Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Thursday highlighted “significant progress” in women’s development and empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir and said the leadership of women in education and sporting achievements by young cricketers together reflect the progressive direction in which the youth of the Union Territory are shaping the future.
He also noted Jammu and Kashmir cricket team winning the Ranji Trophy for the first time.
Radhakrishnan was addressing a 250-member youth delegation from Jammu and Kashmir, participating in the ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs here.
The ‘Watan Ko Jano’ programme is an initiative by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Jammu and Kashmir Government, aimed at fostering national integration by providing the youth of the UT an opportunity to explore different parts of India.
Describing Jammu and Kashmir as a land of extraordinary scenic beauty, and rich culture, he said it has the potential to become a major global tourist destination.
Radhakrishnan said as opportunities expand in education, technology, tourism, and entrepreneurship, each young person has the potential to become a builder of a peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive future.
He urged them to believe in their abilities, remain connected to their roots, and work collectively towards making Jammu and Kashmir a symbol of harmony, growth, and inspiration for the nation.
The Vice President expressed happiness that students from Jammu and Kashmir are excelling in Civil Services, IIT, and IIM entrance examinations.
Interacting with the children, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has consistently shown a high level of sensitivity towards Jammu & Kashmir. He recalled that Modi had spent his first Diwali as Prime Minister with flood victims in the Kashmir Valley, reflecting his deep concern and commitment towards the people and youth of J&K.
The Minister further stated that the programme provides an important opportunity for the children to witness the development that has taken place over the past decade and to gain exposure to the country’s diverse socio-cultural and developmental landscape.
Highlighting the significance of the programme, the Minister said that initiatives like Watan Ko Jano provide valuable exposure to young minds by familiarising them with the country’s social and cultural diversity and strengthening their emotional connection with the nation. He noted that every year, thousands of children from Jammu & Kashmir visit different parts of the country under this initiative, gaining new experiences and broadening their perspectives.
The Union Minister emphasised that the youth are the torchbearers of the nation’s future and bear a significant responsibility in shaping the vision of a developed India. He expressed confidence that the children participating in the programme will contribute meaningfully to nation-building and carry forward the spirit of unity and national integration.
Referring to the changing landscape of Jammu & Kashmir, the Minister noted that the region has witnessed improvements in multiple sectors, including education, infrastructure and overall development. He said that the youth of Jammu & Kashmir today have access to greater opportunities and are excelling in fields such as civil services, higher education and corporate sectors, reflecting their growing aspirations and capabilities.
Encouraging the students, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that they have access to information, opportunities and platforms that can help them achieve their goals. He urged them to make the most of these opportunities, remain focused on their aspirations and contribute positively to society