PM committed to development of Kashmir: Rijiju
Fayaz Bukhari
Srinagar, Apr 6: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today hoped that the Centre would extend all possible assistance to support the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially at a time when the region is looking forward to a new chapter of peace and prosperity.
Omar said that J&K has faced numerous challenges over the years but is now gradually emerging from them and emphasized that efforts are underway to ensure the region becomes an equal stakeholder in the country’s overall development.
The Chief Minister was speaking at Lok Samvardhan Parv, being held at the University of Kashmir from April 5 to 13 under the theme ‘Bhagidari se Bhagyodaya’.
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“J&K has faced a lot of problems in the past, but we are slowly emerging from those shadows. We want J&K to become a part and parcel of the country’s progress,” he added.
“Despite J&K not being a State Constitutionally, we are still of the firm belief that it’s a State,” Omar said.
The Chief Minister urged the Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju to help expedite clearance of key development proposals from the J&K, emphasizing that timely approval could greatly benefit the people of the region.
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“Wherever support is possible and wherever proposals from our side are pending approval, I humbly request that they be considered and approved so that people of Jammu and Kashmir can benefit,” he said.
“This programme has provided an opportunity for artisans and others from the region to exhibit their talent. Such platforms not only encourage participation but also strengthen the cultural fabric of the nation,” the Chief Minister said.
Omar acknowledged the challenges associated with Rijiju’s portfolio. “The portfolio of Rijiju sahib looks simple, but in fact, it’s a difficult one as people across the country are diverse, they have different religions, cultures…” he remarked.
“In our country, people have diverse ways of thinking, cooking, eating, and speaking. If you look at the stage here, you can see representation from every corner of the country – from North to South, from East to West,” Abdullah said.
The Chief Minister said that artisans in the region are facing serious challenges, including lack of market access, limited skill development opportunities, and difficulties in preparing the next generation to carry forward traditional crafts, urging the Central Government to support them through focused schemes and initiatives.
Omar said the event would provide artisans from Jammu and Kashmir – whether from handicrafts or culinary backgrounds – an opportunity to showcase their skills and creativity to a larger audience.
He hoped that the Centre would support skill upgrading and training for artisans in the region. “We may not physically be a State anymore, but mentally we consider ourselves one. This State has suffered a lot. We want Jammu and Kashmir to be part of the country’s development story,” he added.
Responding to the Chief Minister’s requests, the Union Minister assured full support from the Centre, saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed to the development of Kashmir. “The Chief Minister has shared his concerns and suggestions with us. I have assured him that we will extend all possible support,” he said.
Rijiju said the festival aims to generate employment opportunities for local youth by promoting Kashmir’s traditional arts, crafts, and products like pashmina shawls. “There is a huge market across India. We will help artisans connect with it and ensure their products get the recognition and market access they deserve,” he added.
The Minister said that people are being misled over the Waqf Amendment Bill and emphasized that the legislation will be hugely beneficial for common Muslims.
Rijiju said Muslims have donated Waqf properties in the name of God, which makes them sacred and meant for charitable, pious, and religious purposes. “It is for charitable, pious, and religious purposes. No one can misuse it. That is why we have made a law,” he said.
The Minister said Waqf properties should be used properly, and for the purpose for which they have been created. “In the name of Allah, you dedicate Waqf. And if someone misuses it, that misuse should be corrected. That is why we have done this work. Some people are misguiding others. It is not like that,” he said.
He emphasized that the Waqf Amendment Bill will be useful for common Muslims. “The purpose for which Waqf property is created should be fulfilled. There are Waqf properties worth millions of crores in India. Many people are misusing them, which is not good for the poor. This is not right. That is why we are doing this work,” he said.
Rijiju added that proper management of Waqf properties will benefit millions of poor Muslims across India. “Until we fulfill our goal, we will continue our efforts – whether it is for women or for other purposes – the Waqf property should be used for the purpose it was created. This is our commitment,” he said.
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