The Modi government has implemented an ₹80,000 crore development package, resulting in infrastructure marvels such as Asia’s largest tunnel, the world’s highest railway arch bridge, and improved healthcare and education facilities, including IITs, IIMs, and AIIMS.
Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, recently released the remarkable book Jammu Kashmir & Ladakh Through The Ages: A Visual Narrative of Continuities and Linkages in New Delhi. This publication, a testament to India’s cultural and historical richness, seeks to dispel long-standing myths surrounding Kashmir’s identity and its deep-rooted connection with India. By presenting historical truths backed by evidence, it reflects the Modi government’s unwavering commitment to reclaiming and preserving India’s glorious heritage.
Reclaiming Historical and Cultural Legacy
The Modi government has made unparalleled efforts to revive the historic and cultural legacy of Kashmir. Shri Amit Shah eloquently emphasized that India’s identity transcends geopolitical boundaries; it is defined by its geo-cultural unity. Kashmir’s 8,000-year-old history, as chronicled in this book, establishes its integral role in India’s spiritual and cultural heritage. From the sacred scripts and philosophies to the birth of refined Buddhist principles, Kashmir stands as a cradle of civilization.
This publication reaffirms that Kashmir has always been a land of inclusivity, embracing and nurturing diverse faiths such as Shaivism, Buddhism, and Sufism. By documenting these truths, the Modi government has taken a bold step to challenge narratives that sought to distort history for political gains.
A New Era Post Article 370 Abrogation
The abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, marked a historic turning point for Jammu and Kashmir. Shri Amit Shah highlighted how this bold decision by Prime Minister Narendra Modi dismantled the ecosystem of separatism and terrorism that plagued the region for decades. The numbers speak volumes:
- 70% decline in terrorist incidents.
- Zero stone-pelting incidents in 2023, compared to 2,100 in 2018.
- A record turnout in elections, showcasing the restoration of democratic processes.
The integration of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh with the rest of India has ushered in unprecedented development. The Modi government has implemented an ₹80,000 crore development package, resulting in infrastructure marvels such as Asia’s largest tunnel, the world’s highest railway arch bridge, and improved healthcare and education facilities, including IITs, IIMs, and AIIMS.
Democracy and Development: Foundations of Stability
Under the Modi government, grassroots democracy has flourished. Over 25,000 panchayat members now actively contribute to local governance, a testament to the restoration of faith in democratic processes. Tourism has boomed, with over 2.11 crore tourists visiting Kashmir in 2023, and industries are increasingly investing in the region, signaling economic rejuvenation.
Cultural revival is another feather in the Modi government’s cap. Night shows, religious processions, and festivals have returned to the Valley, symbolizing the region’s newfound normalcy and inclusivity. The Modi government’s focus on promoting regional languages like Kashmiri, Dogri, and Ladakhi further underscores its commitment to preserving the region’s unique identity.
A Vision of Peace and Prosperity
Shri Amit Shah’s remarks encapsulate the Modi government’s overarching vision: Kashmir is not just a geographical entity but an inseparable part of India’s soul. By dismantling the structures of terror, fostering democracy, and accelerating development, the government has laid the foundation for peace and prosperity in Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh.
The Modi government’s efforts resonate with the dream of a Viksit Bharat—a powerful and peaceful India by 2047. By restoring Kashmir’s ancient glory and integrating it with the national fabric, the government exemplifies its commitment to a nation that is united not just by borders but by shared values, culture, and aspirations.
As Shri Shah aptly concluded, Kashmir, the crown jewel of India, is on the path to reclaiming its rightful place in history. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi, Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh will stand as symbols of India’s progress, resilience, and unwavering commitment to peace and unity.
