In the picturesque yet historically turbulent region of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), a remarkable transformation is unfolding. Under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, the youth of Kashmir are experiencing a renaissance of opportunities, hope, and empowerment. His administration’s focus on peace, tourism, and holistic development has steered young Kashmiris away from the destructive cycles of violence, bandh calls, and stone pelting, toward a future brimming with potential. Central to this transformation are initiatives like the Mission Youth scheme, a vibrant sports ecosystem, and the revitalisation of regular academic activities in colleges. These efforts have not only restored stability but also fostered an environment where the youth can thrive as ambassadors of progress and peace. This article explores how these initiatives are reshaping the lives of Kashmir’s youth, empowering them to become architects of a prosperous “Naya Jammu and Kashmir.”
The Context: A Shift from Conflict to Opportunity
For decades, the youth of Kashmir were caught in a vicious cycle of unrest, with frequent bandh calls, stone pelting, and militancy disrupting their lives. Prior to August 5, 2019, when the Indian government revoked Article 370, integrating J&K fully into the Union of India, many young people in the Valley felt directionless, often exploited by divisive narratives and external influences. The abrogation of Article 370 marked a turning point, and under LG Manoj Sinha’s leadership, the region has witnessed a paradigm shift. The absence of bandh calls and stone pelting in recent years reflects a newfound stability, enabling the government to channel its energies into constructive initiatives for the youth.
LG Sinha’s vision for Kashmir is rooted in empowering its predominantly young population—69% of J&K’s population is under 35 years old. His administration has prioritized creating opportunities that align with the aspirations of the youth, fostering an environment where they can pursue education, entrepreneurship, sports, and civic engagement without fear of disruption. The Mission Youth scheme, a robust sports ecosystem, and the normalization of academic life in colleges are pillars of this transformative agenda.
Mission Youth: Empowering Dreams and Aspirations
Launched by the J&K government, Mission Youth is a pioneering initiative designed to harness the potential of the region’s young population. Aimed at individuals aged 15–25, the scheme provides a vibrant platform for skill development, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement, enabling youth to become ambassadors of peace, prosperity, and socio-economic growth. Mission Youth is not just a program; it is a movement to empower young Kashmiris to shape their futures and contribute to the region’s development.
Key Components of Mission Youth
- Mumkin Scheme: Fostering Entrepreneurship
The Mumkin scheme is a flagship program under Mission Youth that facilitates unemployed youth in procuring small commercial vehicles at subsidized rates to establish sustainable livelihoods in the transport sector. Mission Youth contributes ₹0.80 lakh or 10% of the vehicle’s on-road price (whichever is lower), with an equivalent contribution from vehicle manufacturers. The scheme’s transparent, digital implementation via the JK-e Services portal ensures accessibility and efficiency. By enabling young people to start their own transport businesses, Mumkin has empowered thousands to achieve financial independence and dignity. - Youth Clubs: Building Social Capital
Mission Youth has established over 4,522 Youth Clubs across J&K’s 20 districts, engaging 74,000 young people. These clubs serve as hubs for collaboration, skill-building, and community service, fostering leadership and social responsibility. Volunteers receive grants for activities and experience certificates, with top-performing groups awarded cash prizes ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹5,00,000 on International Volunteer Day. These clubs have been instrumental in shifting the narrative, encouraging youth to focus on constructive activities rather than destructive ones like stone pelting. For instance, in Poonch district alone, 9,000 youth have enrolled, reflecting the program’s widespread appeal. - Young Innovators Program: Nurturing Creativity
The Young Innovators Program supports youth aged 18–35 with a minimum qualification of 10th standard to develop innovative projects in fields like art, crafts, literature, science, and research. Financial assistance of up to ₹5 lakh is provided to bring creative ideas to fruition, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. This program has inspired young Kashmiris to explore their talents and contribute to the region’s prosperity. - Skill Development Partnerships
Mission Youth has partnered with leading organizations like ICICI Foundation, Tata Technologies, and Wipro to provide skill training in high-employability sectors such as banking, digital marketing, and media management. These partnerships bridge the gap between demand and supply for skilled professionals, equipping youth with the tools to compete in a globalized economy.
Impact of Mission Youth
The impact of Mission Youth is profound. By providing financial assistance, skill training, and platforms for civic engagement, the scheme has empowered young Kashmiris to pursue their aspirations. The absence of bandh calls and stone pelting has created a conducive environment for these initiatives to flourish, allowing youth to focus on building their futures rather than being drawn into conflict. The Youth Clubs, in particular, have been lauded for their role in steering young people away from radicalization, fostering a sense of community and purpose. As one young participant from a Srinagar Youth Club noted, “The clubs gave me a sense of belonging and a chance to contribute to my community, something I never thought possible during the days of protests.”
Sports: Channeling Energy for Positive Change
Sports have emerged as a powerful tool for transforming Kashmir’s youth, providing an outlet for their energy and a platform to showcase their talents. Under LG Sinha’s administration, the J&K Sports Council and the Department of Youth Services & Sports have scaled up efforts to promote sports at the grassroots level, with remarkable results. In 2024 alone, over 27 lakh youth participated in diverse sporting activities across the region, a record-breaking milestone that underscores the growing enthusiasm.
Sports Initiatives in J&K
- Grassroots Development
The J&K Sports Council has focused on grassroots sports, organizing domestic and national-level competitions in disciplines like football, volleyball, cricket, and traditional sports like Thang-Ta. Coaching is provided through 81 coaches across nine district centers, benefiting around 26,000 sportspersons annually in 24 disciplines. Events like the Khelo India Winter Games at Gulmarg have further boosted participation, drawing young athletes from across the region. - Infrastructure and Accessibility
The government’s commitment to sports is evident in its efforts to establish at least one playfield in every panchayat. This initiative ensures that even youth in remote areas have access to sports facilities. The Department of Youth Services & Sports, established in 1973, oversees physical education in schools, promoting activities like mass physical displays, adventure sports, and extracurricular programs such as dance, drama, and debates. These efforts cater to the holistic development of school children, fostering discipline and teamwork. - International Recognition
Kashmiri youth are making their mark on the global stage. Para-athletes like Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar won bronze medals in Para Archery at the 2024 Summer Paralympics in Paris, showcasing the region’s talent and resilience. Such achievements inspire young girls and boys to pursue sports as a viable career option.
Sports as a Tool for Social Change
Sports have played a pivotal role in reducing stress and promoting mental well-being among Kashmir’s youth. By engaging in competitive and recreational activities, young people are less likely to be drawn into conflict or radicalization. The J&K government’s sports policy, introduced on February 3, 2022, emphasizes creating an ecosystem that transforms youth into a confident and competent workforce. Sports also promote social cohesion, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds and fostering tolerance and respect. As LG Sinha has stated, “Sports can act as a tool for countering terrorism, radicalization, and social tension by promoting peace and understanding.”
The decline in stone pelting and bandh calls has allowed sports activities to thrive uninterrupted, enabling young athletes to focus on training and competition. For instance, a young cricketer from Anantnag shared, “Earlier, frequent shutdowns meant we couldn’t practice regularly. Now, with peace in the Valley, I can train every day and dream of playing at the national level.”
Education: Restoring Academic Stability
The normalization of academic life in colleges across Kashmir is another cornerstone of LG Sinha’s vision. The absence of bandh calls and stone pelting has ensured that educational institutions remain open, allowing students to pursue their studies without disruption. This stability has been critical in restoring confidence among students and their families, encouraging regular attendance and participation in academic and extracurricular activities.
Revitalizing Higher Education
Colleges in J&K are now vibrant hubs of learning, with a focus on both academic excellence and personality development. The Department of Youth Services & Sports oversees physical education programs in schools and colleges, integrating activities like Scouts & Guides, cultural festivals, and debates into the curriculum. The Government College of Physical Education in Ganderbal, affiliated with Kashmir University, offers graduate and postgraduate programs in physical education, producing skilled professionals who contribute to the region’s sports ecosystem.
Impact on Youth
The uninterrupted academic calendar has allowed students to focus on their studies and career goals. Regular classes, combined with extracurricular activities, have created a holistic educational experience that prepares young Kashmiris for the challenges of the modern world. The absence of protests and shutdowns has also reduced the psychological stress that once plagued students, enabling them to engage fully in their education. As a student from Srinagar’s Degree College remarked, “For the first time in years, I feel like I can plan my future without worrying about sudden disruptions.”
The Broader Impact: A New Narrative for Kashmir
The combined impact of Mission Youth, sports initiatives, and stable educational institutions has been transformative. The youth of Kashmir are no longer defined by the tags of “stone pelters” or “violence mongers.” Instead, they are emerging as entrepreneurs, athletes, innovators, and community leaders. The decline in bandh calls and stone pelting—once hallmarks of unrest—has created a peaceful environment where these initiatives can thrive.
LG Sinha’s emphasis on peace and tourism has further amplified these efforts. By promoting Kashmir as a global tourism destination, his administration has created economic opportunities that benefit the youth, particularly in sectors like hospitality and adventure tourism. The proposed opening of a portion of the Siachen Glacier for adventure tourism is a testament to this forward-thinking approach.
Challenges and the Way Forward
While the progress is undeniable, challenges remain. Ensuring equitable access to these initiatives in remote and border areas, addressing gender disparities in sports and education, and sustaining the momentum of peace are critical priorities. The government must continue to invest in infrastructure, expand skill development programs, and engage with youth to understand their evolving needs.
LG Sinha’s leadership has set a strong foundation, but the journey toward a fully empowered youth population requires sustained commitment. Expanding the reach of Mission Youth, building more sports facilities, and strengthening educational institutions will be key to maintaining this positive trajectory.
Conclusion
Under Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha’s visionary leadership, the youth of Kashmir are charting a new course toward progress and prosperity. The Mission Youth scheme has empowered thousands through entrepreneurship, skill development, and civic engagement. A vibrant sports ecosystem has channeled their energy into productive pursuits, while stable educational institutions have restored hope and opportunity. The absence of bandh calls and stone pelting has created a conducive environment for these initiatives to flourish, allowing young Kashmiris to dream big and achieve their potential. As they embrace their roles as change-makers, the youth of Kashmir are not only shaping their own futures but also redefining the narrative of the Valley as a land of peace, talent, and opportunity. LG Sinha’s commitment to their empowerment has indeed given them a new lease on life, pulling them away from destruction and toward a brighter, more prosperous future
