Pakistani Designs Thwarted Again, LG Hails Army After Operation Mahadev

SRINAGAR: Expressing gratitude to the Indian Army, Paramilitary Forces, and Jammu and Kashmir Police for successfully carrying out Operation Mahadev, in which three Pakistani militants involved in the April 22 Pahalgam attack were killed in the Dachigam forest area in Srinagar, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday said that all nefarious designs of Pakistan will be thwarted.

Speaking at a function, Kashur Riwaaj 2025, a mega event celebrating Kashmir’s Culture, here in North Kashmir, LG Sinha said, “On behalf of the entire nation and the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, I extend my deepest appreciation to our brave security personnel. Their courage and commitment have once again foiled Pakistan’s nefarious designs to create unrest in Kashmir.”

Pertinently, the April 22 attack in Pahalgam had claimed the lives of 26 civilians, mostly tourists, and was widely condemned as an attempt to disrupt Kashmir’s peace and economic recovery. With the elimination of the perpetrators, the LG affirmed that the day is not far when Jammu and Kashmir will be completely free from the scourge of terrorism.

“For decades, Pakistan has been trying to destabilise Kashmir through terror. But our forces have given a clear message through Operation Mahadev and Operation Sindoor—that terrorism will not be tolerated and will be given a befitting reply. By targeting terror camps deep inside Pakistan, the Indian Army has shown its readiness and capability to strike at the roots of terror anywhere,” the LG said.

He also acknowledged the long-standing role of the Chinar Corps in engaging with the people of the region and promoting initiatives like border tourism and youth outreach programmes. “The Army is not just a security provider but a vital partner in development. Their consistent efforts to build trust with locals and provide opportunities to the youth are commendable,” LG Sinha remarked.

Extending his heartiest congratulations to 20,000 youth of Baramulla for making history and securing world record title, the LG urged the younger generation to reject violence and focus on building a peaceful and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir. “Jammu and Kashmir has always been a knowledge hub. The administration is continuously working to link youth with progressive government schemes. Our whole-of-government approach ensures that the young minds of this region are nurtured and empowered,” he said.

He called upon the youth to utilise their energy in a positive direction and take a stand against the twin threats of terrorism and drug abuse. “Terrorism and drugs are the biggest enemies of our society. The youth must rise against the disruptive elements that promote violence or drug peddling. You cannot live in the past; you must think about the future and your responsibility to make Jammu and Kashmir stronger,” he urged.

“Rise above language, sect, and religion and collectively counter those who spread public unrest. There are disturbing elements in society who attempt to justify terrorism and the killing of innocent lives and try to hold hostage the aspirations and dreams of lakhs of youth. Such individuals need to be unmasked,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He sought the cooperation of the young generation in the fight against drug menace and to bring the youth who have fallen prey to drug addiction back into the mainstream.

Highlighting that peace is the foundation of development, LG Sinha said, “We are committed to ensuring a peaceful, secure, and progressive future for our youth. The administration stands shoulder to shoulder with them in their journey towards excellence. The enemies of peace have no place in our land.”

He said, “By coming together for Ladishah and Calligraphy, you have set a new world record. This accomplishment will serve as an inspiration across the sections of society to reconnect with their heritage, embrace their culture, and uphold their values,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He also lauded the Indian Army and District Administration Baramulla for the commendable endeavour.

“I salute the dedication and commitment of our Army. They are not only safeguarding the nation’s unity and integrity but also actively serving as a custodian of this region’s vibrant cultural heritage and consistently striving to fulfil the dreams and aspirations of our youth.

Unity in diversity is a hallmark of India’s great culture. The Indian Army has consistently worked to harness this power for societal benefit, creating opportunities for youth to strengthen national unity through literature, music, art, and sports,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor reiterated the commitment of Government of India and J&K Administration, under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to empower youth of Jammu and Kashmir. With a whole-of-government approach, we are working to align the aspirations of youth of Jammu Kashmir with the nation’s aspirations, he said.

“Hopes and dreams of youth can only flourish in a peaceful environment. Pakistan-backed terrorism and separatism had robbed Jammu and Kashmir of peace, progress, and the youth’s aspirations. Now, Jammu and Kashmir is rapidly moving forward,” the Lieutenant Governor further said.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor announced Guru-Shishya Parampara programme of Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages and Calligraphy course in collaboration of JKAACL with University of Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages with University of Kashmir is going to launch a 6-month and one-year Certificate/Diploma course in Calligraphy.

Under the JKAACL’s Guru-Shishya Parampara programme, Gurus to train 4–8 shishyas in extinct arts and will receive Rs 10,000 per month. The Shishyas will also get Rs 5,000 per month, while assistants will receive Rs 7,500 per month.

Principal Secretary Culture, Brij Mohan Sharma; GOC 19 Infantry Division, Major General Paranvir Singh Punia; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri; DIG North Kashmir, Maqsood-Ul-Zaman; Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa; senior officials of Security Forces, Civil and Police Administration; office bearers of Universal Record Forum, artists, prominent citizens and youth in large number were present. (KNO)