Remarkable transformation post-2019: Sinha
Sustained parl engagement vital for J&K: Omar
Srinagar, Jun 23: The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, led by its Chairman Dr Shashi Tharoor, on Tuesday called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at Lok Bhavan here, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at Dachigam National Park, as part of its four-day study visit to the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
During the interaction, Dr Tharoor discussed the Committee’s engagements and meetings held during the visit, informing that members had visited border areas in Jammu and the Regional Passport Office yesterday, and held detailed interactions with senior Army officials in Srinagar today. Members also shared their observations and experiences.
The Lieutenant Governor spoke on the socio-economic transformation and developmental journey of Jammu and Kashmir over the past six years, highlighting significant improvement in the overall security environment and renewed optimism among the people.
“Jammu and Kashmir has undergone a remarkable transformation after August 2019, where normal life flows uninterrupted across the Union Territory, aspirations are soaring, and the dreams of its people are being realised,” the LG said. Sinha also spoke about various infrastructure and development projects being implemented across the Union Territory.
The 13-member Committee, undertaking the study tour to review strategic border security, foreign policy-related issues, and the overall situation in frontier regions, briefed the Chief Minister about the objectives of its visit and its engagements across Jammu and Kashmir. The Committee had earlier visited Jammu and arrived in Srinagar today as part of its programme to gain first-hand insights into border management, security preparedness, and developmental issues in border areas.
Welcoming the members, CM Abdullah appreciated the Committee’s visit to the region and underscored the importance of sustained engagement by Parliamentary Committees in understanding the aspirations, challenges, and developmental needs of Jammu and Kashmir. “Such interactions provide an opportunity for informed policy discussions and contribute to strengthening governance and institutional coordination,” he said.
Abdullah highlighted the significance of ensuring balanced development in border areas, with a focus on improving infrastructure, connectivity, public services, and livelihood opportunities.
Members of the Committee exchanged views with the Chief Minister on matters relating to border management, regional development, and issues of national importance connected with India’s external affairs.
