Kashmir I 13 March 2025- Jammu & Kashmir has entered a transformative phase under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, with unprecedented progress in infrastructure, economic growth, and a restored sense of peace marking what many see as a new era of hope and prosperity. Since assuming office in August 2020, Manoj Sinha has driven initiatives that have reshaped the Union Territory, earning accolades from officials and residents alike.
Infrastructure development has been a key focus of Sinha’s administration. Projects like the nearly completed Z Morh tunnel and the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway are enhancing connectivity, while upgrades to rural roads, hospitals, and schools are bringing modern facilities to underserved areas. “This isn’t just about building—it’s about opening doors to progress,” a senior official noted during a recent project review. These efforts are laying the groundwork for long-term growth and accessibility across the region.
The economy, too, is on an upward trajectory. The J&K Industrial Policy 2021-30 has drawn investments exceeding ₹10,000 crores, spurring job opportunities and industrial expansion. Tourism, a vital sector, reached new heights in 2024 with over 1.27 crore visitors, including a 59% surge in foreign arrivals. “Peace has brought people back, and our livelihoods are flourishing,” said a Srinagar-based trader. Initiatives promoting rural tourism and offbeat destinations have further diversified the economic landscape, amplifying local earnings.
A peaceful environment has been central to this turnaround. Security improvements have seen militancy-related incidents plummet, with local recruitment into such groups nearly eradicated. “The people want peace, and we’re ensuring it lasts,” Sinha emphasized in a recent statement, crediting strict anti-terror measures and grassroots outreach. This stability enabled historic democratic exercises, including the 2024 Assembly elections, which saw a record 58.46% voter turnout—a testament to renewed public trust.
The administration’s governance reforms, from digital services to youth-focused programs like Mission Youth, have also struck a chord. Thousands of young people are finding opportunities through skill development and entrepreneurship schemes, shifting the narrative from conflict to ambition. “We’re seeing a generation ready to build, not break,” a community leader in Baramulla observed.
While challenges persist—such as occasional security threats in Jammu and calls for statehood restoration— LG Manoj Sinha’s tenure has instilled optimism. “Roads are better, jobs are coming, and there’s calm in the air. It’s a fresh start,” said a shopkeeper in Pahalgam. With ongoing efforts to sustain these gains, Jammu & Kashmir is steadily carving out a future defined by development and promise under Sinha’s stewardship.