Jammu, May 2, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir is experiencing a profound transformation under the dynamic leadership of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, with strengthened Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) fostering participatory governance at the grassroots. This revitalisation has empowered citizens, amplified their voices, and positioned the Union Territory as a model of inclusive development driven by community engagement.
LG Manoj Sinha’s tenure has been marked by a steadfast commitment to bolstering local governance. On March 3, 2025, he articulated his vision, stating, “My administration is dedicated to empowering PRIs and ULBs through timely elections and adequate resources, ensuring grassroots democracy thrives and citizens shape their own development.” This pledge has translated into actionable reforms, including preparations for long-pending elections for panchayats, municipalities, and block development councils, whose terms lapsed in 2023 and 2024. The Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Dedicated Backward Classes Commission, formed in June 2023, recently submitted recommendations to enhance Other Backward Classes representation, paving the way for inclusive polls. A partnership with the Madhya Pradesh Election Commission will provide EVMs and training to streamline the process.
These efforts have revitalized PRIs and ULBs, enabling them to address local priorities with greater autonomy and accountability. From rural sanitation initiatives, like the recent deployment of hooper dumper vehicles in Shopian to support the Swachh Bharat Mission, to healthcare outreach, such as the army-led medical camp in Tarkundi village along the Line of Control, Sinha’s administration has prioritized community-driven progress. The International Labour Day celebration in Shopian, organized by DLSA and the Labour Department, further exemplifies this focus, promoting workers’ rights and welfare.
Despite challenges, including the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, Sinha has maintained a delicate balance between security and development. Following the attack, he convened a Legislative Assembly session on April 28, 2025, passing a resolution condemning terrorism and reinforcing regional unity. His administration’s decisive actions, including the termination of employees linked to terror activities, have ensured a stable environment for governance reforms to flourish.
Social media posts on X have lauded Sinha’s leadership, with citizens praising the empowerment of PRIs and ULBs as a catalyst for change. The increased responsiveness of local bodies, coupled with enhanced citizen participation, reflects a new era of governance in J&K. As the region navigates its complex socio-political landscape, LG Sinha’s vision continues to drive a future where grassroots democracy shapes a prosperous and inclusive Jammu and Kashmir.