Delivering this month’s “Awaam Ki Awaaz” broadcast, J&K Lt Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday highlighted the UT government’s efforts towards encouraging citizens to participate in governance and to their commitment towards nation building.
“Awaam Ki Awaaz is transforming creative ideas of people into realities. If there is a change in our thinking and a deep sense of purpose for the prosperity of all and preservation of cultural heritage, then nothing can stop the progress of a modern society,” Sinha said.
It is important that social uplift, human welfare and nation building become top priorities for every individual. This is a golden period for J&K. The entire society should become one mind, one soul and work together to make their dreams come true in Amrit Kaal, he observed.
We have to move forward unitedly and remove every hurdle on the path leading to the holistic development of Jammu Kashmir, said Sinha.
“In both rural and urban areas, there is a need to isolate elements holding J&K back so that the creative forces of society can work as a cohesive group towards the shared goal of making India the new economic powerhouse of the world,” he said.
Sharing the inspirational success stories of women heroes and green warriors, Sinha appreciated the effort of Sopore’s daughter, Mufara Majeed, to build a solar-powered boat and her dedication to combat climate change and to promote green development. These individual small steps will make big changes in the journey of sustainable development, he added.
Women are society’s most ideal architects. Their strong resolve, grit and capabilities act as a strong foundation for the progress of the nation and society, he observed.
“The women of Kheral village of Reasi have formed a Duggar Dhani Self Help Group (SHG) in collaboration with the district administration, the JKRLM and J&K Tourism and their success is a good indicator of J&K's socio-economic growth and women empowerment,” he said.
Syed Darakhsa of Budgam is the epitome of strength and courage. As the head of the ten-member women self-help artisans group, she is scripting a success story through innovative designs, packaging and marketing, he added.
He said the women self-help groups in Jammu Kashmir have the potential to create their own space in the global market. The Lt Governor also directed the Rural Livelihood Mission, the District Administration, J&K’s Trade Promotion Organisation, the Industries and Commerce Departments and all other stakeholders to contribute their efforts in an integrated manner.
The Lt Governor also made a special mention of Para-Archer, Sheetal Devi. She was described as a true champion and an inspiration to others. Her achievement at the Para Archery World Ranking Tournament has given the youth of the UT new dreams and aspirations, he said.
The Lt Governor also lauded the significant contribution of panchayats in conservation, rejuvenation and protection of water bodies in the UT.
“Mission Amrit Sarovar has witnessed enthusiastic response in all the Panchayats of Jammu Kashmir and it is also a vindication of our steadfast commitment to revive the water bodies. It is a symbol of resurgent J&K and strength of Jan-Bhagidari,” said the Lt Governor.
He impressed upon all panchayats to engage in healthy competition to build the most beautiful Amrit Sarovar. Three outstanding panchayats should be selected and honoured on Independence Day through online voting on MyGov J&K, he added
The Lt Governor congratulated the people of Jammu Kashmir for the successful conduct of the G20 meeting last month.
“We have received an overwhelming response, especially, from the youth regarding promotion of tourism,” he added.
He made a special mention of Budgam’s Arifa Ara, Javed Ahmed from Anantnag and Kishtwar’s Abhishek Sharma for their valuable suggestions in raising public awareness about environment-friendly products and promotion of plastic substitutes like jute bags, corn starch bags in market; strengthening of facilities for persons with disabilities at prominent tourist locations and promotion of adventure tourism and water sports.
He also shared the inputs received from Anantnag’s Shahid Hussain Rather, Mushtaq Ahmad Wani from Budgam and Abrar Mir from Doda pertaining to reforms in the fisheries sector and its impact on tourism, promotion of eco-tourism and generic medicines.
Speaking on the preparations made for Shri Amarnath ji Yatra starting from July1, the Lt Governor called for the active participation of every citizen.
“This pilgrimage is also a symbol of the welfare of humanity, upliftment of all sections of the society and exchange of new ideas. Local economy and employment opportunities are also linked to this Yatra,” he observed.
For ages, the entire society, followers of all sects, come together to welcome the devotees from different parts of the country. Active participation of all the citizens will definitely make this year's Yatra and festivity of culture and spirituality successful, added the Lt Governor.
He also called upon educational institutions, organisations, prominent personalities and all other stakeholders to make every section of society aware about the benefits of yoga and encourage them to adopt yoga as an internal part of their lives.
“On this Yoga Day, let us celebrate the sense of oneness with society and the world. Yoga helps to keep mind and body healthy, stress-free and inspires us to live a balanced and happy life,” said the Lt Governor.