SRINAGAR, June 13, 2026 : Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday urged members of the Kashmiri Pandit community to establish industries, academic institutions, cultural centres, and enterprises in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that such initiatives would preserve their rich heritage while creating opportunities for future generations.
Addressing a gathering organized by overseas Kashmiri Pandits in Srinagar, the Lieutenant Governor described the occasion as a historic moment of transformation and renewal, highlighting the growing confidence of the community in the changing landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.
“A moment of transformation is here. Those once uprooted from their homeland are returning, and this homecoming is the truest victory. The presence of business leaders, corporate heads, technology entrepreneurs, and cultural icons reflects confidence in the peace, stability, and development of Jammu and Kashmir,” Sinha said.
Paying tribute to the resilience of the Kashmiri Pandit community, the Lieutenant Governor said their journey has been marked by immense suffering, displacement, and struggle, yet they chose to rebuild their lives with determination and dignity.
“The Kashmiri Pandit community’s journey has been scarred by genocide, exile, and hardship. The world once witnessed their wounds; today it witnesses their triumph. They refused to be defined by pain and instead transformed adversity into strength,” he remarked.
Sinha said the event not only celebrated the patience, perseverance, and achievements of the community but also laid the foundation for their greater participation in the future growth and development of Jammu and Kashmir.
Emphasizing the need for increased involvement of the community in various sectors, he said their contribution is essential in areas such as industry, education, arts, culture, spirituality, innovation, and nation-building.
“I believe the true measure of life lies in what we give back to society, the hope we inspire, and the positive change we leave behind. That is the essence of meaningful service and the legacy that continues to guide future generations,” he said.
Recalling the tragic events of the 1990s, Sinha said the world witnessed the immense suffering endured by Kashmiri Pandits, who were forced to leave their homes and live in exile within their own country.
“Faced with unimaginable challenges, the community had two choices—despair or rebuilding. They chose creation, resilience, and selfless service. Hardship did not break their spirit, nor did suffering silence their ambitions. Instead, they built industries, founded institutions, drove innovation, and earned global respect,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor praised the community’s achievements across various fields, including technology, finance, medicine, education, arts, entrepreneurship, and public service.
“Today, the world recognizes and honours the talent, leadership, and contributions of the Kashmiri Pandit community. Their excellence has shaped global industries, academic institutions, and public policy,” he added.
Sinha further stated that the discussions held during the conclave on establishing industries, institutions, and economic partnerships in Jammu and Kashmir represent a roadmap for cultural revival, economic empowerment, and community restoration.
Describing the event as a sign of renewed hope, he said it reflects the reconstruction and revival of the community’s ancient glory and heritage.
“The return of the Kashmiri Pandit community reflects the emergence of a new Jammu and Kashmir after 2019. Their contribution towards building a developed India will be significant, and they will play a vital role in the nation’s growth story,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The event witnessed participation from prominent members of the global Kashmiri Pandit diaspora, entrepreneurs, professionals, scholars, and cultural leaders who discussed avenues for investment, community engagement, heritage preservation, and sustainable development in Jammu and Kashmir.
