Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha stated on Monday that large parts of India are now largely free from terrorism, with a notable decline in local recruitment into militant groups in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Addressing the Strategic Management Forum (SMF) Conference at IIM Jammu, he highlighted that the northeastern region has seen significant advancements in security.
“Large areas across the country have been freed from terrorism. Except for some pockets, most of the northeastern states are now terrorism-free,” Sinha said. He indicated that the threat from left-wing extremism and Naxalism has drastically reduced, now confined to just two or three districts.
Shifting focus to J&K, the Lieutenant Governor mentioned, “There are no top commanders alive from the terror groups active in the region today.” He reported that local recruitment for terrorist activities has decreased sharply, with only one or two youths being recruited recently.
However, Sinha accused Pakistan of continuing attempts to infiltrate terrorists into India. “Those coming across the border are hiding in dense forests and tough terrains. I assure you they will be eliminated. No matter how long it takes, they will not survive,” he stated firmly.
The Lieutenant Governor emphasized a shift in the nature of terrorism, where educated and informed individuals now engage in these activities. He called for a collaborative effort in fighting terrorism. “The fight against terrorism should not rest solely on security forces. Society and certain administrative bodies must also contribute,” he urged.
In addressing societal issues, Sinha strongly condemned the divisive “insider-outsider” narrative that he believes hinders development efforts. He underscored the importance of unity for achieving developmental goals.
Outlining his vision for a developed India by 2047, Sinha highlighted the critical role played by policymakers and business leaders in navigating both challenges and opportunities within a rapidly evolving global landscape. He stressed macroeconomic stability, increased investments in education and healthcare, and enhancing digital tools as key areas of focus.
“India’s growth under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unprecedented. There’s renewed confidence among industry leaders, while sectors like manufacturing, services, and handicrafts are gaining global competitiveness. The Prime Minister’s emphasis on ‘Swadeshi’ has reinvigorated these industries,” Sinha affirmed.
In terms of economic potential for J&K, Sinha urged the need to explore the region’s untapped mining resources. “J&K is rich in reserves of limestone, lithium, sapphire, and other valuable minerals. With strategic planning, we can generate an additional annual revenue of Rs 15,000 to Rs 20,000 crore over the next five to seven years,” he explained.
He also called for further development of the hydropower sector and suggested revisions to the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) to adapt to the region’s evolving economic landscape.
During the conference, the Lieutenant Governor inaugurated the Basohli Painting Exhibition and celebrated the contributions of artists in a workshop, emphasizing the cultural value of Basohli Painting. “This artistic heritage holds profound significance for present and future generations,” he remarked, praising the collaborative efforts of IIM Jammu and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).
The event attracted numerous dignitaries, including IIM Jammu Director Prof B.S. Sahay, JERC Chairman R.K. Chaudhary, NITI Aayog Economic Advisor Subash Chandra Meena, and several academicians and industry leaders.
