Says terrorism ‘greatest enemy’ of people, creates hatred, weakens bonds among them
Srinagar, Nov 12: Describing terrorism as the “greatest enemy of the people,” Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday called on the citizens to cooperate with security forces and share information about terrorist activities.
Addressing the Valedictory session of Foundation Day Celebrations of Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST) here in South Kashmir, LG Sinha said, “Terrorism remains the biggest threat to peace, progress, and the very fabric of society.”
He said that terrorism has for decades fuelled hatred and division among communities, weakening social bonds and inflicting immense suffering. “Terrorism creates hatred among the people; it also weakens the bonds among them,” he said.
Paying tributes to the victims of the November 10 Red Fort terror attack in New Delhi, the LG said that the menace of terrorism over the past three decades has ruined countless young lives. “The terrorists and their ecosystem have been the biggest enemies of youth in J&K. They destroyed their dreams and aspirations,” he said.
LG Sinha, however, expressed optimism that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir are now shaping a new future for themselves through hard work and determination. “Our youth and young professionals are fulfilling their dreams and achieving their aspirations. But our neighboring country and some of their terrorist elements sitting here are trying to disrupt this progress. We must be vigilant against such an ecosystem and work together to foil their efforts,” he said.
LG Sinha called on the people to cooperate with security forces and share information about terrorist activities. “During the past five to six years, people have tasted the dividends of peace, and the number of stakeholders in peace has increased. It is the collective responsibility of all to ensure that peace remains intact and disruptive elements are kept at bay,” he said.
Referring to the massive investment in the last 5-6 years in human capital in Jammu and Kashmir, LG Sinha said, “We have created massive infrastructure in 5 years and now young professionals must focus on development strategies to change J&K’s fortunes.”
The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the transformation of IUST since 2021 and significant milestones achieved by the University in enrolment, startups incubation, sustainability, research and innovation.
“Academic programmes increased from 41 to 90 between 2021 and 2025, offering interdisciplinary and cutting-edge courses like AI, Robotics, Design Your Own Degree, Space Technology, Data Sciences, Apprenticeship based UG level Skill courses,” he added.
“Applications in multiple disciplines are up from 3,000 in 2021 to 7,600 in 2025, with increased diversity from across J&K and beyond,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He said that before 2021, external funding of IUST for research was merely Rs. 2 crore annually. In 4 years, more than Rs. 69 crore external funding was achieved for research.
“From a ‘zero’ start-up in 2021, the University has grown to incubate 93 start-ups in the last four years, hosted over 225 incubatees, and nurtured award-winning innovations in renewable energy, healthcare, and IT. Thirty two patents granted, 77 patents have been published, 33 more filed; additionally, two faculty ranked among top Indian scientists in their field. It is a matter of pride for IUST,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor directed the IUST for research innovation in developing low-cost energy resilient houses. He also asked the University to look into the ways for effective reuse of road and building construction material and promotion of cold-mix technology for more durable roads.
Showcase JK’s Journey of peace: LG to film makers
Srinagar, Nov 12: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday urged filmmakers to portray Jammu and Kashmir’s transformation from decades of turmoil to an era of peace and progress, emphasizing that the region’s stability is the result of immense sacrifices by security forces and collective public resolve.
Speaking at the inauguration of the International Film Festival at Tagore Hall in Srinagar, LG Sinha paid tribute to the victims of the recent Lal Qila blast, saying terrorism not only kills innocent people but also destroys the dreams and aspirations of youth. “J&K has reached a peaceful atmosphere after years of sacrifice and persistent efforts by the Army, Police, and other security forces. It is our duty to preserve this peace and not let enemies derail our progress,” he said.
He asserted that terrorism must be completely eradicated, including those who aid and abet it. “Lasting peace demands that we eliminate every single terrorist and hold accountable those who support them,” the LG added.
Addressing filmmakers, Sinha urged them to highlight J&K’s inspiring story of transformation. “For years, our land lived under the shadow of violence. Now, I invite the film fraternity to narrate how J&K is emerging from darkness into light,” he said, encouraging more filmmakers to join in this effort.
He lauded the growth of the International Film Festival of Srinagar (TIFFS), which this year received more than 750 films from 50 countries. “Four years ago, the festival was like a child learning to walk—today it is running,” he remarked, congratulating the organizers for their success.
Describing regional cinema as a powerful bridge connecting India’s diverse cultures, LG Sinha said it strengthens the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat. “Cinema mirrors our cultural richness—from Srinagar to Kanyakumari—and unites people through shared heritage,” he observed.
Highlighting the success of the J&K Film Policy, Sinha said over 300 films and web series have already been shot in the region, generating jobs and boosting the local economy. “We have made J&K a filmmaker-friendly destination by removing old barriers and simplifying procedures. The message is clear—J&K is ready to contribute to India’s creative economy,” he said.
He noted that India’s film industry, now the fifth largest globally, is growing rapidly and that J&K will play an important role in its cultural expansion. Cinema, he said, goes beyond entertainment—it can spread awareness, foster emotional connections, and reshape mindsets.
The 4th edition of TIFFS will screen 20 short films, six feature films, and four documentaries from countries including India, Poland, Russia, Sri Lanka, France, Germany, Turkey, and the USA. The three-day event celebrates cinema that bridges cultures and showcases J&K’s artistic resurgence, reaffirming its position as a global platform for creative exchange.
