Union Minister Jitendra Singh expressed on Thursday that the majority community in Kashmir might one day regret the forced exodus of Kashmiri Pandits. Speaking at an event, he stated that Kashmir remains incomplete without the Pandit community, whose culture has been instrumental in shaping the Valley’s heritage.
Singh emphasized that the revocation of Article 370 has led to notable positive developments in Jammu and Kashmir, and suggested that, despite initial concerns, many local residents, including Kashmiri Muslims, have quietly welcomed these changes.
“Kashmiri Pandits are integral to Kashmir’s identity,” Singh said, during the inauguration of the Mata Saraswati Auditorium at Gandhi Memorial College. The unique composite culture that has long defined Kashmir is missing without them.” He expressed his belief that the majority community would one day reflect on the loss and lament the departure of the Pandit population.
The minister observed that cultural values are fading over generations, remarking that the cohesive culture fostered by the coexistence of different communities is something Kashmiris may only fully recognize with time.
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In his address, Singh praised the government’s ongoing efforts in Jammu and Kashmir since Article 370 was repealed, noting that many in the region, including within the Kashmiri Muslim community, now see the benefits of this historic change.
Singh also highlighted the government’s focus on strengthening India’s education system through the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This initiative, he explained, is designed to offer students the freedom to choose educational paths that match their individual talents and interests, reducing pressures from parents or societal expectations.
He encouraged teachers to help students discover and cultivate their unique abilities, supporting them to contribute to the nation’s progress, particularly in fields such as science, technology, and innovation. Singh also noted that India’s strides in technology and start-ups now place the country on a global competitive platform.
Encouraging educational growth, he highlighted the importance of accessible learning resources, urging teachers to guide students in leveraging technology to advance their knowledge. He also encouraged the exploration of the Himalayan bio-resources, which he believes could significantly contribute to India’s economy. Singh announced that the government would be hosting start-up exhibitions nationwide, including an upcoming event in Srinagar, to spark interest in entrepreneurship and self-employment among young people.
