SRINAGAR: Union Home Minister Amit Shah affirmed Indiaโs deep historical and cultural connection with Kashmir, spanning over a millennium, at the launch of the book โJammu Kashmir & Ladakh Through the Ages: A Visual Narrative of Continuities and Linkagesโ in New Delhi.
โThe book provides irrefutable evidence of Indiaโs cultural unity, showcasing that the traditions, languages, scripts, philosophies, art, and trade of India have existed in Kashmir for over a thousand years,โ Shah stated.
He reiterated Kashmirโs inseparability from India, saying, โNo law or article can alter this truth. Attempts to sever this connection have always failed.โ
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Highlighting the bookโs revelations, Shah debunked myths about Indiaโs disunity, asserting that Indiaโs unique identity is rooted in its geo-cultural heritage rather than geopolitical boundaries. โFrom Kashmir to Kanyakumari, cultural bonds unite this nation,โ he emphasized.
Shah criticized distortions in the history of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, accusing narrow perspectives of misleading narratives. โIndiaโs history should be presented through the lens of its millennia-old heritage, backed by evidence and pride,โ he urged.
The book also explores the cultural ties between Kashmir, Ladakh, Shaivism, and Buddhism, documenting traditions like the journey of Buddhism through Kashmir and the regionโs role in shaping Buddhist teachings.
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On the abrogation of Article 370, Shah highlighted its transformative impact, including a 70% drop in terrorist incidents and record-breaking tourism, with over 2.11 crore visitors in 2023. โKashmir now thrives with new infrastructure, including the worldโs highest rail arch bridge, premier educational institutions, and robust telecom networks,โ he said.
Shah celebrated the regionโs renewed democratic spirit, citing record electoral participation and the active role of panchayat representatives. โKashmir has embraced democracy and development, reclaiming its rightful place in Indiaโs progress,โ he remarked.
The Home Minister concluded by praising Prime Minister Narendra Modiโs vision, which has driven both development and cultural revival in Kashmir. He expressed confidence in restoring the regionโs ancient glory, stating, โKashmir remains the soul of India, inseparable and eternal.โ
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and historian Prof. Raghuvendra Tanwar also attended the event, lauding the comprehensive documentation of the regionโs heritage.
