Kashmiris ‘breathing freely’ now: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday asserted that Jammu and Kashmir was “breathing freely” after the abrogation of Article 370 and pledged accelerated progress over the next five years.
“Modi will not leave any stone unturned to repay this debt of affection. This is Modi sanz (Kashmiri word) guarantee,” he said addressing a massive rally at Srinagar’s Bakshi stadium, the first by a prime minister.
This was Modi’s first visit to Kashmir since the Centre abrogated the special status given to the erstwhile state and bifurcated it into two Union territories — Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh — on August 5, 2019.
Modi dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth more than Rs 6,400 crore in the state.
He urged the tourists visiting Kashmir to spend at least five to 10 per cent of their tour packages on shopping which will generate livelihood and job opportunities for the locals.
“You cannot come, see and go back. You should spend 5 to 10 per cent on shopping. I have also purchased from here,” he said. Encouraging tourists to contribute to the local economy through shopping, he also called upon NRIs to participate in the ‘Chalo India’ initiative.
“Jammu and Kashmir is not just a region but India’s head. A head held high is the symbol of development and honour. That is why a developed Jammu and Kashmir is the priority of a developed India,” he said.
Modi referred to the successful hosting of the G-20 meeting in Jammu and Kashmir which, he said, boosted tourist arrivals in the Union territory with more than two crore tourists visiting in 2023.