SRINAGAR: Manoj Sinha today inaugurated the ‘Shaurya Gatha’ Complex at SM Hill in Tangdhar, Karnah, in Kupwara district. The initiative marks a significant milestone in promoting battlefield tourism, heritage preservation, and border area development.
The Lieutenant Governor applauded the Northern Command, Chinar Corps, and all officers, soldiers, engineers, workers, and local residents for completing the prestigious project within a short span of time. He said the brave soldiers who laid down their lives defending the motherland should continue to inspire every Indian with their courage and sacrifice.
“The dedication of our forces and people is the true strength of the nation. The Shaurya Gatha Complex stands as a tribute to the valour and sacrifices of Indian soldiers. This initiative will create new opportunities for border tourism, homestays, local crafts, and youth entrepreneurship,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He also highlighted the stark contrast between development on this side of the Line of Control and the situation in illegally Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, stating that Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing an era of peace, progress, and prosperity, while PoJK continues to suffer from neglect and misgovernance. He reaffirmed that Jammu and Kashmir was, is, and will always remain an integral part of India.
“Jammu and Kashmir is moving forward on all fronts of development. There is renewed self-confidence among the people, and society is more prosperous and peaceful than ever before,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor reiterated the administration’s commitment to the development of border regions. He observed that the promotion of valour sites under the Bharat Rannbhoomi Darshan initiative would usher in economic growth and prosperity in the Tangdhar-Karnah region while showcasing its rich defence legacy and culture.
He said seven villages in Tangdhar and Karnah have been included under the Vibrant Village Programme to ensure better infrastructure, livelihood opportunities, and quality of life.
Highlighting the importance of the Sadhna Tunnel, the Lieutenant Governor said it would significantly improve connectivity, security, and economic activity in the region by providing all-weather access and facilitating trade, education, healthcare, and disaster response.
“I urge citizens across the country to visit the Shaurya Gatha Complex and explore the offbeat destinations of Kupwara,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also praised the Army for its contribution to the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir campaign.
“Tangdhar remains a strategic location where our neighbour continuously attempts to promote narco-smuggling activities. The development of an airport-like facility by the Army in the region will serve as a critical asset in our fight against drug smuggling,” he said.
He also called upon the police and security forces to maintain the highest level of alertness. “Our surveillance must be foolproof to ensure that no illegal drugs enter our territory,” he added. The Lieutenant Governor also expressed gratitude to the people, especially school students, for their unwavering support to the Nasha Mukt J&K campaign.
Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command; Lieutenant General Balbir Singh, GOC Chinar Corps; Javaid Ahmad Mirchal; senior Army officers; and officials from the civil administration, police, and security forces attended the inaugural ceremony.
