Srinagar, Feb 02: Describing Jammu and Kashmir as the “crown of India,” Cabinet minister Satish Sharma on Monday called for financial support to help the region flourish.
He said the region has faced extreme challenges in recent months, including unprecedented rainfall, war and the Pahalgam terror attack.
Speaking to reporters after the Assembly session in Jammu, Minister Sharma said J&K has witnessed the heaviest rainfall of this century, endured a war in the past seven months and also suffered the Pahalgam incident.
“If you say that J&K is the crown of India, then to make this crown shine, we need some financial support,” he said.
The minister also further said drug addiction remains one of the biggest challenges in the Union Territory and called for a collective effort to combat the menace.
“We need to fight this epidemic, this disease of drugs, whether it involves political figures, some police officials, or others. Many people are involved these days. When they are caught, they must face the law, with support from the community, religion and society,” he said.
Sharma highlighted other pressing issues, including unemployment and limited development resources, drawing a comparison with past parliamentary leadership: “During Sardar Manmohan Singh’s time, MPs used to bring significant funds for development. Today, resources are limited, but I hope Delhi will support J&K in the same way,” he said.
Hailing India’s diversity, unity and achievements, the minister said J&K’s youth and teams have the potential to excel in sports and other fields with proper leadership and support.
“Every community, every religion, every region contributes to India’s beauty. With the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, we will make great progress in sports and aim to be among the top in the country,” he said.
The minister also underscored the importance of collective action, law enforcement and national support to address social and developmental challenges in Jammu and Kashmir—(KNO)
