New Delhi, March 28, 2026 : Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Saturday said that sustained efforts over the past decade have significantly mainstreamed youth from Jammu and Kashmir, leading to a noticeable rise in their confidence, exposure, and aspirations.
He was interacting with participants of the 6th Kashmir Youth Exchange Programme “Watan Ko Jaano”, organised under the aegis of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Changing Aspirations & Opportunities
Dr. Singh highlighted that:
- 🎓 Youth from J&K are increasingly excelling in civil services and competitive exams
- ✈️ Participation in sectors like tourism, hospitality, and aviation is growing
- 🌍 Young people are now confidently exploring opportunities across India
He noted a shift from earlier hesitation to a more open, ambitious, and nationally integrated mindset among youth.
Vision & Transformation
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision since 2014, the Minister said focused development efforts in Jammu & Kashmir have:
- Bridged long-standing development gaps
- Enhanced mobility and exposure
- Strengthened national integration
Youth Voices & Experiences
Participants from districts like Pulwama, Bandipora, Anantnag and Kupwara shared their experiences of visiting:
- Parliament
- Legislative Assemblies
- Rashtrapati Bhavan
They said such exposure has strengthened their sense of belonging and participation in democracy.
Need for Better Infrastructure
While appreciating progress, participants also highlighted:
- Need for improved sports infrastructure
- Better access to coaching and facilities
The Minister assured continued efforts, citing improved transparency and investments, and referenced the recent success of the J&K cricket team in domestic competitions.
Way Forward
Dr. Singh emphasized that the transformation in J&K is part of a broader national mission to ensure inclusive development, adding that the rising aspirations of youth will play a key role in shaping India’s future.
The programme concluded with cultural performances, showcasing the rich heritage and unity of Jammu and Kashmir.
