Srinagar, Feb 26: Declaring that the future of Jammu and Kashmir will be shaped not by circumstance but by conviction, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday told graduating students of the University of Kashmir that they are “architects of a new J&K”, entrusted with carrying forward a region at a critical moment of transition.
Addressing the 21st Convocation at the historic Naseem Bagh campus, Omar framed the ceremony as more than an academic milestone, calling it a generational handover in which youth must convert education into leadership, innovation and responsibility. He urged graduates to define 2026 on their own terms, saying the Valley’s next chapter will be written by those willing to shape it rather than wait for it.
Calling the convocation a moment of transition, Omar said the graduates are stepping into 2026 with a responsibility to define their identity and contribution to society.
Referring to Kashmiri mystic poetess Laleshwari, he said that true education begins when formal instruction ends, and urged students to reflect deeply on the role they intend to play in shaping Jammu and Kashmir’s evolving narrative.
In a heartfelt segment of his address, the CM acknowledged the sacrifices of parents and families who supported students through years of study. Quoting a saying of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) that paradise lies under the feet of one’s mother, he said each degree conferred symbolises not just individual effort but the unwavering support of families.
Abdullah commended the faculty members of the university, adding that their mentorship extends beyond academics. In an era flooded with information, he said, teachers have helped students develop judgement, clarity and purpose. “The government and society remain indebted to educators who nurture future leadership,” he added.
Turning to governance and economic priorities, the Chief Minister referenced the recently presented 2026–27 Budget, describing it as a strategic framework designed to guide Jammu and Kashmir towards sustainable economic progress and inclusive governance. He said the document reflects a forward-looking commitment rather than a mere financial statement.
Speaking on gender participation, Abdullah said that over 60 per cent of nearly 60,000 degrees and medals were secured by women, calling it a landmark achievement.
He said the administration’s focus has shifted from welfare-centric policies to women-led development, citing the formation of self-help groups and the encouragement of entrepreneurship among women across the Union Territory.
On tourism, Omar said that while established destinations such as Gulmarg and Pahalgam continue to draw visitors, efforts are underway to promote lesser-explored border regions, including Keren, Gurez and Teetwal. He added that expansion must remain environmentally conscious, especially in light of changing weather patterns and shrinking glaciers.
Addressing agriculture and innovation, the Chief Minister spoke about advancing horticulture through high-density plantation models and the integration of digital tools such as real-time pest monitoring and supply-chain traceability. He described the vision as a blend of tradition and technology, connecting Kashmir’s agricultural heritage with modern IT solutions to access global markets.
Underlining the potential of digital infrastructure, Omar said that Jammu and Kashmir’s climate offers advantages for establishing green data centres and knowledge-driven industries.
Emphasising entrepreneurship, he said the goal is to empower young people to generate employment rather than solely depend on it. Industrial reforms, he added, are being aligned to promote research, innovation and investment.
The CM also addressed mental health challenges facing youth, acknowledging academic and societal pressures. He encouraged graduates in psychology and social sciences to help foster open dialogue around emotional well-being. Success, he remarked, should be measured not only in financial terms but also in inner peace and resilience.
Reaffirming his commitment to fairness in governance, Abdullah stressed that merit must remain the guiding principle in recruitment and opportunities. He said background or social standing should not determine success, asserting that qualification alone must define advancement.
Concluding his speech, the Chief Minister urged students to uphold the ethos of Kashmiriyat wherever their journeys take them. He encouraged them to remain connected to their roots while pursuing opportunities globally, saying the future of Jammu and Kashmir rests in their hands.
