The dreams of Jammu and Kashmir’s people are no longer prisoners of the past

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₹1,000 crore as special assistance for rehabilitation, signalling our government’s commitment to supporting the people during crises. I had the opportunity to meet people from different walks of life and there was one common thread in these interactions—the people not only wanted development, but they also wanted freedom from rampant corruption prevailing for decades. The same year, I decided not to mark Diwali in remembrance of those we lost in Jammu and Kashmir.

I also decided to be in Jammu and Kashmir on Diwali day. In order to strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s development journey further, we decided that our government ministers would frequently go there and interact with people directly. These frequent visits also played a crucial role in building goodwill in Jammu and Kashmir.

From May 2014 to March 2019, over 150 ministerial visits took place. This is a record in itself. The special package of 2015 was a significant step in addressing the developmental needs of Jammu and Kashmir.

It contained initiatives for infrastructure development, job creation, tourism promotion and support to the handicraft industry. We harnessed the power of sports in Jammu and Kashmir, recognizing its potential to ignite the dreams of the youth. Through sporting initiatives, we witnessed the transformational impact of athletic pursuits on their aspirations and futures.

Sporting venues were upgraded, training programmes were organized and coaches were made available. One of the most unique things was to encourage the setting up of local football clubs. The results were outstanding.