Srinagar, Feb 25 : Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet Minister Satish Sharma on Wednesday said the Union Territory would not succumb to “forces within and outside the country” attempting to malign it, asserting that J&K is a “factory of tourism” and peace.
Addressing reporters at a tourism and sports event amid snowfall in the Valley, Sharma said Jammu and Kashmir remains one of the most beautiful destinations in the country and urged the media to showcase its positive image to the world.
“In this wonderful weather, you are sitting in the most beautiful location of India. There is no place more beautiful than this. You have to tell the world who we are. We don’t have a better state than this,” he said.
The minister claimed that certain “powers”, including from neighbouring countries, were trying to keep an eye on Jammu and Kashmir and disrupt its progress, but asserted that such attempts would fail.
“They are a factory of terrorism and we are a factory of tourism. We will not fall for their designs,” Sharma said, adding that the surge in tourist arrivals after the COVID-19 pandemic had demonstrated people’s faith in the region.
Referring to sports initiatives, Sharma said the government would review scheduling of events like the Khelo India Winter Games in view of changing weather patterns. “The technical team will decide for the next edition and dates will be announced after assessing snowfall conditions. Weather systems have changed globally and we must also focus on sustainability and environment protection,” he said.
He also hit out at the BJP over its criticism of the government on issues such as artificial snow and statehood, alleging that the party’s local leaders lacked the courage to raise key concerns.
On the restoration of statehood, Sharma said he hoped the Prime Minister would honour the commitment made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
“Never in modern history has a state been converted into a Union Territory in this manner. We are hopeful of a positive outcome. We cannot have two power centres. Restoration of statehood will bring stability and more employment opportunities,” he said.
The minister highlighted infrastructure and sports development initiatives, including IT parks, water sports facilities and promotion of skiing and other winter sports in different regions of the Union Territory.
Stressing communal harmony, Sharma said the people of Jammu and Kashmir have always upheld peace and hospitality. “We have to get rid of hatred. Development and progress are possible only when we work together,” he added.(KNS).
