Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir marks a significant moment as he embarks on his third consecutive term. The two day visit, occurring on June 20-21, symbolizes both continuity and a renewed commitment to the region. With a packed agenda, including the inauguration of development projects worth over ₹1,800 crore and leading the International Yoga Day celebrations, the PM’s trip is an effort to reach out to the Valley.
The launching of 84 development projects worth over ₹1,500 crore reflects the administration’s focus on improving road connectivity, water supply schemes, and higher education infrastructure. The launch of the Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP), valued at ₹1,800 crore, signals a significant investment in enhancing the agricultural sector’s productivity and sustainability.
In addition to the tangible infrastructure developments, Modi’s presence in Srinagar for the International Day of Yoga holds symbolic value. He will lead the yoga session on the banks of the picturesque Dal Lake, with over 7,000 participants,.
However, the expectations from the PM extend beyond development projects and symbolic gestures. As the Prime Minister of India, Modi’s role encompasses addressing the broader political aspirations and concerns of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. One of the critical expectations from his visit is an announcement regarding the long-pending assembly elections. The state’s politics since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019 has been in a state of flux, and the restoration of democratic processes through timely elections is crucial for the region’s stability and growth.
The announcement of assembly elections would demonstrate a commitment to democratic principles and provide the people of Jammu and Kashmir with a sense of political agency. It is essential for Modi to reassure people that their voices will be heard and their elected representatives will have a say in the region’s governance. Such a move would not only bolster local governance but also enhance the credibility of the central government’s intentions in the region.
Moreover, empowering the youth is a central theme of Modi’s visit, as highlighted by the “Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K” event at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC). The distribution of appointment letters to over 2,000 individuals selected for government positions is a step towards addressing unemployment and providing economic opportunities. However, the youth in the region also yearn for a stable political environment that offers them a future within a democratic framework.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir can be a good effort, balancing developmental aspirations with political expectations. While the launch of various projects signifies progress, assuring people of a return to democracy would resonate deeply in the region.
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