‘Neighbour trying to disturb peace in Valley’
Excelsior Correspondent
KOLKATA, Dec 22: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today said that the security situation in the Union Territory has significantly improved following the abrogation of Article 370, asserting that terrorism is on its deathbed in the Valley.
In response to the “unfortunate” terrorist attack on an Army convoy in Poonch district on Thursday, resulting in the death of five soldiers and injuries to two, Sinha expressed his condemnation.
He attributed attempts to disrupt peace in the Valley to “our neighbour,” a veiled reference to Pakistan.
Sinha emphasised, “It is a very unfortunate and sad incident. We condemn such violence. Our neighbour has been doing such things to disturb the peace in the valley. But it’s all in vain, as terrorism is on its deathbed in Kashmir.”
Addressing reporters at a programme organised by the Calcutta Chamber of Commerce in Kolkata, Sinha further remarked, “The security situation has improved to a large extent than what it was earlier, after the abrogation of Article 370.”
Responding to queries from chamber members, Sinha compared the security situation in Kashmir to that in Bengal, stating, “The security situation in Kashmir is better than that in Bengal. Please visit the State, and you will see the difference.”
Later, when questioned by reporters about the comment, Sinha clarified, “My remarks should not be twisted politically, as I meant to say that the security situation in Kashmir is as good as in Bengal.”
Speaking at the programme titled “Scope of Industry in Jammu & Kashmir,” Sinha highlighted the improved industrial climate in the Union Territory.
He noted, “J&K is now charting a historic path since the abrogation of Article 370. A solid foundation has been built for the industrial development. Investing in J&K will be a wise choice for those seeking growth.”
“We decided to improve the entire ecosystem. There are immense opportunities in the UT, like in the horticulture sector. I want to ensure that after 2019, J&K is emerging as a peaceful and corruption-free region. There had been a record number of tourist arrivals in the UT last year,” Sinha added.
The Lieutenant Governor affirmed that the Union Territory welcomes both MSMEs and large industries, assuring that investments made there will be secure and protected.
Earlier, Manoj Sinha addressed the Special Session on ‘Scope of Industry in Jammu Kashmir’, organized by the Calcutta Chamber of Commerce (CCC) at Kolkata.
He highlighted the rapid and unprecedented transformation in Jammu Kashmir, opportunities in various sectors, appropriate policies for investors, economic growth and employment generation in the Union Territory.
“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, vigorous growth in all the sectors of economy is our mission. We are committed to utilize abundant resources to foster industrial competitiveness and promote collaboration,” the Lt Governor said.
He invited the Industry leaders and potential investors to explore the prospects of profitable investments and economic opportunities in J&K.
“J&K UT now adheres to the norm of red carpet and not red tape to ensure safety and growth of investment, ease of doing business, ease of living and a robust government to business interface for long-term future for investments in different sectors,” he said.
He said the comprehensive approach of the UT Administration through new industrial scheme is aimed at creating a conducive and dynamic environment for growth in Agriculture, Health & Pharmaceuticals, Manufacturing, Tourism & Hospitality, Education & Skill development, Handicraft & Handloom and IT & Electronics.
“Digitalization is one of the top priorities of the government to build e-society and ensure long-term prosperity. Research & Development is another key area with focus on making J&K one of the country’s most dynamic R&D locations and strengthen the link between Industry and Academia,” he said.
Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce Department, J&K presented a detailed overview of the industrial sector and its growth potential in J&K UT.
Hari Shankar Halwasiya, President, Calcutta Chamber of Commerce; Sushil Agrawal and RK Chhajer- former Presidents, CCC; office bearers of the Chamber and representatives of various industries were present.
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