Srinagar, May 14 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday inaugurated the ‘Shaurya Gatha’ Complex at SM Hill in Tangdhar area of Karnah in Kupwara district, aimed at promoting battlefield tourism, preserving military heritage and boosting development in border areas.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Sinha said the complex stands as a tribute to the valour and sacrifices of Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in defence of the nation.
“The dedication of our forces and people is the true strength of the nation. The Shaurya Gatha Complex stands as a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of Indian soldiers,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor said the initiative would create new opportunities for tourism, homestays, local crafts and youth entrepreneurship in the border region.
He lauded the Army, including Northern Command and Chinar Corps, along with engineers, workers and local residents for completing the project within a short span of time.
Sinha said Jammu and Kashmir was witnessing an era of peace, prosperity and development, while drawing a contrast with Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), which he said continued to suffer due to neglect and misgovernance.
“Jammu and Kashmir was, is and will always remain an integral part of India,” he asserted.
Highlighting ongoing development initiatives in border areas, the Lieutenant Governor said seven villages in Tangdhar-Karnah had been included under the Vibrant Village Programme to improve infrastructure, livelihoods and overall quality of life.
He also said the proposed Sadhna Tunnel would significantly improve all-weather connectivity, security and economic activity in the region by facilitating trade, healthcare, education and disaster response.
Sinha urged people from across the country to visit the Shaurya Gatha Complex and explore the offbeat destinations of Kupwara district.
The Lieutenant Governor also appreciated the Army’s contribution to the ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir’ campaign and expressed concern over attempts to push narcotics into the region through cross-border smuggling routes.
“Tangdhar remains a strategic location where our neighbour persistently attempts to escalate narco-smuggling activities,” he said, adding that enhanced infrastructure in the area would strengthen efforts against drug smuggling.
He called upon the police and security agencies to maintain strict vigilance to ensure that no illegal drugs enter the territory.
Among those present on the occasion were Pratik Sharma, Balbir Singh, Karnah MLA Javaid Ahmad Mirchal and senior officers from the Army, civil administration, police and security forces.(NVI)
