JAMMU, August 15: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary expressed optimism on Saturday that the Union Territory would regain its full statehood by the next Independence Day celebration, stating that the restoration of statehood is a significant public demand and a promise made by the central government.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Choudhary, speaking to reporters after attending the Independence Day ceremony at Maulana Azad Stadium in Jammu, emphasized that the return of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is a clear demand of the people, echoing assurances from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
“The restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is our clear demand. This is not merely our demand; it is also a promise made by the prime minister and the home minister to the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” he stated.
Choudhary conveyed his hope that by August 15 of the following year, Jammu and Kashmir will once again hold the status of a full state, moving away from its current Union Territory designation. He noted that the residents have grown weary of the Union Territory arrangement and are keen for the prompt restoration of statehood.
Earlier, Choudhary had unfurled the national tricolour at the Independence Day event and extended his greetings to the citizens. He paid homage to the freedom fighters and martyrs for their sacrifices in securing the nation’s independence and urged people to remember the sacrifices of mothers and sisters who lost their sons and brothers in service to the country.
During his address at the function, the Deputy Chief Minister highlighted various developmental initiatives undertaken by the government, underscoring ongoing efforts to propel Jammu and Kashmir towards new milestones of development.
He detailed government measures aimed at fostering industrial growth and establishing new manufacturing units within the Union Territory, with a particular focus on generating employment opportunities for the local youth. He also spoke about the employment schemes currently in implementation and the drive to broaden opportunities for young people.
In the realm of education, Choudhary assured that the government is committed to ensuring access to education from primary to higher levels, with a special emphasis on improving educational prospects for girls and advancing women’s empowerment. The expansion of medical education and the promotion of traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda were also identified as government priorities.
Highlighting the intrinsic strengths of the region, he stated, “Jammu and Kashmir’s real strength lies in its villages, farmers, youth, culture, heritage and hardworking people. These are the pillars of our social, commercial and economic strength.”
The Deputy Chief Minister also reported an acceleration in development projects across various sectors, including roads, water supply, sanitation, education, and agriculture. He stressed the importance of preserving and promoting Jammu and Kashmir’s rich and centuries-old art, culture, handicrafts, and heritage on a global platform.
Appealing for unity, peace, and prosperity, Choudhary called for collective action from citizens to contribute to the development and a brighter future for Jammu and Kashmir. He urged everyone to pledge that the sacrifices of the past would not be in vain and to move forward with determination for the unity, integrity, peace, and prosperity of the region.
The Chenab Times News Desk