Manoj Sinha: Large Parts of India Now Terrorism-Free

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha declared on Monday that large parts of India have freed themselves from terrorism, particularly highlighting significant improvements in the northeastern states. According to Sinha, local recruitment in terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir has dropped alarmingly, signaling a shift in security dynamics across the region.

While addressing the three-day Strategic Management Forum (SMF) Conference at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Jammu, Sinha noted that the ongoing fight against terrorism has received substantial support, resulting in a decrease in violence and extremism.

“Large parts of the country have been freed from terrorism. Except for a few pockets, most of the northeast is now terrorism-free. The threat of left-wing extremism and Naxalism, confined mainly to two or three districts, has been significantly minimized,” Sinha stated.

Specifically about Jammu and Kashmir, Sinha pointed out that no top commanders of terrorist organizations currently operate in the region. “Local recruitment into terrorism has seen a sharp decline. Hardly one or two youths are being recruited now,” he emphasized.

However, Sinha cautioned against the continuing threat posed by Pakistan, which he accused of attempting to push terrorists across the border. “Those infiltrating from across the border hide in dense forests and mountainous terrains. I assure you, they will be eliminated. They will not survive, no matter how long it takes,” he emphasized.

The Lieutenant Governor described the changing nature of terrorism, noting the involvement of educated and informed individuals in terror-related activities. He highlighted the need for collaborative efforts, stating that the fight against terrorism should not rely solely on security forces, especially in regions like Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, and Kerala. “Society and certain administrative branches must also contribute,” he insisted.

Sinha stressed the imperative to eradicate the divisive “insider-outsider” narrative, explaining that such notions hinder the country’s development. He articulated a vision for a long-term goal: Viksit Bharat by 2047. He urged policymakers and business leaders to gear up for channelling challenges and opportunities in a rapidly evolving landscape.

“Our focus should remain on macroeconomic stability, significant investment in education and health, and implementing digital tools alongside participatory governance,” Sinha noted. He praised the accelerating growth trajectory of India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. “Confidence among industrial leaders is at an all-time high, with various sectors including manufacturing and services competing globally,” he added.

Moreover, the Lieutenant Governor highlighted Jammu and Kashmir’s untapped economic potential, particularly its mining industry. “J&K has vast reserves of limestone, sapphire, lithium, and other minerals. With strategic planning, we can potentially generate an additional annual revenue of Rs 15,000 crore to Rs 20,000 crore in the next five to seven years,” he asserted.

Sinha emphasized the importance of maximizing the region’s hydropower sector and proposed amendments to the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) to align with evolving economic demands.

During the conference, Sinha also inaugurated the Basohli Painting Exhibition, celebrating the region’s cultural heritage. He lauded IIM Jammu and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) for promoting Basohli paintings, which represent a unique artistic legacy that he deemed precious for future generations.

The valedictory session saw attendance from notable figures including Prof B.S. Sahay, Director IIM Jammu, and R.K. Chaudhary, Chairman JERC J&K and Ladakh, among others. The event brought together academics, policymakers, industry leaders, artists, and students to contribute to a meaningful discourse on development and peace.