Jammu & Kashmir LG Shri Manoj Sinha paid homage to the remarkable contributions of Late Shri Wazir Mohd Hakla Poonchi by releasing a commemorative postage stamp. This significant event highlighted the profound impact of Poonchi, a renowned Gujjar leader, social worker, and writer, on the socio-economic upliftment of the Gujjar Bakarwal community in Jammu and Kashmir. In his address, he lauded Poonchi’s unwavering dedication to the national integration and his lifelong commitment to uplifting the downtrodden sections of society. “Wazir Mohd Hakla Poonchi played a vital role in national integration and dedicated his life to the upliftment of the downtrodden. He consistently advocated for safeguarding the rights of Scheduled Tribes and spearheaded the movement demanding tribal status for Gujjars and Bakarwals,” Sinha emphasized. Poonchi’s enduring legacy is rooted in his relentless efforts to inspire the youth of the Gujjar Bakarwal community to engage in nation-building and selfless societal service. His campaigns not only sought to elevate the socio-economic status of his community but also to foster a sense of national pride and duty among its members. He reiterated the commitment of the Union Territory administration, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to empower and protect the rights of every societal segment, especially the tribal communities. He called upon the Gujjar Bakarwal community to support the administration in combating terrorism and drug abuse by providing accurate information to security agencies. “Our Gujjar Bakarwal community has always stood firm with the security forces against our enemies. We must identify and isolate those aiding and abetting the terror ecosystem,” Sinha stated. Shamsher Rana Hakla Poonchi, expressing his gratitude, acknowledged the honour bestowed upon his father by the Prime Minister and the Lt Governor-led administration. He highlighted the significant and lasting contributions of Wazir Mohd Hakla Poonchi to the nation. The event, held at Raj Bhawan, was graced by distinguished personalities, including Justice Mohd. Akram Chowdhary, Judge of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh; Sh Amitabh Singh, Chief Postmaster General of J&K Circle; and family members of Wazir Mohd Hakla Poonchi. Prominent members of the Gujjar Bakarwal community, Ms. Tazeem Akhter, Chairperson of the District Development Council Poonch, Ch. Mohd. Yasin, Deputy Commissioner of Poonch, and former legislators also attended the occasion, underscoring the widespread respect and admiration for Poonchi’s contributions. This commemorative postage stamp serves not only as a tribute to Wazir Mohd Hakla Poonchi’s enduring legacy but also as a reminder of the continuous efforts needed to uplift marginalized communities and foster unity and development within the nation.