New Delhi, August 5: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35(A) on August 5, 2019, marked the beginning of a transformative phase for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, describing it as a milestone in the region's development and integration.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister said the past seven years have brought significant changes to the lives of people in the two Union Territories, highlighting improvements in infrastructure and greater opportunities in education, healthcare, entrepreneurship and sports.

He stated that the full implementation of the Constitution of India has ensured constitutional rights for all citizens, particularly benefiting women and historically marginalised communities who had been deprived of several protections and opportunities for decades.

PM Modi also noted that this year's August 5 holds added significance as the country observes the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee. He said Dr. Mookerjee's commitment to national unity continues to inspire generations and that his long-held vision was realised with the constitutional changes introduced on August 5, 2019.

Reiterating the Centre's commitment to the region, the Prime Minister said the government remains focused on accelerating the development of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh while creating opportunities for every citizen to fulfil their aspirations and contribute to the vision of a developed India.