As the sun will rise over Kashmir on Thursday, Srinagar city will awaken to a spectacle of vibrant colours and festive fervour, all in anticipation of the historic visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Streets lined with banners and flags, buildings adorned with flowers and lights, and the air filled with the sounds of joyous cheers and enthusiastic chants, Srinagar presents a picture-perfect image of a city ready to welcome its esteemed guest.
The Dal Lake will shimmer under the morning sun, its waters will reflect the excitement that will resonate across the valley.
The Prime Minister’s visit holds immense significance for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, marking a new chapter in Kashmir’s journey towards peace, progress, and prosperity. It is a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to the development and welfare of the Kashmir, as well as a symbol of hope for a better future.
The enthusiasm of the people of Srinagar is palpable, as they eagerly await the Prime Minister’s arrival. From school children to senior citizens, from shopkeepers to farmers, everyone is gearing up to extend a warm welcome to the leader who has captured the nation’s imagination with his vision and determination.
The city’s administration has left no stone unturned in ensuring that the Prime Minister’s visit is a grand success. Elaborate security arrangements have been put in place to ensure the safety and security of all attendees
As Srinagar city prepares to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it sends out a message of unity, peace, and progress to the world. The people of Kashmir are ready to embrace the future with optimism and hope, confident in the knowledge that their aspirations for a better tomorrow are shared and supported by the highest echelons of government.
The city’s adornment won’t just be a display of decoration; it is a manifestation of the love, respect, and admiration that the people of Srinagar hold for Prime Minister.
In a significant shift from the norm, the Kashmir is experiencing a notable absence of hartals, or shutdowns. This development comes against the backdrop of the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, which granted special autonomous status to Jammu and Kashmir.
The absence of hartals is a welcome change for the residents of Kashmir, particularly students who have faced significant disruptions to their education in recent years. Hartals, which are often called by secessionist separatist groups have been a common feature of life in Kashmir, leading to frequent closures of schools, businesses, and public services. The resumption of normalcy in this regard is a positive development that promises stability and continuity for students and their families.
Earlier, during the visit of leaders, that included the Home Minister or the Prime Minister, has often been met with calls for a complete shutdown by secessionist groups.
The call for a shutdown during the visit of leaders was not a new development but rather a recurring pattern in Kashmir’s recent history.
The shutdowns called during these visits are not merely symbolic gestures but have real and significant impacts on the daily lives of the people of Kashmir. Schools, businesses, and public services often remain closed, disrupting normal life and causing inconvenience to the local population. The economic impact of these shutdowns was also considerable, with businesses suffering losses due to the forced closure.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tenure has been marked by a significant focus on Jammu and Kashmir, with several key policy decisions and initiatives aimed at addressing the longstanding issues.
From the abrogation of Article 370 to efforts towards development and peace, PM Modi’s approach to Kashmir has been multifaceted and impactful, shaping the J&K trajectory in significant ways.
One of the most significant moves made by PM Modi’s government was the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. This move, announced in August 2019, revoked the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370, effectively integrating J&K more closely with the rest of India.
In addition to the abrogation of Article 370, PM Modi’s government has also focused on development initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir. J&K has been a major beneficiary of central government schemes and projects, aimed at improving infrastructure, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. These efforts are seen as crucial for addressing the socio-economic challenges facing Union Territory and winning the hearts and minds of the local population.
PM Modi has also emphasized the importance of dialogue and engagement in addressing the issues in Kashmir. His government has made efforts to reach out to the people of Kashmir.
Despite these efforts, Kashmir continues to face challenges, including sporadic incidents of violence.
PM Modi’s approach to Kashmir has been characterized by a combination of bold policy decisions, development initiatives, and efforts towards dialogue and engagement. While these efforts have had some positive impact, the challenges facing Kashmir remain complex and deeply entrenched. As Kashmir continues to navigate its path forward, it is crucial for all stakeholders to work towards a peaceful future.
(The author is senior staffer Greater Kashmir)
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