Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced on Monday that large parts of India have effectively been freed from terrorism, with significant reductions reported in local recruitment rates in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at the three-day Strategic Management Forum Conference at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Jammu, Sinha shared optimistic insights regarding terrorism’s decline in the country.
Sinha outlined that most northeastern states have also achieved relative safety from terrorism, noting, “Large parts of the country have been freed from terrorism. Except for a few pockets, most of the northeast has become terrorism-free.” He highlighted the remarkable efforts in reducing threats from left-wing extremism and Naxalism, which have dwindled to just two or three districts.
Addressing the current situation in Jammu and Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor stated that no prominent commanders of terrorist organisations remain alive. He added, “Local recruitment into terrorism has seen a sharp decline. Hardly one or two youths are being recruited now.”
However, Sinha did not shy away from mentioning Pakistan’s ongoing infiltration attempts. He expressed, “Those coming from across the border are hiding in dense forests and mountainous terrain. I assure you they will be eliminated. No matter how long it takes, they will not survive.”
The LG pointed out a shift in the character of terrorism, where even educated individuals are now getting involved. He argued that combating this menace requires a whole-of-society approach. “The fight against terrorism cannot be left to security forces alone in regions like Jammu and Kashmir, parts of Karnataka, and Kerala,” he stated, urging communities and administrative wings to collaborate in this effort.
Sinha also advocated for the discontinuation of the divisive “insider-outsider” narrative, which he believes hampers the development process. His comments reflect a growing consensus on the need for unity in the face of national challenges.
The Lieutenant Governor articulated a vision for achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047, emphasizing the role of policymakers and business leaders in adapting to rapid changes. “Our focus should be on macroeconomic stability, high investment in education and health, digital tools, participatory governance, transparency, accountability, and speedy project implementation,” he remarked.
Highlighting India’s economic growth under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Sinha expressed optimism about the industrial sector’s resurgence. He noted, “There is renewed confidence among industry leaders, while manufacturing, services, village industries, and handicrafts are competing globally, propelled by the Prime Minister’s call for Swadeshi.”
Moreover, the LG referenced Jammu and Kashmir’s vast mining potential, indicating that the region holds substantial reserves of limestone, sapphire, lithium, and other resources. “With strategic planning, an additional annual revenue of Rs 15,000 crore to Rs 20,000 crore can be generated in the next five to seven years,” he added, underlining the immense economic prospects awaiting the region.
Sinha also reiterated the need to enhance the hydropower sector and proposed adjustments to the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) to align with evolving economic requirements.
The event included the unveiling of the Basohli Painting Exhibition, a celebration of the region’s artistic heritage, where he commended the efforts of IIM Jammu and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA). “Basohli Painting is our priceless artistic heritage, holding immense value for present and future generations,” said Sinha, as he honoured local artists.
Prominent figures at the conference included Prof B.S. Sahay, Director of IIM Jammu; R.K. Chaudhary, Chairman of JERC J&K and Ladakh; and other academicians and policymakers, all engaged in discussions surrounding strategic planning for the nation’s development.
