A Dawn of Renewal and Resolve, Says L‑G Manoj Sinha

SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday used the occasion of Republic Day to deliver a sweeping message of confidence, resolve, and transformation, declaring that a “Naya Savera”—a new dawn—has begun to take shape in Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing the main Republic Day function in winter capital Jammu, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to peace, prosperity, and inclusive development, while paying solemn tribute to martyrs, victims of terrorism, and those who lost their lives in natural calamities and tragic incidents.

The Lt. Governor saluted the courage of the security forces, noting that Operation Sindoor had sent an unequivocal message to the world- terrorism will not be tolerated under any circumstances. He praised the armed forces for neutralising the Pakistani terrorists responsible for the Pahalgam attack and paid homage to the victims of that tragedy, as well as those who perished in the November 14 accidental blast at Srinagar’s Nowgam police station. Acknowledging the hardships caused by recent natural disasters, he expressed gratitude to the security forces, SDRF, and NDRF for their tireless rescue and relief efforts.

Turning to development, Sinha emphasised that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, J&K is contributing meaningfully to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. He described the region as entering a new era marked by peace, progress, and expanding opportunities. Tourism, he noted, continues to be a cornerstone of the local economy. Despite the setback caused by the Pahalgam terror attack and natural calamities, the Union Territory welcomed over 1.61 crore tourists between January and November 2025, he said. He highlighted ongoing efforts to restore visitor confidence and promote J&K as a premier destination.

The Lt. Governor also praised initiatives that foster national unity and public participation. The Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s participation in the Kashmir Marathon, he said, infused new energy into the event, while the massive turnout in the Tiranga Yatra reflected the deep-rooted patriotism of the people.

Reiterating that a Naya Savera has truly emerged, Sinha outlined the government’s strong measures to eliminate terrorism and support families affected by violence. He announced that all pending terrorism-related killing cases would be re-examined to ensure justice. On the infrastructure front, he highlighted the long-awaited railway connectivity linking Kashmir with the rest of the country and the express highways that have significantly improved regional mobility. The effective rollout of centrally sponsored schemes, he added, has brought transformative changes across multiple sectors.

Encouraging citizens to embrace clean energy, he urged households to install solar panels under the PM Surya Ghar Bijli Yojana, calling it a step toward sustainability and energy independence. He emphasised that J&K is steadily moving toward peace, progress, and inclusive development through the collective efforts of the government and its people.

The Lt. Governor also paid heartfelt tribute to the freedom fighters and the architects of the Constitution, acknowledging their courage, vision, and sacrifice in shaping the nation. Commending the Armed Forces, paramilitary units, and J&K Police for their unwavering vigilance and sacrifice, he underscored their role in safeguarding peace and protecting the region’s freedom. He stressed the need to guide J&K toward greater heights of development by accelerating economic growth, strengthening infrastructure, and ensuring equitable access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for youth—especially women.

The ceremony featured an impressive parade with contingents from the Army, CAPFs, J&K Police, J&K Armed Police, fire and emergency services, NCC, and schoolchildren. Cultural performances and drills by students followed, adding colour and vibrancy to the celebrations. The event was attended by Chief Minister Abdullah, high court judges, ministers, senior civil and police officials, and a large gathering of civilians.

Across the Valley and Jammu and Union Territory of Ladakh Republic Day was celebrated with traditional enthusiasm amid tight security. The main function at Srinagar’s Bakshi Stadium was secured with a three-tier security cordon reminiscent of pre-2019 arrangements, though mobile and internet services remained operational.

The national flag was hoisted at all government offices, including the Divisional Commissioner’s office, marking a day of unity, pride, and renewed hope across the Union territories, officials said.