Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced on Monday that large parts of India have been freed from terrorism, stating that, barring minor pockets, most of the northeast regions are now free from this menace. He highlighted the sharp decline in local recruitment into terrorist ranks in Jammu and Kashmir, confirming that terrorists hiding in challenging terrains will be eliminated.
Speaking at the three-day Strategic Management Forum (SMF) Conference, which focuses on policy-making for a Viksit Bharat by 2047, Sinha remarked that left-wing extremism and Naxalism threats have been significantly reduced. “Large parts of the country have been liberated from terrorism. Most regions of the northeast are now terrorism-free. The former threat, aiming to create a corridor from Hyderabad to Nepal, is now confined to only two or three districts,” he stated.
Regarding Jammu and Kashmir, Sinha confirmed, “Not a single top commander of terrorist organisations operating in the region is alive.” He noted the drastic reduction in local youth recruitment, stating only one or two individuals join terrorist groups currently.
However, Sinha highlighted that infiltration attempts from Pakistan still pose a danger, asserting, “Those infiltrating from across the border hide in dense forests and mountainous terrain. I assure you that they will be eliminated. They will not survive no matter the time it takes.”
He observed a shift in the nature of terrorism, pointing out that educated individuals are increasingly engaging in these activities. “This fight cannot solely depend on the security forces. Society and specific administrative sectors must contribute alongside security personnel,” Sinha advised.
The Lieutenant Governor also addressed the divisive “insider-outsider” narrative, which he claimed obstructs development. He urged a unified approach to foster growth in the region.
Emphasizing India’s developmental goals, he remarked that policymakers and business leaders play crucial roles in navigating an evolving global landscape. “Our priority should center on macroeconomic stability, high investment in education, healthcare advancements, and participatory governance,” he emphasized.
Sinha praised the unprecedented growth witnessed under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, asserting, “There is a renewed confidence among industry leaders. Manufacturing, services, and traditional industries are gaining global recognition.”
Pointing to Jammu and Kashmir’s untapped economic potential, the Lieutenant Governor insisted on exploring its mineral reserves. “J&K has vast reserves, including limestone and lithium. With strategic planning, we can generate an additional revenue of Rs 15,000 crore to Rs 20,000 crore over the next five to seven years,” he detailed.
He urged maximization of the hydropower sector and suggested revisions to the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) to meet evolving economic needs.
During the conference, Sinha unveiled the Basohli Painting Exhibition and presided over the valedictory session of a related workshop, expressing pride in the state’s artistic heritage. “Basohli Painting is a priceless heritage that holds immense value for the present and future generations,” he noted.
The event also featured several dignitaries, including Prof B.S. Sahay, Director of IIM Jammu, and other notable academicians, policymakers, and artists, who gathered to deliberate on strategic initiatives and celebrate cultural heritage.
