Only Kashmir News Desk
People from diverse backgrounds and occupations, including prominent religious leaders, Traders, Students, activists, artists, representatives of the Tourism sector, NGOs, and representatives of the Sufi Islamic Board and ors Saturday participated ‘Sadbhavana’ conference on Sufism and Kashmiriyat organised by Indian Minorities Foundation (IMF) at Kashmir International Convention Centre (KICC) in Srinagar.
The participants hailed the initiatives taken by PM Narendra Modi to improve the overall security situation in Kashmir which has led to the remarkable transformation of the UT. The speakers at the conference highlighted that Kashmir’s culture is unique and the tradition of peaceful co-existence in the valley is exemplary.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, chief guest on the occasion, lauded the crucial role of the Indian Minorities Foundation in empowering minorities, promoting Sufism, and fostering brotherhood, peace, and harmony as envisioned by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
“Hon’ble Prime Minister gave us a vision ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’. The Government has only one religion-India first, one holy book- the constitution, and one ritual-well being of all. It defines our ancient civilization, respect for all religious beliefs and practices, and our determination of inclusive growth,” the Lt Governor said.
Satnam Singh Sandhu, IMF Convenor, while announcing scholarships for students from Kashmir, said that J&K has ushered into a new era of peace, prosperity, and progress during the last 4 years.
“With the end of violence and terrorism, an era of peace has prevailed in J&K, and the region is now scaling new heights in its path to development. Since J&K became a Union Territory, it has bridged the gap between the government and the Valley and enabled the implementation of government policies in the region. Record numbers of tourists, influx of huge investments and developmental projects are changing the face of Kashmir.”
He further added, “The annual budget for J&K has been increased to INR 1,18,500 Crore in 2023-24 from INR 80,423 in 2019-20. The region is progressing in every aspect and Kashmiri youth are now actively participating and enormously contributing in the development of India with their innovative ideas and government’s support.” Satnam Singh Sandhu also said the region is becoming a sought-after destination for both domestic and international travellers as well as for film shooting. As many as 1.88 Crore tourists visited J&K in 2022, and the number is expected to cross this year.
On the occasion, the Lt Governor felicitated the Sufi Scholars and Religious leaders including Syed Kalbe Rushaid Rizvi, Moulana Ghulam Rasool Hami, Moulana Abdul Rashid Dawoodi, Sufi Singer Abdul Rashid Hafiz, BJP Youth leader Manzoor Bhat, Haji Syed Salman Chisty, Abdul Rehman Khadim and the representatives of NGOs- We the Helping Hand Foundation, South Asia Centre for Peace and People Empowerment and Kashmir Speaks.
QUOTES FROM DIVERSE BACKGROUNDS AND OCCUPATIONS:
Ghulam Rasool Shia, former Chairman of Kashmir Houseboat Owners Association (KHBOA): “The houseboat industry was witnessing a slow business few years back, but due to the historic decision taken by the present government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and today we have the best business of the times in last 20 to 30 years.”
Rafiq, a local fruit seller and boatman, expressed gratitude towards the Modi government for introducing Digital India, which has contributed to the growth of digital payments and the reduction of cash transactions in the country. He said, “Digital India initiative by the Modi government has transformed the lives of everyone and empowered the entire society, especially those connected with the tourism industry have benefitted from it largely. When the tourists do not have cash or change for making the payment, they can simply make digital payment using the UPI.”
Hasan, a local Kahwa seller, said, “The people of Kashmir are grateful to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for various initiatives and decisions that have led to a remarkable transformation in conditions across Jammu and Kashmir. The image of J&K has changed under PM Modi’s leadership, and the fear that prevailed among people due to violence in the region has also been removed. Even the G20 conference in Srinagar under the Indian presidency gave the message of Peaceful Kashmir across the globe, which has led to Kashmir becoming a popular and safe destination for tourists from different countries of the world.”
Aamir Sufi said, “Under PM Modi’s leadership, J&K is witnessing the revival of Kashmiriyat which promotes affection and compassion. While there once existed unrest and disturbing conditions in the valley, the essence of peace has returned in J&K during the last 4 years and prosperity has touched every section of the population. Kashmir valley has witnessed tourism boom and there are tales of development everywhere.”
Tahir, a local Kashmiri man, said, “After the Abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, peace, compassion and prosperity has prevailed in Kashmir. The UT has seen unprecedented developments due to the reforms and policies of the government, especially in the business and investment sector. Today, Kashmir receives investments from various foreign investors and stakeholders like EMAAR Group from Dubai. The unemployment rate in J&K has seen a drastic decline during the last 4 years, and the tourism industry is booming like never before.”
Manzoor Bhat, a senior Party leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), expressed his deep gratitude for the honor, and he took the opportunity to pay tribute to the transformative vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also credited LG Manoj Sinha’s administration for playing a pivotal role in bringing about a period of significant development, characterized by a reduction in strikes and curfews. This environment has allowed the youth to concentrate on their careers and aspirations rather than being drawn into militancy.
Ashiq Sultan, International Taekwondo Gold Medalist, said, “Development of sports in India and performance of sportspersons has been the core focus of the Modi government, which introduced dynamic transformation in this sector during the last few years. Khelo India programme is a testimony of the government’s commitment towards promoting sports and nurturing the young sporting talent in the country. It is due to the support from the government that I have been able to represent the country at an international level and bring laurels to both my country and state.” He also thanked the government for the Fit India initiative and the Sports Council for supporting and encouraging the players to give their best performances.
Zainab, a young Kashmiri girl expressed her respect for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said she takes pride in being a daughter of India. Her words were a testimony of how PM Modi is inspiring and empowering young girls of the country through his initiatives.
