PM Modi announces upcoming J&K elections, statehood restoration

SRINAGAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir today, marking his first trip to the union territory since assuming office for the third consecutive term. During his visit on June 20, PM Modi launched developmental projects worth over ₹1,800 crore and participated in the International Yoga Day 2024 event on Friday.

On Thursday, PM Modi attended the ‘Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K’ event at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar.

The Prime Minister will address the gathering at the 10th International Day of Yoga event at SKICC on June 21 at around 6.30 AM and will participate in the CYP Yoga session thereafter.

The Prime Minister will also inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for multiple development projects in Jammu and Kashmir valued at over ₹1,500 crore. Additionally, he will launch the Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP) worth ₹1,800 crore.

Security measures across Jammu and Kashmir have been intensified ahead of the Prime Minister’s two days visit. Security forces are deployed in strength across Srinagar City, and roads leading to the SKICC have been sealed to ensure a peaceful visit. Over 7,000 participants are expected to join PM Modi in performing Yoga on the banks of the picturesque Dal Lake on Friday.

Addressing the people of Jammu and Kashmir today, PM Modi announced the initiation of preparations for Assembly elections, promising that the day is not far when the region will elect a new government. He emphasized the significance of local representation in solving problems and improving governance.

During his address in Srinagar, PM Modi stated, “Today, 84 major developmental projects valued at more than ₹1,500 crores were inaugurated here. Projects related to the agriculture sector worth ₹1,800 crore were inaugurated. New national highways and expressways are being constructed here. Every Indian feels proud when they see pictures of the world’s highest bridge on the river Chenab.”

He further remarked, “Wall of Article 370 collapsed and fruits of Constitution ensured in JK; today Indian Constitution has truly been implemented in JK.” He highlighted the positive changes observed in Jammu & Kashmir as a result of the government’s work over the last decade.

Concluding his speech, PM Modi said, “An aspirational society has only one parameter – performance. The country saw the performance and it is the result of this performance that the government has got a chance for the third time. Our government performs and delivers results. Forming the government for the third time has given a message of stability to the world.”