In a show of support for the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha graced the ‘Shikara’ Fest organised by the Kashmir Education, Culture and Science Society in New Delhi.
The two-day event aimed to celebrate Kashmir’s diverse cultural and artistic traditions, cuisine, and provided a platform for showcasing a variety of handmade creative products.
Lt. Governor Sinha emphasised the vital role that culture plays in shaping a stronger society and reinforcing the national fabric. He described culture as an “ocean of values” that allows for the exploration of age-old traditions and a better understanding and appreciation of cultural ethos.
“Rule of Law has been firmly established in the Union Territory of J&K, and strict actions are taken against those supporting terrorism,” said Lt. Governor.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is dedicated to promoting, preserving, and enriching India’s cultural heritage. Lt. Governor Sinha reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive development across Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring that it reflects the region’s unique ethos.
During the Shikara Fest, Lt. Governor Sinha shared the transformative journey of Jammu and Kashmir, noting significant improvements in the last three years. He highlighted the decrease in stone-pelting incidents, an end to street protests, school and college closures influenced by external forces, and the return of a sense of normalcy.
Lt. Governor Sinha also discussed government initiatives for the rehabilitation of Kashmiri migrant families.
He said steps have been taken to fulfill the promise of providing 6000 transit accommodations and 6000 jobs under the Prime Minister’s Development Package. He assured that most of these promises have been fulfilled, with new accommodation units being allocated, and more to be dedicated in the coming months.
Lt. Governor Sinha expressed his commitment to resolving the issues faced by Kashmiri migrant families, including addressing the distressed sale of properties. The government is also exploring the possibility of providing land at a lower cost to government employees in Srinagar to build their own houses.
In addition, an online portal has been launched for the redressal of grievances related to Kashmir Migrants’ immovable properties, resulting in the freeing of encroached properties from illegal occupants.
The Lt. Governor remains in constant communication with Kashmiri migrant and other minority community members and assured that their concerns are being addressed with the utmost sensitivity.
The event was attended by members of the Kashmir Education, Culture & Science Society and prominent personalities from various fields.
