Srinagar, Feb 26: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said the graduating students of the University of Kashmir are not just degree holders but “architects of a new Jammu and Kashmir,” urging them to define the future rather than wait for it to unfold.
Addressing the 21st Convocation of the University of Kashmir, Omar, described the historic campus at Naseem Bagh as a “sanctuary of wisdom” and said the gathering marked a moment of generational transition. “You are succeeding those who kept the flame of knowledge alive through the most testing times. You are the torchbearers,” he said.
Calling the occasion a “day of succession,” the Chief Minister encouraged students to reflect on their identity and responsibility in shaping J&K’s future. Quoting Kashmiri mystic poetess Laleshwari, he said education of the self begins after formal learning ends, asking graduates to define their role in the story of 2026.
In an emotional appeal, Omar paid tribute to parents and families for their sacrifices. Citing Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), he reminded students, “Your heaven lies under the feet of your mother,” and said every degree awarded belongs equally to the parents who supported their children through hardship.
The Chief Minister lauded the university faculty for mentoring students beyond textbooks, saying they have instilled discernment in an age of information overload. He added that the government and people of J&K owe them gratitude for shaping future leaders.
Referring to the recently presented 2026–27 Budget, Omar termed it a “fiscal compass” aimed at steering J&K towards economic vibrancy and participatory governance. “It is not merely a ledger of figures, but a declaration of intent to build a progressive and modern region,” he said.
Highlighting that more than 60 percent of nearly 60,000 degrees and medals were earned by women, the Chief Minister described it as a transformative milestone. He said the administration has shifted from women’s welfare to women-led development, citing the organisation of lakhs of women into self-help groups and promotion of entrepreneurship.
On tourism, Omar said while destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam remain key attractions, the government is expanding focus to border areas such as Keren, Gurez and Titwal. He emphasised sustainable growth, warning that environmental challenges like receding glaciers and changing winters require responsible planning.
Discussing agriculture and technology, he spoke about a “high-density revolution” in horticulture and called for integration of IT solutions such as real-time pest detection and traceability systems to connect Kashmiri produce with global markets. He termed it a vision combining “saffron and silicon.”
The Chief Minister also underlined the potential of digital infrastructure, saying J&K’s climate makes it suitable for green data centres and knowledge-based industries. “We want our youth to become job providers, not merely job seekers,” he said, adding that industrial policy reforms are being aligned to support research and innovation.
Addressing mental health concerns, Omar acknowledged the pressures faced by young people and urged graduates in psychology and social work to help normalise conversations around emotional wellbeing. “Success is not only about income; it is about a peaceful mind and a resilient heart,” he remarked.
Reiterating his commitment to transparent governance, the Chief Minister stressed meritocracy in recruitment and opportunity. “Whether you are the child of a labourer or a minister, your qualification must be your only currency,” he said.
Concluding his address, Omar urged students to carry the spirit of Kashmiriyat wherever life takes them. “Go anywhere in the world, but carry the fragrance of these chenars in your heart. Today, you are the light that will lead Jammu and Kashmir forward,” he said. (KNC)
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