced budget constraints. “I realized it would require a huge amount of money, and I wasn’t sure if it would be approved in the budget session. So, I sought help from revered Babaji, who assured me it would be done,” Sinha said. He expressed gratitude for the swift progress, aiming for project completion within a year.
Transforming Border Areas
Sinha highlighted the significant infrastructure upgrades in Samba’s border areas over the past five years, stating, “Strong border areas protect the country’s core and act as a first line of defense.” Fast-paced industrialization has spurred economic growth and integrated the local population into the national mainstream, fostering inclusive development.
Vision for a Prosperous Jammu and Kashmir
The Lieutenant Governor called for collective efforts to maintain the pace of development. “Let us together build a self-reliant, powerful, and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir and fulfill the dreams of Samba,” he urged stakeholders. He commended the dedication of MLA Surjit Singh Slathia, the district administration, and the youth for driving transformative change.
Global Inspiration for Development
Citing global examples, Sinha noted that regions have transformed from resource-scarce to economic powerhouses through massive investments in education and skill development. He encouraged the youth to leverage new education and skilling initiatives to position Jammu and Kashmir as a hub of innovation and equity.
Event Details
The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including MLA Surjit Singh Slathia, Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar, Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma, and a large gathering of citizens and youth. The event underscored the community’s commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive future for Samba.
